Defect in Form: Evils of Tight Lacing (a.k.a. Corsets), 1897

Despite the voice of reason from scientists of the day, medical doctors, dress reformers, nineteenth century women continued to cling to advertisements claiming health depended upon corsets and laced tightly to achieve the beautiful figure they desired. Advertisements didn't promote mere beauty--they went so far as to claim health. A newspaper article published in Chicago Daily Tribune of Chicago, Illinois, on April 24, 1897 spoke of Roentgen's Light--X-rays--and the malformation caused by lacing. Today, the argument seems sound, prudent, and almost laughable that anyone fell for corsets.