Chest Binding

Breast binding, or "wrapping the chest" (缠胸, chán xiōng), was a practice in ancient China, particularly during the Song (960–1279) and Ming (1368–1644) dynasties. It is believed to have originated in the late Ming dynasty, as indicated by historical sartorial evidence showing the use of tight vests for this purpose. The practice was associated with a societal preference for a flatter chest, seen as a marker of femininity and virtue during various historical periods in China. Small breasts were seen as signs of youth, purity, and refinement. 
Women used garments like the moxiong or dudou to bind their breasts. The moxiong was a type of corset-like garment, while the dudou was a traditional Chinese bodice1. The practice was especially prevalent among upper-class women and was seen as a way to maintain modesty and propriety.