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About corsets
What is a corset?
A corset is a support garment generally worn to hold and train the torso in the desired shape or form. The most familiar form of a corset is a multipaneled, boned garment that is tightly laced at the back to provide a reduction in waist circumference, however there are many types of corset depending on the historical era and the purpose of the garment.
corsetry eras
There are three distinct corsets defined by the era they were adopted and popular in:
Elizabethan Corset 1558 - 1603
This corset features a laced back, shoulder straps, flat side, and scalloped hem. It extended to the waist with a rather flat bust that still gave some push to the bust.
Victorian Corset 1837 - 1901
Although highly popular in the mid-1900s and still talked about a lot in fashion history, the Victorian corset is not the most comfortable. It’s essentially an overbust corset with a too-small waist. It has a sweetheart neckline with a pointed bottom.
These become popular in the mid-1900s before corsets as shapewear slowly became less ubiquitous.
Edwardian Corset - 1901- 1914
This corset features a laced back, shoulder straps, flat side, and scalloped hem. It extended to the waist with a rather flat bust that still gave some push to the bust.
types or corset by length
Underbust
Midbust
Overbust
Waspie
Cincher
Longline
Dress
Function vs fashion
As well as their original function as a supportive, shaping foundation garments, corsets are popular as evening wear, bridal and formal wear. Outerwear corsets also make lovely addition to any outfit
Outerwear Corset - Outerwear corsets are corsets that are meant to be worn on their own or over another garment. All Karkalla Handmade corsets can be worn as outerwear simply by choosing a satin or lace overlay.
Costume, LARP & Cosplay Corsets -Corsets are extremely popular in cosplay I offer custom corsets made to order. Please contact me directly with any enquiries.
Alternative closures and heavy duty hardware make corsets a great addition to steampunk costumes
Corset Dresses - The Vivienne Cupped Corset is available as a stand alone dress. I can also add corsets to custom dresses and gowns
Corset Tops and Shirts
There are several patterns available, generally based on stays, that have shoulder straps built in. These are generally designed to be worn over other garments. These can be ordered by contacting me directly
Corset Lingerie
Corsets as lingerie are generally made from lighter, or sheer fabrics with less or no waist reduction. Stretch fabric panels can be used to eliminate the need for back lacing. Front closure is usually using hook and eyes rather than a solid busk. Some corset bras also have cups for support. I have listed these under corset adjacent garments as they provide less shaping than a traditional corset
corset adjacent garments
As the corset fell out of mainstream fashion in the 20th century, many (and I do mean many) different garments and devices cropped up to functionally replace the corset.
Karkalla Handmade offers several corset adjacent boned garments. These garments are generally made from low stretch fabrics (longline bras) or compression fabrics with a high percentage of spandex to provide support and control without restricting movement.
Godiva bodysuit +/- cups
Odessa bustier
Marei longline strapless bra
Corset materials
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Coutil
Powermesh
Lining fabrics
Fashion fabrics
Cup fabrics
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Flat steel
Spiral steel
Plastic
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Busk
Hook and eye
Zip
Clasps and alternative closures
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Ribbon
Parachute cord
Leather throng
Satin
Have Questions?
karkallahandmade@gmail.com