I took the XL size for a T 44 French equivalent. The rear cords are used to tighten the corset where necessary. There are ribbons to the top (not visible in the picture), that make a pretty bow and a little closer to the caps. Whales provide good rigidity to the assembly and can selectively expose the back through the lacing seen that there is a strip of cloth inside. A corset that can perfectly wear over trousers or a skirt because it is very dressed.