Perceptions of Body Image through History

By pal
  • Period: Jan 1, 1500 to

    16th Century

    Many women had the bell-shaped look with a huge lower half and a less dominant higher half.
  • Period: to

    17th Century

    The petticoat rings become less common, giving the lower body more shape.
  • Period: to

    18th Century

    Dresses were re-introduced and tight laced dresses caused women to have a high, round bosom and an upright posture.
  • Period: to

    19th Century - Victorian Times

    Many women continued with the hour-glass shape and was emphasised by their huge skirts.
    In the Victorian Times, the ideal shape for women was full figured and fleshy with a small waist with a tight corset.
  • Period: to

    1900-1920

    Slenderness became more fashionable. Women increased in athletics and physicians.
  • Period: to

    Mid 1900's

    The Victorian hourglass became more fashionable for women who bound their breasts to achieve the washboard look.
  • Period: to

    After the War

    The curves in women were more popular in this period of time. Bra sizes were introduced in Britain to give more support for women.
  • Period: to

    Late 1900's

    There was an increased emphasis on losing weight. In this period, the ideal body was slim and large breasted.