It is a strip-shaped support material, originally named for being made from whale baleen and resembling a fish bone. Modern versions are primarily manufactured using materials such as **steel (e.g., stainless steel, carbon steel), nylon, or resin**. Its core function is **shaping and support**, providing stable reinforcement to specific areas of a garment through the material's rigidity and resilience, thereby sculpting and maintaining the body's contours.

In terms of application, boning is mainly used in garment categories requiring strong shaping. In **intimate apparel and swimwear**, it is sewn in parallel or curved lines into the side support panels of bras or the waist and abdomen areas of shapewear, providing essential lifting force to prevent rolling and enhance tummy control and butt-lifting effects. In **wedding and evening gown design**, boning is commonly used inside corsets, acting as a framework to support the entire upper torso silhouette, lift the bust, and cinch the waist. Depending on the material, steel boning offers the strongest support, while nylon boning provides more flexibility, making it suitable for everyday wear.