Corsets and Bustiers
Corsets weren't just made for voluptuous women…voluptuous women were made for corsets! If the word 'corset' makes you cringe, thinking about being squeezed and trussed like a Thanksgiving turkey until you pass out, think again. The reasons for wearing a corset are as numerous as the types and styles. From bustier styles that can do double duty in the bedroom or the club to below the knee corsets meant for the serious body modifier, there is sure to be just the right flavor for you. Many shops and web sites offer ready-to-wear corsets and bustiers for plus size women but if you are interested in something made to order the possibilities really are endless.
Ready-to-wear corsets are going to be the easiest to find and least expensive choice. They come in two styles. For quick impact try an underbust style that covers you from under your bust to just below your waist (a straight-topped cut is most flattering on a curvy figure but if you have a long torso consider a pointed cut instead). It can turn an ordinary outfit into the sexiest ensemble in your closet. After all, you are emphasizing your bust and hips and curves like they've never been seen before. Don't be surprised if you stop traffic! It's cousin the overbust corset is also popular and probably closer to what you think of as a traditional corset. You'll have to spend more time shopping since there are so many cuts and styles, from lacy merry widows to black vinyl dominatrix-wear. You might have to get a few! Whichever way you lean it will look as good with jeans as it does without them.
If you are interested in an authentic corset you may find unanticipated benefits. Historically, corsets were used to support the bust as much as enhance the figure. Think of it, your waist looks smaller, your "assets" are highlighted, and your neck and shoulders are given the day off. They also remind you stand straighter and look more confident. As an added bonus, regular and frequent wearing of your corset may contribute to weight loss as well as permanent waist reduction. Similar to more costly and dangerous gastric modification surgery the stomach is restricted and one simply cannot take in as much food as usual. This may result in slower eating, allowing yourself to feel fuller sooner. Of course we highly recommend this be done with proper nutrition and exercise under the supervision of your physician.
Corsets are generally sized by waist size but in 2" increments. If your measurement is an odd number, round up to the next even number. For voluptuous women corsets should be ordered 4-6 inches smaller than your what your waist measurement is. In the world of corsets the tables are turned…the waist on a skinny Minnie won't compress nearly as easily or dramatically as on their softer sisters. You just can't work with what you don't have. Depending on the manufacturer you may also need to know your bust size (at it's fullest point…NOT your band size), your bra cup size, and the measurements of your 'high waist' (bottom of your rib cage), around the top of your hipbones, and around the fullest part of your hips for longer styles. Get true numbers by not pulling the tape too tight and double check your figures. Like most things in this world, it may be easier to accomplish with the help of a good friend.
Putting a corset on is also easier with 4 hands but it is still possible to tie your corset by yourself with a few helpful hints. To lengthen the life and preserve the cleanliness of your garment always wear a camisole or shift of cotton or linen. In the event you wear it alone use talcum powder on your entire torso.
To begin, lay out your corset and loosen the lacing to about 5 inches apart. Wrap the corset around you and fasten the buttoned or hooked front opening (called a "busk") starting from the top and working your way down. Now reach around and pull gently on the loops (or 'rabbit ears') moving progressively from top and bottom alternately towards the middle. Be sure the ribs and hips are not so tight that you are aware of them. The 'hugging' should be in your waist area and never uncomfortably snug or affect your breathing. Make a normal bow as you would tie your shoelaces. The first few times should be considered an acquaintance period for you and your corset, as it will eventually mold to your figure. Do not rush this breaking in period or you risk damaging the shaping and material, not to mention having an unnecessary negative experience with your new favorite garment. To ensure this do not lace too tightly during the first several wearings.
The practice of 'tight-lacing' is much more involved and requires a more serious level of dedication.
Essentially, it is the practice of applying corsetry in the extreme with the ends being permanent body modification in the form of creating the smallest waist possible. While it can be done safely it also has the potential for very real and permanent health problems and should therefore merit deep consideration and study in addition to a physicians consultation.
The idea of corsetry is older than the Victorian Era by thousands of years. Since ancient Minoa (circa 1700 BC!) women have used corsets to exaggerate and celebrate their curvier form. Whether you pay homage with a basic underbust model or worship at the alter with body modification, embrace your beauty and revel in it.
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