The Curvaceous 'S'

As part of our project we have been considering how clothes can shape and alter the female body to fit in with the trends and fashions of the times. Clothing can be used to control the shape and appearance of bodies and has been doing so for many years, for example corsets which first became popular in 16th Century Europe. In the book, The Feminine Ideal, it states that “The corset created a new fashionable silhouette in which the stomach was pressed flat, the bust was pushed up and the hips were pushed back. It was called the sans-ventre, meaning ‘stomach-less’ or ‘erect line’ and was responsible for a woman’s curvaceous S shape.” It is interesting to note, for us as a female group, as we look specifically into the female body and body image within young women, that the pressures to have a certain body type existed in a period that we may not have thought about and still exists in contrast today. The curvaceous 'S' shape, more commonly known as the hourglass figure, is still desired in modern society, however it is now being inspired less by corsets and more by celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, who are promoting figures and ideals which are often unachievable without some form of surgery.

As theatre makers, it is almost impossible to generate every subject surrounding body image into just one, one hour performance. However, we feel it is important that we are able to show that we have looked into all aspects and areas. We have been experimenting with different materials that could change our body shape whilst bringing a comedic element and avoiding voyeuristic pleasures. In true ‘Tagged style’ we went with the chicken fillets, using different types of real chicken to highlight the different sizes of breasts. This being; chicken fillets, chicken strippers, chicken nuggets and popcorn chicken.

Chicken fillets and push up bras provide yet another way to change the shape of your body “naturally”, as do push up knickers, which have appeared on the market in recent times to achieve a bigger and more rounded bum. It is interesting to note the rise in different items of clothing that make changing the shape of your body, readily available and achievable no matter your age or size. What message does this send across to young women and what message does it send out to young people about body confidence and feeling good in your own skin?

We aim not to negatively target any company whilst making our show but we do aim to encourage and promote a healthy well-being to the younger generation.