The Ladies TeaStop in and grab a quick cup of tea! All sorts of ladies issues are disscussed here. Both Ladies and Gentlemen are welcome to join in the conversations.
As many of you know, I am just getting my start into reenacting. I have a friend who has helped me quite a bit, and from her have received the information that corsets don't really "cinch" the waist so much as it lifts. (That's what I want- something that really doesn't try to take me down a few sizes...it doesn't get much smaller, plus I don't want to be cramming my vital organs in unfamiliar/unhealthy positions.) Someone gave me a website to look into for buying a corset, and she has the best prices thus far. My concern, however, is that she claims it will take 3-6 inches off my waist. I literally don't see that happening, and don't want to! I'm sure there are many ladies out there who would want such support, but I just don't need it. Is it true that corsets are made to cinch the waist, or not? Thanks!
It's a matter of how tightly you lace. Tight lacing was a hot topic in 1860 and frequently criticized from pillar to post. So you do not have to be tightlaced to be accurate.
The key is to create the appropriate hour-glass silhouette and achieve a snug fit when you put on your bodice. Inch reduction is a personal preference and unnecessary. I'm sure that her ad blurb is an appeal to those who can be sold with a promise of knocking off a few inches.
but I saw on Ripley's believe it or not this woman, who has always worn a corset, she must have been 3-4 inches around at the waist. I think she always had to wear it, or she would break. It was gross!
Anyway...
Hi Ami
I saw that Ripley's one too. YUCK!! She looked gross and I can't see anyone finding that appealing.
As far as the corset you found on that site, I think Connie was right about them feeling that by saying it would take inches off it would sell since that's what many wanted. I am sure that by not lacing it tightly it would fit comfortably. If the laces are not long enough where it's to come in then you could add longer ones I'd guess. Good luck in your quest
Actually, instead of one long lace you can install laces, one for the upper part of the corset and one for the lower, to allow adjustment of the individual areas.
Wearing a corset or set of corded stays gives the period correct look and fit. Look around at the next event... you can tell who does and who doesn't... and who looks better!
LOL, thanks, gals. I hope I can get this "costume" (I know, I know, Don't call it a costume. You can't take Stage outta a girl that easily!) thing figured out soon!
BJ, regarding costumes, I have to share a story. I'm used to dealing with rather low-end uniforms - C&C rather than Jarnigan. I ordered a suit pattern for Mr. Zou's civilian impression, and I couldn't believe the number of pieces and picky details it has -- right down to tape and cording in the seams and binding on the lapels. Then I realized that this was meant to be an actual garment, and not a "costume," something meant to last a lifetime. Needless to say, haven't tackled that pattern and probably won't until after the holidays... and when am I going to find time for all this OTHER sewing I want to get done before next year's season starts... sigh...
hey all,
I was reading up on this thread, and the 'corded stay' came up. I have heard a little bit about stays, and I thought about making one instead of having a corset. Is there a certain one you would wish to have for your reenacting?
thanks,
-AJ
AJ, a corded stay is certainly easier to make. The idea is the same - a garment to give shape to the waist and support the bosom. You can use a hook and eye tape to close it in the front instead of a busk (the stiff closure used for corsets.) It won't give that stiff nipped-in look you need for high fashion portrayals, but it's fine for a farm wife, laundress, or a nurse who is not too fashion conscious.
For a corded stay you can use the corset pattern available from Simplicity, either the shorter 1850s one or the longer 1860s one, but instead of using bones you sew several rows of fine cord along where the boning guides are.
I am trying to think if Past Patterns has a pattern which could be used for a corded stay. I'll check their website and get right back here with that information.
OK, back, that was quick, and check out Past Patterns #705, Early to Mid 19th Century Sensible Stays. These are unboned, but cording could be added to give them more body. They are at http://pastpatterns.com
As for what I would want, if I were doing an active impression such as a laundress who actually did the wash, I would definitely want to wear the stays. If I were portraying an officer's fashionable wife, a corset would be most appropriate.
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