Corsets & Ghagra-Cholis: Fashion's Journey from Control to Chosen Expression

• Corsets, once rigid undergarments, have evolved into modern fashion statements, symbolizing beauty, status, control, and rebellion.
• Ghagra-cholis in South Asia, though more fluid, also traditionally regulated movement and posture, representing regional identity and femininity.
• The Victorian era saw corsets become compulsory, leading to health concerns and the dress reform movement advocating comfort.
• The early 20th century brought a shift towards freer silhouettes, with designers like Coco Chanel rejecting rigid corsetry.
• Today, both corsets and ghagra-cholis are reinterpreted as symbols of agency and confidence, with structure being chosen rather than imposed.

Why It Matters: Fashion's evolution, from corsets to ghagra-cholis, reflects a shift from imposed control to personal choice and expression.