Unlike modern lightweight shapewear, "granny" girdles were often made of heavy-duty power net, latex, or elasticated panels with boning for structure.
The phrase "granny girdles thumbs" often refers to the physical struggle of putting on a traditional, high-compression girdle, which required significant thumb and hand strength to pull up. granny girdles thumbs
Much like a modern bra, the "relief of the girdle" is a common cultural trope, representing the end of a restrictive, hot, and confining day. Most girdles featured metal garter clips (suspenders) to
Most girdles featured metal garter clips (suspenders) to hold up nylon stockings. Retro Foundation Garments: Yea or Nay
Below is an overview of the cultural and physical context of these vintage garments. The Engineering of Shapewear
For more information on the history of these garments, you can explore the Wikipedia entry on Girdles or view vintage sewing patterns to see how they were constructed. Retro Foundation Garments: Yea or Nay?