So for my first entry I could begin by giving some extravagant detail into the origins of the corset and its history, but the fact is, that just not what I’m interested in and its an essay that anyone who’s studied fashion, costume or feminism has already written.
What I’m interested in is the tight lacing fashions during the rise of the Victorian middle classes, and how the use of boning and shaping of the corset can change the feminine silhouette.
What better place to start than a housemaids Corset, manufactured in 1890 by Symingtons Corset Manufacturers. The ‘Pretty Housemaid’ Corset was the cheapest and strongest Corset made, and specifically targeted towards the women in domestic service.
I am making my copy to be as similar as possible to its Victorian original, but adapting the proportions to suit the modern body shape. I want to compare this to other corset shapes around the same time, and also to develop new underwear shapes and designs with period techniques. I am also hoping to wear the corset for periods of time to test it for comfort and design, so keep checking back for updates on that!!