Wasp Waists Inherited?
Ellen G. White often addressed the subject of how practical Christianity relates to fashion. She pointed out the duty of dressing healthfully and not being a slave to the dictates of “style.” Like other health reformers of her day, Ellen White protested vigorously against the unhealthful practice of “tight-lacing” associated with the wearing of corsets. She noted: “The corsets which are again being generally worn to compress the waist is one of the most serious features in woman’s dress. Health and life are being sacrificed to carry out a fashion that is devoid of real beauty and comfort. The compression of the waist weakens the muscles of the respiratory organs. It hinders the process of digestion. The heart, liver, lungs, spleen, and stomach, are crowded into a small compass, not allowing room for the healthful action of these organs. . . . “By lacing, the internal organs of women are crowded out of their positions. There is scarcely a woman that is thoroughly healthy. The majority o
