Wearing a Corset: Where Does it all go?

Have you ever wondered where everything goes when you put on a corset? It’s not magic, and there is a logical explanation. Read on to find out more...

Corsets can seem a little illusive - while they squeeze you in in all the right places, creating that desirable hourglass figure, you can’t help but wonder - ‘where does it all go?’

Not just for special occasions, corsets can be worn for everyday style, with more and more wearable designs becoming available. With this in mind, it’s important to gain an understanding of exactly how a corset works, where any excess weight goes, and how to put your corset on properly for the most flattering look. Read on to find out just how a corset can reduce your waist, and how to achieve this…

How Corsets Work…

While many of our corsets offer up to a 4-5 inch waist reduction, of course it is entirely up to you how tightly your corset is worn and how much you reduce your waist by. It’s not always necessary to wear your corset as tightly as possible, and you can still achieve impressive results with a 2-3 inch waist reduction, while still being completely comfortable.

When your corset fits perfectly and is put on correctly, your waist reduction is instantly noticeable, but you should still be comfortable and able to move freely. This raises that question again though - ‘where does it all go?’ If you’re reducing your waist and generally slimming your figure, any excess weight has to go somewhere.

The secret is the ‘venus fold’ which is created to the back. You’ll know you’ve put your corset on correctly, when the venus fold appears. Rather than squashing you inwardly too much, which would be very uncomfortable, your waist is reduced by focusing excess weight towards the back.

When your corset fits perfectly, as you tighten it a line should start to appear along the spine. This is the horizontal fold in your body, and any excess weight is pushed towards the centre of your back, creating a neat line while reducing your waist size.

How to Properly Fit a Corset…

If you have selected the right size and have put your corset on properly, you shouldn’t experience any fat sitting below the corset. An ill fit or putting your corset on incorrectly can cause excess weight to ‘spill’ out of the corset, which generally is the opposite to the result we’re trying to achieve through wearing a corset in the first place.

The most common cause of an ill fitting corset is the length - if it is too short this can cause some unwanted bulges, where as if you get the length right your silhouette should be smooth and your waist nipped in. Your corset should sit just below your hip bones. To ensure this, it’s worth taking your torso measurement, from the centre of your hip bones up to your underbust.

It’s also important to ensure you choose the right corset size, as too big could result in excess material and a not entirely fitted finish, and too small could result in discomfort and bulging. To find your perfect size, you will need your waist and hip measurements. A full guide to sizing can be found here.

How to Put on Your Corset...

All good corsets should come prelaced, so that you know your corset has been set up properly and ready for you to put on. The lacing may need to be loosened a little before you start, to make putting your corset on and tightening to fit your shape easier.

Stand in front of a mirror and take your corset round your back so that it is open at the front. If possible a mirror behind you will be helpful to see what you are doing. Next, make sure the modesty panel is flat against your back. Start by lining the front up so it is centred to your bust, then do the front up - starting with the middle clasp is usually best. This should be quite easy to do, so if you are struggling try loosening the back further.

Now it’s time to start tightening the corset. Pull the end laces tight to reduce the amount of lace through the corset. Next start pinching the crosses and pulling them away from your back, it’s best to start at either end and end with the middle cross. Working with each cross individually will allow you to tighten the corset to suit your shape.

Once happy, pull the ends tight and tie in to a bow. Look in the mirror and check that your corset is well fitted. It should be comfortable, shouldn’t pinch anywhere and there shouldn’t be any bulges. You should see a gap at the back to the centre, where the venus fold has formed. If your gap is wider at the bottom or top, it’s possible you’re not wearing the right size, whereas if there is any bowing in the middle you may need a larger size.

If you do find you’re getting folds or bulges at the top or the bottom of the corset, these may start to rub and become very uncomfortable. If you find this happening, or if you’re struggling to find your perfect fit, we’re always happy to offer advice and assist, just get in touch: sales@corset-story.com