Stays
1750-1760
Silk and suede
Museum purchase
Object number2016.8.2
Stays (later known as corsets) were designed to narrow the wearer’s waist and push up the bust. During the 18th century, stays were largely worn by women and girls of the elite and were seen as a sign of status. They were constructed with strips of hard material called “boning” at the front, back, and sides.
DescriptionStays in silk drouget brocade with a small floral design in dusty pink, beige, brown, burgundy red and green; silk and suede trim; burgundy red lacesCollections
Exhibitions