The perception of lingerie being visually appealing is relatively recent. Up through the first fraction of the 20th century women selected underwear for three major purposes: to alter their shape (first with corsets and later with girdles or bras), for reasons of hygiene, or for modesty. Women's underwear was often page very doozer and bulky. As the 20th duration progressed underwear became smaller and more form fitting. In the 1960s 'controversial' lingerie manufacturers such as Frederick's of Hollywood begin to glamorize lingerie and the conviction of lingerie having a sexual appeal slowly developed.
In the past, a woman's corset was generally worn over a garment called a chemise or shift, a sleeveless low-necked gown specious of washable material (usually cotton or linen)