LADIES! Clear this up for me!!

[redeye]

I've not worn a corset yet, but I'm still building my period wardrobe. The point of the corset is to slim the figure and, uhm, evidence the curves, right? Then I guess one must have a well-fitting dress, or the effect is spoiled. I have various second-hand dresses and they do seem to hang a bit even without a corset.

Then, since we're talking of underwear: I've been trying to make myself a hoop skirt, while waiting to decide whether to buy one, but having to patch together an outfit in a hurry, I made a wool-stuffed "cushion" to wear under my dress. If I let it low on the hips the effect is almost right, but I fear it's not right for the period. It does make the skirt fuller, but then the folds fall down almost vertically instead of widening. What do you all say?

[slater717]

Redeye,
Hee,hee...maybe I'm not a good one to answer your question. I've shunned hoop skirts in favor of the more simple- to- wear corded petticoat. I'm still working on getting set up, too, and only have a second-hand dress as of yet. (And the petticoat, LOL). AND I'm not a well-trained seamstress either, so it'll be a challenge...to find some people who are! Oh, well, good luck getting your self together!

BJ
"Well, it made you famous." Mosby's reply to Pickett

[southern_belle1861]

Ok so I'm a little late, but oh well! A corset in my expeirence does sinch in the waist a little bit. My corset isn't laced tight and takes about 3 inches off (perfect after the recent Christmas season! ). It also help keep your bodice strait. Mainly when your wearing your best silk dress with the fitted bodice and you don't want slouchy look .

As for the bustle, I would drop it. You don't see bustles used in America during this period. You can get an authentic cage from Kay-Fig patterns for $50. It does require assembly and a bit of math to get the hoops the right size. Mine took about two days to put together.
Hope this helps!

[samgrant]

Originally Posted by slater717

Hee,hee...

Hee,hee ..............