The S-Bend Corset of Edwardian Times

Today some fashion history:

This corset is a beautiful example of the S-bend silhouette of the Edwardian era, moving from the tiny waists and hourglass of the Victorian era into one that focused on creating the signature ‘pigeon-breasted’ silhouette of that era. As well as bringing in the waist with a corset to achieve this shape, another type of garment called a corset cover would often help to enhance the bust by means of ruffles or extra brassiere-like support. Another typically Edwardian feature of this piece is the long line - extending down over the hips - and attached garter straps.
The corset was purchased at the well-known Parisian department store Au Bon Marché in 1904. The front-lacing, as opposed to the usual back lacing, is highly unusual for this period. It became a more popular feature for corsets later in the 20th century, as it allowed a woman to put on and adjust the corset by herself.