What is it about this uber feminine undergarment? Almost always designed to enhance the female figure, the corset has become an icon of all that fascinates about the ambiguous sexual codes of the Victorian era.
Was wearing corsets primarily about binding chastisement? Could the corset explain common female maladies of the Victorian era, from fainting fits (a.k.a. the "vapors") to actual miscarriage? And later, how pivotal actually was its demise to enhancing the sexual revolution?
We may never know the exact answers but one absolute is that corsets today are less about socio-political history than beauty and (yes!) comfort. The corset emphasizes the individuality of its owner - this is a unique piece that flatters every figure and can instantly dress up a pair of jeans or a sleek suit. Not to mention corset dresses, which can give your figure a classic 1950's silhouette.
Custom-Made Corsetry: Lacing Up
Unless you have meticulous measuring abilities, avoid ordering by mail for this item. Fit is crucial and you should have the corsetier lace you in and then go over the basics so you'll be able to do it yourself. If you live in, say, Bicknell Utah or somewhere similarly rustic, mail order may be your best option as Ebay yields mostly pre-worn, off-the-rack corsets.
Corsets should be between two to four inches smaller than your normal waist size. If you happen to lose a few pounds your corset should still fit beautifully. Stay with a cut that gently hugs the bust and falls just above the hip. Mini corsets are sweet but work best as a novelty; a better alternative are the cinch belts that many designers are pairing with billowing skirts and dresses this spring. Long-line corsets are impractical unless you are starring in "The Jayne Mansfield Story." Once laced in, you will feel like you have astonishingly wonderful posture but you should not feel any pain.
Forgo Fetish Corsets: Stay Classy
Goth clubs, fetish salons, etc. usually inspire corsets in PVC or lace overlays; these rarely look timeless or flattering. The corset is an evening piece that should be chosen with more mainstream events in mind - that way you can always segue to a racier event if desired.
Black, chocolate brown and ivory satin or matte fabrics will look absolutely stunning with all hair colors and skin tones, especially when paired with a sleek long-sleeve top or underneath a tailored blazer. Add jeans and you're good to go to any rock concert.
Current & Vintage Corsets
Antique or custom-made corsets with vintage Victorian fabrics are exquisite collectors' items to own. The Vivienne Westwood basques and bodices that heralded the corset revival in the mid-1990's are wearable works of art, collected and coveted by many fashionistas. Her creations are perfect for a holiday party or any event where drama is on the guest list.
Gaultier, Azzedine and Dolce and Gabbana have been designing corset-inspired dresses for over a decade. If a built-in corset is too dramatic then many designers will pair a seamed corset shape with a built-in bra for superior shaping.
Corset Training: Don't Get Tied To It
Corset training, the practice of wearing an extremely tight corset 24/7 to atrophy the waist muscles and create an extreme hourglass figure, is not recommended. Even if one can tolerate the constant discomfort, the ultimate result is not the curves of Sophia Lauren, it looks closer to a circus sideshow, which is one vintage look you don't want!
