Cathie Jung, known as the “Queen of Corsets,” holds one of the most astonishing Guinness World Records—she has the smallest waist on a living person, measuring just 15 inches (38.1 cm) when corseted. Her incredible dedication to tightlacing, the practice of wearing corsets for extended periods to gradually reduce the waist size, has made her a global icon in the world of body modification and fashion.

The Journey to the Smallest Waist

Cathie Jung was born in 1937 and began wearing corsets seriously in her 30s. What started as a passion for Victorian fashion soon turned into a lifestyle. For decades, Cathie has worn corsets for up to 23 hours a day, taking them off only for short breaks and cleaning. Over time, this consistent tightlacing dramatically reduced her waist, earning her the title of the woman with the smallest waist in the world.

When tightly corseted, Cathie’s waist measures an astonishing 15 inches—about the same circumference as a large jar or a small melon. Without the corset, her waist measures around 21 inches, still incredibly small by modern standards. Her extraordinary figure has captivated audiences worldwide, making her both a fashion sensation and a record-holder.

The Art of Tightlacing

Tightlacing, the method that Cathie used to achieve her tiny waist, involves wearing a corset that is progressively tightened over time to reduce the waist’s size. This process can take years, and it requires a commitment to wearing the corset for long periods each day. In Cathie’s case, she wears her corset almost continuously, removing it only briefly to shower or rest.

Corsetry, particularly in the Victorian and Edwardian eras, was a standard practice among women who wanted to achieve an hourglass figure. However, the extreme form of tightlacing seen today is far more dramatic, often reducing waists to sizes much smaller than what was historically common. Cathie’s love for this form of fashion has transformed her into a living example of Victorian-style elegance and modern-day tightlacing extremes.

Cathie Jung’s Influence and Legacy

Cathie Jung’s dedication to tightlacing has earned her a prominent place in fashion history. Known for her Victorian-inspired wardrobe and corseted silhouette, she has appeared on TV shows, magazines, and documentaries worldwide. Her Guinness World Record for the smallest waist remains unbeaten, inspiring curiosity and admiration from fans of corsetry and body modification.

Her story isn’t just about physical transformation; it’s about her love for historical fashion and her personal expression through body modification. Cathie has become a symbol of how fashion, when pursued with passion and dedication, can reshape not just one’s appearance but the way the world perceives beauty.

The Health Aspect

While Cathie’s small waist is certainly impressive, it raises questions about the health implications of tightlacing. Tightlacing can compress the internal organs and impact the rib cage, and wearing a corset for extended periods can weaken core muscles as the body relies on the external support of the corset. Despite these risks, Cathie reports feeling healthy and has continued her tightlacing lifestyle for decades.

However, for those interested in waist training, it is crucial to understand the potential health risks involved. Tightlacing, especially to such extreme measurements, should only be pursued with caution and medical advice.

Corsets: A Timeless Fashion Statement

Cathie Jung’s fascination with corsetry speaks to the lasting influence of this iconic garment. Corsets have been used for centuries to enhance and shape the human body, particularly among women. While corsets fell out of mainstream fashion in the 20th century, they remain popular among historical fashion enthusiasts, tightlacers, and people in the gothic, vintage, and alternative fashion communities.

The revival of corsetry in modern fashion often celebrates individual expression and body modification, with Cathie Jung standing as a prime example of this. Her tiny waist, maintained by corsetry, captures the essence of this timeless piece of fashion history.

Cathie Jung’s Guinness World Record for the smallest waist showcases her remarkable dedication to corsetry and tightlacing. With a waist measuring just 15 inches when corseted, she has become an iconic figure in both the world of fashion and body modification. Her journey is a testament to her passion for Victorian style and the art of corsetry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue and inspire.