Are self lacing corsets a modern invention?

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No! Innovation in the 1830's allowed women to lace their own corset. In the book "Fashioning fashion" there is a lovely photo and explanation.  "A new system of crossed ties allowed the wearer to lace her own corset without assistance."  From the front and back views you can see that there are multiple laces that all lead from the nicely hand sewn grommets to a tab of fabric in the front for self-lacing.

Corset:
England, 1830 to 1840
Cotton sateen, quilted with cotton
twill and cotton plain-weave tape
Costume Council Fund

Photos from "Fashioning fashion- European dress in detail 1790 to 1915" LACMA