As a modern corset wearer I can say that what is often considered extremely
small when a garment is held up or in a photograph is not so for the wearer.
Until recently I had a 22" waist and would generally lace down to 19"
(measurements I'm told match those of Scarlet O'Hara in the book).  This was
very comfortable especially if I ate small portions of heavy food before
dressing.  In public however many women were shocked at the size of my waist
and sure that I was hurting myself or in great discomfort.  An assumption
that I think is applied to the historic images of women in corsets.  When I
have assistance in dressing I do have to hold on a bed post or mantle or I
go flying when the laces are pulled.  When lacing myself it is easiest if I
can hook the laces to a door knob or strong hook and walk forward pulling
the laces closed as I go.  These methods were like also used by women in the
19th century if for no other reason than practicality.

-Alisa Swindell

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