Swiss, 1968
Three typical examples of late-1960s girdle design. As designers and manufacturers grew more accustomed to the use of Lycra, even firm-control girdles relied on the lightweight stretch fabric. Slimming panels were decorated with lacy patterning; European garments typically more elaborately than American.
Note the varying garter treatments: by the mid-1960s, garters were usually sewn inside the cuffs of long-leg panty girdles, giving a smoother outline under clinging fabrics. The shorter girdle shown at center- undoubtedly aimed at miniskirt wearers- reverts to an earlier design, attaching to the bottom of the leg cuff and employing a covering ribbon to minimize show-through.
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Updated December 2003