How to Select a Corset

Over-the-Bust Victorian | Under-the-Bust Victorian | Demi-cup Victorian | The Waist Cincher
Renaissance & Georgian | The Deep Plunge | Fusion

The Over the Bust

This modern classic provides full bust coverage, supports, and smoothes the figure. It can be worn under a gown- great with wedding dresses, or with a skirt as a bodice unto itself. An ‘over the bust’ works well on all sizes and figures – even a large bust line. Embellishments work very well on this style, as well as busks, and front lacing.

Please note: If planning to wear a corset under a wedding gown you will need to have your dress fitted wearing the corset. It will change the shape of your bust line, and it does take up room, so order the corset first.

[back to top]

The Deep Plunge!

This is a style developed by the the Fitting Room. It was inspired by a French corset of 1910. It is an over the bust style with a combination of Busk and a “Deep Plunge” at the bust line, held together by lacing. It offers full bust coverage with a peek- a - boo effect.

[back to top]

The Under the Bust

This is a simple corset that is good for most figures. It will smooth and define your waist. It covers the torso from the ribcage (under the bust) to the top of the hips. It works well on men or women and can be worn with a bra. It is not good for those with very large breasts.

An ‘Under the bust’ lends itself well to a busk, or front lacing, and can be shaped at the top and bottom edge for a variety of effects.

[back to top]

The Demi Cup Victorian

The Demi-cup or ‘half cup’ has all the characteristics of the ‘Under the Bust with the addition of a flared front that comes up to the nipple line. The Demi-cup will support a larger bust (though it is not a good choice if one wears false breasts), and give the figure that characteristic “corseted” look. It is a good choice for mid-Victorian or Civil War era gowns.

[back to top]

Renaissance and Georgian

Here are the traditional styles of the 15th through 18th centuries – designed to be comfortable on modern bodies. This style is useful for both historical re-creation and fashion wear. They have many possibilities – (yes. I do mean Pirates!).

The Renaissance and Georgian corset has a flat front – (no breast definition). It is long in the center front and tapers to the waistline at the side and back. Tabs flair out over the hips. It can be made with or without shoulder straps.

[back to top]

Fusion!

This modern style is a combination of the flat fronted top of the Georgian, with the hip line of the Victorian. It lends itself to many style variations, busk, straps, trim etc.

[back to top]

The Waist Cincher

Shorter than an under the bust, and wider than a belt, this versatile “corselette” is a great as outer wear over a dress or skirt.  (I also do a fabulous version to be worn with a man’s suit – very goth) .  

[back to top]

There are many more styles to choose from, and we will be addressing more of these in the future. If you have a style that appeals to you, send it along by post or e-mail and we will see if we can make it for you.

[back to top]