Cathie Jung: The Woman Behind the Extreme Waist

Cathie Jung is an American woman recognized for having the smallest waist in the world, measuring just 15 inches (38 cm) when tightly laced in a corset. Born in 1937, she has dedicated decades to the practice of tightlacing, a form of extreme waist training that involves wearing a corset for extended periods to gradually reduce the natural waist size.
Cathie Jung Biography
Full Name:
Cathie Jung
Age:
Born in 1937 (As of 2025, she is 88 years old)
Early Life & Education:
Cathie Jung was born in the United States in 1937. Details about her early life, family background, and education remain largely private. However, she has mentioned in interviews that she developed a fascination with historical fashion, particularly Victorian-era corsetry, which eventually led to her extreme waist-training journey.
Career & Rise to Fame:
Cathie Jung became widely known for her commitment to tightlacing, a practice of wearing corsets continuously to achieve a dramatically small waist. She began waist training in the 1980s and gradually reduced her natural waist size. Over time, her dedication led her to achieve a record-breaking 15-inch waist when tightly laced, earning her a spot in the Guinness World Records as the woman with the smallest waist.
Her unique physique has made her a subject of interest in the fashion, medical, and entertainment industries. She has appeared in various television interviews, documentaries, and fashion events, where she discusses her passion for corsetry and historical fashion. While some admire her dedication, others view it as an extreme form of body modification.
Relationships:
Cathie Jung is married to Bob Jung, a physician who has supported her corset-wearing lifestyle. The couple shares a mutual interest in historical clothing and fashion.
Net Worth:
Cathie Jung’s net worth is not publicly documented, but she has gained recognition through media appearances, endorsements, and features in books and documentaries. Her primary source of fame and income comes from her status as a Guinness World Record holder and her involvement in corsetry-related events.
Legacy & Influence:
Cathie Jung remains a significant figure in the corsetry community, demonstrating the extreme possibilities of waist training. Her lifestyle and choices continue to spark discussions on body modification, health, and beauty standards. Despite controversy, she has inspired many in the historical fashion and tightlacing communities.
Conclusion
Jung’s fascination with corsetry began in the 1980s, and she has since become an iconic figure in the world of body modification and historical fashion. Her dedication has earned her a place in the Guinness World Records and widespread media attention. While some admire her commitment to Victorian-era aesthetics, others view her extreme body modification with concern.