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Corset F.A.Q.

 

  Why Buy a Corset? 
  Why should I buy an Authentic Corset vs. a mass-produced one? 
  Will a Corset make me look slimmer?
  Can a Corset help me lose weight?
  Can a Corset help my posture or reduce lower back pain?
  Are Corsets comfortable?
  What about craftsmanship and the type of boning used?
  What is "waist training" and "tight-lacing"?
  Do you have Corsets for plus size women?
  Do you have corsets for men & transgender?
  How do I select the right size?
  How do you put on a corset?
  Do your corsets have suspenders for stockings?
  Can I have a corset custom made to my measurements or with a different fabric?
  How do you care for a Corset?
  I have a question not answered here?
  *Disclaimer
      
   

 

 


 

 
   WHY BUY A CORSET?

Would you like an hourglass figure? Would you like to appear slimmer? Would you like to train your waist into shape? Do you need back or posture support? Would you like a beautiful, authentic lingerie item for the bed room? Do you want to join in the latest fashion trend? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, then an authentic quality corset may be just what you're looking for!

The history of corsets goes back many, many years. The desire to reduce the waist and exaggerate the body's natural curves first appeared in Minoan times, about 1700 BC and then re-emerged during the Renaissance period 15th century, continuing through the Victorian age. 

Today, the love and fascination of corsets continues to rise. There is nothing more feminine and appealing than the hourglass silhouette of a woman. Additionally, authentic corsets serve many purposes and continue to be desired by a wide array of individuals and groups.  

Many people simply enjoy the confidence and sensuality they experience when their figure is enhanced by a beautiful lacing corset. Corsets have proven to be a very functional, intimate and erotic piece of lingerie. Corsets have always been a favorite with brides on their very special day, and later on their honeymoon. Corsets have also been popular with the transgender community, as they can instantly acquire a curvier, more convincing feminine line under their clothes. Those in the bondage - fetish scene have long enjoyed the erotic uses of corsets, indulging in the sensation of constriction and domination.  

Corsets are flourishing in Hollywood films and are being paraded down catwalks as one of the latest fashion trends. They're worn as evening wear, they're sexy and fabulous in the bed room, and they do wonders for special occasions like a class reunion or wedding, as they hide flaws and enhance our shape under clothing. Everyone can benefit from a beautiful quality authentic corset. Feel free to browse our extensive collection of exquisite corsetry >>> Over the Bust Corsets or Under the bust Corsets If you would like more information about authentic corsets, please read our Corset F.A.Q's.

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   WHY SHOULD I BUY AN AUTHENTIC CORSET VS. A MASS-PRODUCED ONE?

The old saying "You get what you pay for" applies here. Low end lingerie corsets are priced accordingly, representative of their worth. They are mass produced lingerie garments created for looks only. Low quality corsets, are equivalent to laced-back bustiers. They are not designed or equipped for true waist shaping, waist training, or tight lacing. These garments utilize no front busk, plastic or weak bendable boning, and factory standard stitching. As a result, they do not hold their form, fail to provide substantial upright back support, and do not mold to the natural curves of your body like an authentic quality corset. The lacking quality and poor support does not allow one to experience the many benefits of corsetry or achieve the standard 4 inch waist reduction, safely and efficiently. Consequently, these bustier-type garments are not capable of serving the main functional purpose of a corset which is to reshape, and / or enhance the figure, support the back, slim ones figure, and in some cases, potentially assist with weight loss. A mass-produced corset simply does not have the quality, craftsmanship, durability or life expectancy of an authentic quality corset. 

"Authentic" refers to high quality constructed corsets with steel boning, binding and busk. Authentic corsets are bona fide, genuine, real, true ... not mass produced. Our extensive collection of hand made corsets are individually crafted to the highest standards by skilled corsetieres, who have specialized in authentic traditional and modern corsetry for many years. Only the finest fabrics, quality materials, and reinforced stitching are used in their construction. They are comprised of layers made up of multiple panels, consisting of quality fabric, lining, and an interlining for comfort and fabric protection. Within their construction includes boning of internal steel stays, steel spirals, and steel busk front closure which is utilized for strength and longevity. The laced back is comprised of durable, thick lacing cords and 2-part lace-up eyelets which allow for more reinforced, secure grommets. The exquisite craftsmanship and thorough attention to detail allows for a true quality corset that will hold it's form and give you many years of enjoyment, functionality and sensuality.

If it is your intention to buy an real corset, then we graciously invite you to see for yourself. There's no denying the difference in quality, craftsmanship and durability of an individually crafted authentic corset. We take pride in offering true quality corsetry at the most affordable prices. Feel free to browse our
testimonials.

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   CAN A CORSET HELP ME LOOK SLIMMER?

Yes, corsets are designed to draw in the waist and flatten the tummy. If you'd like to wear a corset, to appear slimmer under your clothes, we recommend purchasing a simple, smooth style with no bulky exterior lace trims.  First time wearers are usually surprised and delighted when they first see themselves in their new corset. Corsets slim and enhance any woman's body, whether she is generously curvy or straight up and down. Corsets not only give a slimmer appearance and smaller waist, but also enhance breasts and hips provocatively, giving a feeling of intense femininity and sensuality.

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   CAN A CORSET HELP ME LOSE WEIGHT?

Combined with a healthy diet and exercise, regular and frequent wearing of your corset, may contribute to permanent waist reduction and weight loss. With the stomach restricted, one simply cannot take in as much food as usual.  The restriction can slow eating down,  thereby allowing one to feel full before overeating. The corset can therefore be an effective adjunct to a weight control program. However, a corset alone is not a proper weight loss program. We highly recommend this be done with proper nutrition and exercise under the supervision of your physician. *Disclaimer

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   CAN A CORSET IMPROVE MY POSTURE OR RELIEVE LOWER BACK PAIN?

A corset should allow one to feel a pleasant hugging sensation and benefit from excellent posture. Many people find the sensation of being gently held straight with the back supported almost relaxing. Corsets have the capacity to modify your figure, your carriage and your movement. Your posture will be upright and confident, your figure smoothed out, and your more restricted movement will appear more elegant.

Additionally, a properly fitting hourglass corset can reduce the amount of pressure put on the lower back, thereby alleviating discomfort. Although, we recommend consulting with your physician first regarding any back pain and the use of support garments before investing in a corset. *Disclaimer

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   ARE CORSETS COMFORTABLE?

A well-made corset fits comfortably at the ribs and hips and gently compresses only your waist, allowing for easy breathing. While maintaining their exquisite quality and durability, today's authentic styles manage to be very comfortable. To ensure total comfort, do not lace too tightly during the first several wearings. Allow your beautiful new garment the time to mold naturally so it hugs the curves of your body. You will find the sensation of being gently held straight with the back supported almost relaxing. A properly fitting corset will not be painful to wear.

 Comfort Tip:  Always lace down just less than you feel you can tolerate or prefer, so that you will continue to look forward to wearing your corset. Take special care of the skin under the corset.  You may want to powder the skin all around your torso before you put on your corset. If you plan to wear your corset frequently, you may want to consider wearing a camisole, bodystocking, chemise, or leotard to help prevent chafing when the corset is laced. You may also use a tube top pulled down around the waist, so that nothing shows over or under the corset. *Disclaimer

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   CRAFTSMANSHIP AND BONING?

Our company proudly offers Authentic Corsets only, real corsetry which is not massed produced. Authentic corsets are beautifully hand made garments, individually crafted to the highest standards by skilled corsetieres - corset designers around the world, who have specialized in authentic traditional and modern corsetry for many years. All corsets are renowned for their quality and authenticity. 

"Authentic" refers to high quality constructed corsets with steel boning and busk and superior binding. Authentic corsets are bona fide, genuine, real, true ... not mass produced. Only the finest fabrics, quality materials, and reinforced stitching are used in their construction. Authentic corsets are comprised of layers made up of multiple panels, consisting of quality fabric, lining, and an interlining for comfort and fabric protection. Within their construction includes boning of internal steel stays, steel spirals, and steel busk which is utilized for strength and longevity. The laced backs are comprised of durable, thick lacing cords and 2-part lace-up eyelets which allow for more reinforced, secure grommets. The exquisite craftsmanship and thorough attention to detail allows for a true quality corset that will hold it's form and give you many years of enjoyment, functionality and sensuality. We take pride in offering true quality corsetry at the most affordable prices.

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   WHAT IS "WAIST TRAINING" & "TIGHTLACING"?

 "Waist training" , when done properly, is a practice whereas one can gradually achieve realistic, non-harmful waist reduction or waist shaping by moderately lacing and wearing a corset on a regular basis. This is achieved by going slowly with the appropriate instruction from a corset training expert. It is very important that one not try to lace the corset closed, or even very tightly on the first several wearings, as corsets need "breaking in time". After a short period of wearing a corset comfortably, it molds itself  to your body shape and the material takes the strain of waist reduction evenly. Placing too much pressure on the corset at the outset may damage the fabric and stitching. In addition, it may cause you discomfort and a negative feeling toward your beautiful new garment.

 "Tightlacing"  is the practice of applying corsetry to its extreme to achieve the smallest possible waist.  A tight-lacer typically wears their corset night and day, and consistently pulls the laces tighter. When a tight-lacer achieves a 2-4 inch reduction, they graduate to a smaller corset to continue their figure training until they've reach their "ultimate waist". Tightlacing has been controversial whereas many believe it to be potentially harmful to the body. However, it can be practiced safely and effectively if done responsibly. To prevent any damage to one's body and corset, the novice corsetee should first research and consult with a tightlacing expert before engaging in any tightlacing or waist training program.

*Disclaimer

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   DO YOU HAVE CORSETS FOR PLUS SIZE WOMEN?

Yes, plus size women can enjoy the same figure enhancing benefits from a corset. The corsets we offer are made to fit and flatter you beautifully, for men and women of all body types, shapes and sizes. Authentic Corsets are offered in even waist sizes, in 2 inch increments from 18 inches - 40 inches depending on the style. Larger plus sizes are available from styles beginning with product code "VO". For those customers with waists of 34 inches or more, it is recommended to order 6 inches under the natural waist measurement. Therefore, a plus size women who has a natural relaxed waist size of 40 inches would typically need a corset in size 34". Go here for sizing & measuring help .

If the corset you desire is not offered in your size, please contact us for a quote. Depending on the selected style, we can usually have a corset custom made to your sizing and/or fabric specifications.   Note: Custom orders require full payment up front. Exchanges and store credits cannot be issued on merchandise that has been made to customer specifications. Additionally, we cannot be held responsible for inaccurate measurements submitted by the customer. Therefore, please measure carefully.

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   DO YOU HAVE CORSETS FOR MEN OR TRANSGENDER?

Yes. The corsets we offer are made for men and women of all body types, shapes and sizes. For men wanting a plain corset, for masculine wear, we recommend the Gentleman's Corset A-c515 or A-c510.  Other favorites for men include the Venus or Suzette corset, VO-1891u, VO-4000u, and VO-50u. These are designed to be easily worn under men's pants if so desired.  

For transgender we would recommend an under bust style with a separate bra for best results, due to the different proportions of men's anatomy.  However, if you are in need of a full body style, we would recommend
A-c130, A-c140, V-110c, VO-4002, VO-411u, & VO-1890u as these are slightly longer styles, and can be utilized with forms or padding if needed.
 

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   HOW DO I SELECT THE RIGHT SIZE?



Corset Size


MISSES, MEN & TRANSGENDER

Corsets are sold in Waist sizes, in 2 inch increments from 18 inches - 40 inches depending on the style. Larger plus sizes are available from styles beginning with product code "VO". Authentic Corsets are designed to be ordered 4 inches under your natural waist measurement.  For example, if the measurement around the narrowest part of your relaxed waist is 30", you would typically order your corset in size 26". If one trains down to the point that the corset no longer fits snug, a new corset should be ordered with a reduction of 2 inches from the current laced waist. 

 PLUS SIZE, MEN & TRANSGENDER

For those customers with waists of 34 inches or more, it is recommended to order 6 inches under the natural waist measurement. Therefore, a plus size women who has a natural relaxed waist size of 40 inches would typically need a corset in size 34". If a plus size corsetee trains down to the point that the corset no longer fits snug, a new corset should be ordered with a reduction of 4 inches from the current laced waist. 



Providing Measurements


It is most helpful to provide us with your bust, waist, and hip measurements here.
This will ensure that you are getting a properly sized corset and will prevent the expense and inconvenience of a return-exchange in the future. Please submit your additional measurements in inches or centimeters. This is especially important if your bust, waist, and hips are not in proportion to one another, or if you need assistance with affirming that you are ordering the correct size.  

To take your measurements in inches or centimeters, measure around the fullest part of your bust, the narrowest part of your waist (directly under your rib cage) and around the top of your hip bones. You may also provide your under the bust measurement and your bra cup size. Make sure not to pull the measuring tape too tightly, and always measure 2 or 3 times for accuracy.

 1)  the fullest part of your bust (not bra size)
 2)  bra cup size
 3)  underbust measurement (not bra size)
 4)  the narrowest part of your waist (directly under your rib cage) 
 5)  around the top of your hip bones
 6)  around lower full hip (for longer style corsets only)



Made-to-measure Corsets

A made-to-measure corset is custom made to the wearer's sizing specifications, and is necessary when the wearer's measurements do not accommodate the "standard sized" corset. Made-to-measure corsets are available for "V" style corsets shown on the web site, and warrant a 15 - 20% custom fee. Upon receipt of your order, we will notify you if "made-to-measure" is necessary and will only proceed with your approval.

I
f your measurements require a "made-to-measure" corset, or you determine that you would like a corset custom made to your sizing, fabric, and style specifications, you are welcome to contact us for a quote prior to ordering.

 Note
:  Custom orders (whether standard sized or made-to-measure) require full payment up front. Exchanges and store credits cannot be issued on merchandise that has been made to customer specifications. Additionally, we cannot be held responsible for inaccurate measurements submitted by the customer. Therefore, please measure carefully. Corset styles beginning with "E", "P" or "V" are considered custom styles even in standard sizes.
 

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   HOW DO YOU PUT ON A CORSET?

Click here for detailed, Visual Instructions.

It's easier to put on your corset if there is someone there to assist you.  However, you can successfully
put it on by yourself using the following instructions.

 STEP #1  
First loosen the lacing at the back until there is a gap of about 4-6 inches. Put the corset around you (preferably not next to bare skin but over a camisole, slip, or chemise).

 STEP #2 
Once the corset is in place,  fasten the front busk; do the top clasp first and the rest should follow.

 STEP #3 
Reaching around back, pull the loops gently then tighten the lacing progressively towards the middle from both top and bottom until you are happy with the fit. There should be a pleasant 'hugging' sensation, but you should still be comfortable.

 STEP #4  
To finish, tie the ends in a bow at back or front. 

 Note:  It is very important that one not try to lace the corset closed, or even very tightly on the first several wearings, as corsets need "breaking in time". After a short period of wearing a corset comfortably, it molds itself  to your body shape and the material takes the strain of waist reduction evenly. Placing too much pressure on the corset at the outset may damage the fabric and stitching. In addition, it may cause you discomfort and a negative feeling toward your beautiful new garment.

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   DO YOUR CORSETS HAVE SUSPENDERS FOR STOCKINGS?

Yes, there are many styles which include attached or detachable suspenders for stockings. However, not all styles come with this feature.  If a particular corset comes with suspenders, it will be mentioned in the item description on the product page, and also on your detailed order confirmation. Depending on the style, suspenders may be added for a minimal fee.

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   CAN I HAVE A CORSET CUSTOM MADE TO MY MEASUREMENTS OR WITH A DIFFERENT FABRIC?

If you would like a corset custom made to your sizing specifications and/or in another fabric not featured in your desired style, please contact us for a quote.

 Note: Custom orders require full payment up front. Exchanges and store credits cannot be issued on merchandise that has been made to customer specifications. Additionally, we cannot be held responsible for inaccurate measurements submitted by the customer. Therefore, please
measure carefully.

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   HOW DO YOU CARE FOR A CORSET?

 Wearing your corset
If you plan to wear your corset frequently, you may want to consider wearing your corset over a slip, chemise, or hidden tube top to protect it from excessive perspiration or body oils. When you first put on your corset, Do Not over tighten or you could potentially damage the eyelets and fabric. Corsets need a break in period to mould to the natural curves of you body. After a short period of time, the material will conform, allowing you to go tighter. 

 Cleaning your Corset
When in doubt, DRY CLEAN ONLY. Depending on the fabric of your corset, you may be able to gently spot clean with a very mild cloth or brush.  However, be careful of "water marking" the fabric with water or dry cleaning solutions. If it is made of brocade, silk, satin, or leather, or the garment label prohibits washing, the corset must be professionally dry cleaned.  Never wash a corset in a machine or expose it to sunlight to dry, as it may fade. If the material can sustain spot cleaning, towel dry any dampness  on the corset and hang over a chair to complete the drying process. Never hang a corset over a metal hanger due to the risk of rust stains.

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