Despite the name most people do not know what defines a true corset. Basques and lightly boned bodices are bandied about under the name corset without fulfilling the nature of this mesmerizing and unique garment.

Whatever the styling a corset does not just look pretty or sexy, it actually reshapes the human body into a more hourglass form, persuading the waist to reduce generally by 2-4 inches, giving that distinctive curve.

With that in mind, a corset should be ordered 2-4 inches below your natural waist measurement, depending on the desired effect. If your waist is small, then it will not compress as easily, nor as far, as a person who's waist is larger.

All La Vey designs' corsets are measured in even waist sizes rising in two-inch increments from a 22 inches up to 28 inches.