This trend wasn’t just about aesthetics, though. It was downright dangerous. The chill from wearing these wet muslin dresses was linked to health issues like pneumonia.
These fashion statements were more like a form of medieval torture, cinching in women’s waists to unnaturally small sizes in the name of an “hourglass figure.”
Introduced by King Louis XIII of France, who was trying to cover his balding head (talk about setting trends under pressure), they quickly became a fashion must-have among European aristocracy. The bigger the better, was the rule of thumb.
With their long, flowing sleeves and tight fit from waist to hips, bliauts were the epitome of “extra” long before the term was coined.
Engineered to give the gals a uniquely torpedo-shaped appearance, bullet bras shot straight to fame in the 1950s. From Hollywood starlets to everyday women, the bullet bra was a must-have item in every lady’s arsenal.
These bite-sized late 2010s accessories, so small they could make a Barbie doll jealous, provide an impressive lesson in impracticality.
Yet, these skirt supporters, much like a peacock’s plumage, were all about making a statement – the bigger the skirt, the higher the status.
Ladies of the late 19th century strutted around with these oversized pads strapped onto their backsides – talk about a fashion statement!