3.1.1 Corsets emphasize the shape of the body. On the one hand, the woman in the corset was modest as it covered most parts of the body, rarely exposing cleavage. On the other hand, because corsets “enhance the shape of the body” (Steele, 2001), they also draw attention to bodily aspects of the breast and waist area. This revealed a tension between attractiveness and decency (Steele, 2001). More importantly, the corset became an “eroticized item of underwear” (Workman, 2003) that could be disturbing and even worse than nudity because it caused a man to fantasize lustful thoughts (Steele, 2001).3.1.2 Sexual Confidence. Schiermer (2010) stated that femininity has sparked a new form of confidence in women, so it should be viewed positively. Steele (2001) agrees with Schiermer (2010) stating that this sense of confidence, if used in the right way, could be a symbol of female empowerment. In contrast, Hustvdet (2006) pointed out that corsets were a way to “promote the idea that a woman's body was fundamentally different from a man's.” Fields' (1999) study revealed that guys with "heavy figures" were willing to pay almost any price for a garment that would give them the desired curves. Consequently, this suggests that corsets may be the only option that can help women gain sexual confidence. Section 4: Corsets in the 21st CenturyJust as expected, corsets have once again returned to rule the 21st century fashion industry. From mini crop tops to bralettes, corsets may have been disguised under different fashion styles and social conditions, but with little success. Women in this contemporary era have all but abandoned the corset but have internalized it through diet, exercise and plastic surgery. This dependence can be a form of oppression... middle of paper... Victims: On the individualizing and deindividualizing powers of fashion. Fashion Theory: The Journal Of Dress, Body & Culture, 14(1), 83-104. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com.libproxy.sim.edu.sg/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=48443652&site=ehost-liveSchlosser, S (2013). Review: Half Broke Horses by Jeanette Walls - Clear eyes, full shelves. Retrieved from http://cleareyesfullshelves.com/blog/review-half-broke-horses-by-jeanette-wallsSteele, V. (2001). The corset: a cultural history. New Haven: Yale University Press. Retrieved from http://catalog.lib.buffalo.edu/vufind/Record/002164761Workman, N. V. (1996). From the Victorian era to Victoria's Secret: the fundamentals of modern erotic clothing. Journal of Popular Culture, 30(2), 61-73. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com.libproxy.sim.edu.sg/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=3113631&site=ehost-live