What is the difference between stays and corsets?

Written by: Laraib Javed

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Time to read 7 min

Are you unsure about the difference between stays and corsets? A lot of people use these words interchangeably, but they actually refer to two different types of clothing.


Stays were an early version of corsets. Back in the 1700s, people wore stays as a foundation garment to shape and support the upper body. Stays were designed to gently compress the body and create a smooth outline, but they weren't as restrictive as later corset designs.


Corsets, on the other hand, became very popular in the 1800s. Corsets were known for their tight lacing, which cinched the waist to create an hourglass shape. Corsets were often made with stiff materials like whalebone or steel. People wore corsets not just for fashion, but also to provide support and improve their posture.


By understanding the difference between stays and corsets, you can learn more about the history of these garments and how they influenced fashion and femininity over time. Let's take a closer look at the unique features that set stays and corsets apart.

Historical Background of Stays and Corsets

The origins of stays and corsets can be traced back centuries, with each Shapewear playing a significant role in the evolution of fashion and femininity.

Stays, the foundation to modern corsets, emerged in the late 16th or early 17th century and were commonly worn in England until the end of the 18th century. These fully boned laced bodices were designed to support and shape the upper body, creating an inverted cone-like silhouette.


The term "stays" likely derived from the French word "estayer," meaning "to support," as this was the primary function of these garments. Stays were seen as more informal wear, in contrast to the more structured and ornate garments with built-in boning, such as the robe de cour.


If we talk about corsets, they gained popularity in the 16th century, initially for medical reasons, but soon became a fashion statement among women of all social classes. The term "corset" comes from the French word "corps," meaning "body," and the shapewear was first used in France in the 1770s.

Differences in Construction and Materials

The construction and materials used in stays and corsets are the primary factors that distinguish these two garments.


Stays were typically made with multiple layers of fabric, such as linen or wool, and reinforced with boning made from materials like whalebone, cane, or steel. The boning was arranged vertically, providing support and structure to the torso.


Related: Boning In corsets: Which types of Bones in corset is best?


Corsets, on the other hand, were often constructed with an inner layer of sturdy cloth, such as cotton or linen, and an outer layer of decorative fabric, such as silk, satin, leather or brocade. 


The boning in corsets was typically arranged horizontally, with the goal of cinching the waist and creating an hourglass figure. Corsets also often featured lacing at the back, for a comfortable fit and more relaxed for wearing long hours.

Purpose and Function of Stays

Stays were primarily designed to provide support and structure to the upper body, rather than to dramatically alter the wearer's shape. 


Their main function was to raise and support the bust, creating a solid foundation for the garments worn over them. Stays were seen as a practical and necessary undergarment, commonly worn by women of all social classes, even in more casual, everyday settings.


In England, the use of stays was more widespread than in France, where the peasantry often went without them. Even among the French aristocracy, stays were only mandatory at formal court functions. A French lady could be excused from wearing them if her health made it inadvisable to do so.


stays were an essential undergarment that provided structured support for the upper body, rather than being primarily used to radically reshape the wearer's form. 


Their practical purpose and widespread use differed somewhat between England and France, especially among the lower and upper classes.

Purpose and Function of Corsets

The main purpose of a corset was to shape and support the body, creating a temporary hourglass figure. Corsets were designed to flatten the stomach, make the bust look larger, and emphasize the curves of the hips and waist, giving the wearer an hourglass figure.


This was done by using rigid boning, usually made of whalebone or steel, sewn into the fabric of the corset. The corset could be tightened using lacing at the back, allowing the wearer to adjust the level of shaping and compression.


Corsets were used not just for fashion, but also sometimes for medical reasons, like providing support for the lower back. The design and construction of corsets changed over time, with differences in the placement and type of boning, as well as the overall shape they created.


But the core purpose of shaping and supporting the torso remained consistent when corsets were a standard part of women's wardrobes for centuries.

Cultural and Societal Influences on Stays and Corsets


The use of stays and corsets was heavily influenced by cultural and societal norms. In England, the wearing of stays was more common, with even the peasants often owning at least one pair, which they wore constantly without washing. 


In contrast, in France, the peasantry generally did not wear stays, and even among the aristocracy, their use was more limited to formal court functions.


The moral and social implications of wearing stays or corsets were also significant. A woman wearing a softer, less structured bodice known as "jumps" was seen as less impeccably dressed and potentially less morally upright than one wearing stays or a corset. 


The tight lacing and restrictive nature of corsets were viewed as a way to maintain a woman's modesty and propriety.

Modern-day Interpretations and Usage of Stays and Corsets


These days, the words "stays" and "corsets" are often used to mean the same thing. The difference between the two isn't always clear.


However, people who study historical clothing still use the term "stays" when talking about the boned undergarments worn in the 17th and 18th centuries. "Corset" is the more common term for the more structured and tight-fitting garments from the 19th and early 20th centuries.


Nowadays, people wear stays and corsets for all kinds of reasons. Some wear them for historical reenactments or costumes. Others wear them as a fashion statement or a way to express themselves and their femininity.


Whether it's for the look, self-expression, or exploring identity, the choice to wear these garments can mean different things to different people.

Choosing Between Stays and Corsets


When selecting between stays and corsets it's important to consider following points.


Comfort and Flexibility


Corsets are generally more comfortable and flexible than the heavily boned stays. While stays create a very rigid, conical shape, corsets allow for more natural movement and a softer silhouette. This makes corsets a more practical choice for everyday wear.


Related: Are corsets uncomfortable: Science Based Guide


Ease of Use


Corsets are typically easier to put on and take off compared to the complex lacing systems of stays. The front-fastening design of many corsets allows the wearer to dress themselves, rather than requiring assistance.


Structured Support


Corsets can provide a similar level of support and shaping as stays, but with less restrictive boning. The structured yet supple nature of corsets means they can still create an elegant, hourglass figure without being as constricting. This makes them a more comfortable and wearable option, especially for longer periods.


Style and Diversity


The evolution of corset design has resulted in a wider range of styles and materials compared to traditional stays. Modern corsets come in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics, allowing for greater personal expression and fashion flexibility. This diversity caters to individual preferences and occasions more effectively than the more limited stays.


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Ultimately, the choice between stays and corsets comes down to personal preference. Stays offer a more relaxed, historical look, while Modern corsets provide more hourglass and support. Consider your style, comfort needs, and the overall silhouette you wish to achieve when deciding which is right for you.

Checkout our Comfortable Modern Corsets

Conclusion: difference between stays and corsets


Both stays and corsets have shaped fashion over the centuries, but corsets had a particularly significant impact. Popular in the 19th century, corsets provided structured support, improved posture, and created the iconic hourglass figure. Made from sturdy materials like whalebone and often decorated with luxurious fabrics, corsets were both functional and fashionable.


Compared to the more flexible stays, corsets offered more dramatic shaping and support for the torso. This allowed women to achieve the highly coveted hourglass silhouette that was fashionable at the time.


Today, corsets continue to be popular in fashion and costume design, appreciated for their versatility and visual appeal. The lasting influence of corsets demonstrates how they have adapted to suit modern trends and personal expression. Even as fashion has evolved, the corset's impact on the history of style remains notable.