Regency Stays: Update #2, Final Update
30+ hand sewn (and badly done) eyelets later, and I've at long last finished my Regency Stays.
Except for the large wooden busk, running the length of my torso in the front, that prevents me from bending in the middle, they aren't uncomfortable.
I'm having a little bit of a lacing issue, and am talking to experienced seamstresses about this folding over, or creased issue that you see in the above picture. I'm not sure if it is because the plastic boning I used isn't strong enough, or if it is the fact that my husband was the one that laced them...it's not like he does this for a living.
I'm always a little hesitant to show pictures of myself in my 'undergarments', but then I remind myself that I am more fully clothed in this underwear than most modern people are in their normal summer outfits. (and have you seen what they wear at the pool/beach?) This thought comforts me.... :-)
Anyway, I am now ready to re-do a petticoat that I made (badly) last year. The plans for my white gown are in the works, and I will post more on that later.
Comments
The creasing in the back may be due a tad bit of excess length. Could you loosen the lace a bit and tug the stays down more, in the back? Either way, they look fabulous and I love the support they give. I wish mine had as nice a bustline. I think I need to work on my gusset shape more!
Can't wait to see your petticoat and white gown! I am having a horrible time deciding what to make for the festival and feel so discouraged about that. :( I know I will feel like an outsider among you more experienced ladies!! Do you have any costuming tips for newbies? What would be a good all purpose dress or two to make? I have white striped cotton voile for a white gown, and some gray silk, but am at a loss as to what would best surve my purposes for the festival.
I tend to experiment with nontraditional supplies.
Yep, cable ties may be a really good option. They have serious strength, given what they are manufactured for.
Jenni, the stays front is perfect. The best silhouette I've seen in a long time, and so gently fitting. Nothing harsh about these. Hooray!!
Also agree with Sarah Jane about loosening the bottom a bit.
You know, I am going to write Sarah Jane right now. She is going to look and be terrific. She is such a dear person.
Hugs,
natalie
It could be too long, but the easier fix is to replace the bones with steel.
1. Raise the corset bust line by an inch, and open the cups a little. (By lifting the corset, you would be providing more support for your bust ( while still keeping in the theme of low bust lines of the regency period). By you would also be reducing bulk from around the back.
2. If there was any bulk remaining from the back. Some light tapering would be required. ( similar to that, that you would do if someone had rounded shoulders. I hope that this was helpful.