Victoria Whiteland Corset Couture

BLACK FRIDAY - 30% OFF SPECIAL

2011-11-24T19:21:00.016Z

Front Lacing Cincher Corset

Great little waist nippers for an excellent shape result.
Unique designer corsets, expertly made in our studio in Wales.

Features:

Side opening hook & eye
Front lacing with placket
3" waist reduction
10.5" front length
Made from strong cotton fabric

Colours: Black or White
Sizes: 8 - 22
Normal price: £90

NOW ONLY £63.00!
(Save £27)

P&P to UK = £4.50
P&P International = £8

Contact me BEFORE MONDAY 28th NOVEMBER to secure your corset!

One Everyday Corset ... so many choices!

2011-11-19T12:15:00.006Z

Since it was first created The Everyday Corset has been through many changes, making it a better product; delivering improved results.

I realised I can use my skills to help women acheive their ideal and I am inspired by the belief that confidence comes from feeling good about ourselves.

When the corset won an award I stated that the Everyday Corset would always be an evolving concept. Because for me, innovation and advancement are part of the essential process of design. This is so important to me that it will always define the way I work.

Now there are lots of great styles of The Everyday Corset to help you choose the right one for your body image. All day long the corsets are comfortable and yet achieve a stunning improved shape as only a corset would, with one important difference - you can wear your corset to work and no-one will know it - just relax and enjoy the compliments!

So - What's your type?

From Dior-inspired wasp-waist cinchers to give you that curvy look
and waspies that instantly create a perfect hour-glass figure, with no fiddly laces anywhere...

Or a longer length to create a very trim look to your hips and tummy...

Are you looking for great bust support while re-shaping all areas? ... without any of the straps and sticky discomforts that so often come with a bra and 'shapewear'?

If you are looking for all these things and more from your corset I now have two Full Length over-bust versions so that you can enjoy a natural looking bust shape under your normal clothes.

For the figure you have been dreaming of, the nips and tucks you know you can't afford The Everyday Corset is here to help achieve your aim: a great shape in an instant - every day.

Short....................... £45.99 (8") Lace at front
Medium.................. £55.99 (10.5" front)
Long........................ £65.99 (12” front) hook & eyes
Long........................ £75.99 (12” front) corset clasp
Full length.............. £85.99 (14”) bust shape, outerwear
Full length.............. £95.99 (14”) fuller cup shape, underwear

The Everyday Corset in Black remains the most popular, White Stripe extra-breathable is perfect for active wear and a delightfully feminine Powder Pink is perfect for the boudoir...

For a full length you will need this measurement form to make sure that I have all the details needed: http://www.vwhiteland.com/Victoria_chart.pdf

Limited edition only! For special ocasions we have Luscious Pink - especially lovely and luscious for winter parties, creates the perfect mood if you want to make an impact at Christmas and New Year

Take advantage of The Everyday Corset special offer this weekend - offer ends Sunday November 20th at midnight!

To order your corset, please go to:
http://www.victoriawhiteland.com/the_everyday_corset.php

P.S.
Don't worry if you can't find your size, we will make one for you and there is no extra charge for this service!

The woes of a cheap alternative

2011-11-02T09:45:00.011Z

This week I have been chatting with Kathy Chin who is testing a corset made cheaply abroad.

She has decided to trial a cheap corset and write an article about her experience. She asked my advice about underbust corsets and the cheaper corset she has recently purchased to try out.
These are my comments on the perils of wasting money in this way...

Kathy:
I wanted an underbust corset that is comfy, sturdy and suitable for tightlacing/waist training (NOT) the lousy silhouette I got from that corset in the photo.

Victoria Whiteland:
"I can't help noticing that the corset in the photo on your blog site is not tight lacing. It is just not giving you a great waist shape or hour-glass curvy look.
To reduce your waist you will need a professionally designed corset, my waspies start at only £45.00 for The Everyday Corset styles (2"+ reduction)"

"As for cheap versions, I hear such bad stories about them. There are some videos showing actual design copies and the obvious differences when seen on a person".

"I suppose with anything else 'you get what you pay for' ... sadly people try them and then assume that is what corsets are, but a proper corset is a very different experience, and a made-to-measure corset is perfection achieved... if you can get a good designer to work with your body type".

"I see this sort of thing a lot, corsets that really let the wearer down... and when it comes to the bust line... Shoving breasts one under each arm, flattening them or squashing them together into one super-boob, are just not acceptable alternatives for good design skills and experience"

"Corset making has recently become quite a fad, but the difficulty with getting a design exactly right presents challenges to me daily, after 18 years of experience. But for me a corset - by definition, should give a girl a really curvy waist in perfect comfort. That's the first challenge".
"So if you want a corset, whatever you have spent I think you have paid too much"!

Kathy: The one I have in the photo is a 22 Pounds piece I bought from C.....
You can read the full review I wrote here:
http://www.mookychick.co.uk/alternative-clothing/burlesque-vintage-clothing/getting-waisted-for-the-first-time.php

Victoria Whiteland:
My design for creating an instant waist reduction

This is a longer version to reshape both the tummy and waist, I also have this available in a shorter style".
prices start at £90 for more traditional type laced styles giving a 3"+ reduction" see photo

Uniquely created to each individuals set of measurements to create the best shape for he person it is intended for.

I have seen an almost identical copy of this on a cheap corset website... at least I know I am not the only designer to be cheated out of my of my own work in this way. Here is the video another corset designer made about a cheap imitation of her design:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qdhdnj2Hh8

Interview with a corsetière

2011-10-23T14:03:00.012+01:00

Last week I was asked by Faith Brotherston
of BE FABULOUS to provide some insights about my work with corsets and my views on the subject of corsetry.

Read more:

Gorgeous Corsets - Inspire - Be Fabulous

be-fabulous.co.uk

In this article you will find out why I became involved with corsets, and the wonderful benefits I think they offer women of today.

Be Fabulous: "Would you consider a tummy tuck or breast enhancement when a piece of fabulous lingerie could give you the figure you’ve dreamed of for a fraction of the cost? Thought not.
While we love buying clothes and lingerie that make us look and feel good, we’ve become slaves to comfort over support".

Victoria: "Women are surprised by corsets! They experience themselves on a different level – they see a new view of themselves in the mirror and are fascinated. It is liberating – they can begin to live with themselves enjoying a powerful new image".

Be Fabulous: You say that you think a corset is the ultimate solution to making a woman feel sexy without resorting to crash diets or surgery – what do you think of women’s self image on the whole?

Victoria: "Women are changing shape and size now, attitudes to larger sizes are improving, but what we have lost is the beauty of the hour-glass figure".

These issues are important and at the heart of every woman's self esteem and sexuality. Please take time to read the article and tell me your views.

And... I think you will enjoy being part of 'Be Fabulous - a place to be inspired, discover and be discovered'.

Small Breasts - the right corset will help

2011-02-03T22:46:00.010Z

This week Helena Bonham Carter praised the corset for helping her to acheive her ideal shape.
I am delighted when women discover that a well designed corset can instantly and also in the long term, change their body shape and improve their confidence and allure.

Here is what Helena said about the corset:
"Today I'm wearing huge breasts, No, it's a corset. They're still real - if you get a proper corset".
She said the corset made her breasts seem bigger than they are.

"It's amazing what a corset will do,' she commented to US Weekly
"I'm not all that well-endowed. These are my Golden Globes. Who needs Golden Globes when you've got these?"

So how easy is it to find a corset that will make the most of your breasts? and yet also create a full and very natural shape?

A badly designed corset will push breasts together or worse - flatten them.
Once laced in, some corsets seem to shove them towards your underarms, though you long to see them pointing forwards with pride!

Look for a reputable and experienced corsetiere, one with a good range of styles to offer. Take your measurements carefully and pass these on to your corsetiere. give them all the information you can.

Consider firstly, the shape that you want.
Bras offer a variety of shapes and styles, and not every style will suit you, or be the most practical for you.
Will you be wearing the corset under clothes such as clingy dresses and tops, or not?
What sort of bra style do you usually prefer?

Does your corsetier have any additional training in bra design?

If the corset styles that you like vary in appearance, ask how they will perform in the bust area.

Guide for taking your measurements correctly:
http://www.vwhiteland.com/Victoria_chart.pdf

There is just no need to be disappointed with your breasts, less can easily mean more.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1352735/Helena-Bonham-Carter-reveals-boosts-bust-corset.html

Interview - Feminism and the reapportion of the corset by women for their own empowerment.

2011-01-31T13:39:00.003Z

What made you want to become a corset designer/maker?

My brother’s injury to the spine at the age of fourteen began a lifelong interest in corsetry for me. I will never forget the day he arrived home wearing a corset, and the difference it made to his future. In time he made a full recovery and was saved from the dreadful alternative that might have lain ahead.

Do you feel a corset empowers a woman? Or does it still have the connotations of oppression associated with it?

I certainly design corsets to be empowering. My intention is that my customer should see herself transformed into her physical ideal - an emotional and powerful experience.
Even those who are very happy with their shape, stepping outside of our normal day to day self image to become an alluring and powerful creature is wonderfully uplifting.

As well as the marvellous ability to sculpt the female body, my corsets are an expression, not oppression.

Do you see corsets as a traditional form of dress? If so why?

Yes, corsets have for so long been an integral part of British dress, we have always preferred to be figure-conscious and shaped, rather than unsupported and loosely dressed.

Do you personally wear a corset? If so then how do you feel when wearing the corset?

Yes, my corset designs are intended to instantly, sometimes gradually, create a great natural shape so that almost anything worn over it will look fabulous, that it is very confidence inspiring.

It is better to spend time with a good corsetiere perfecting the foundations, than buy expensive clothes yet never be happy with your figure when wearing them.
Would you recommend wearing corsets to other women? If so why?

As a corset designer I always recommend wearing a corset. The corset should support the spine and so alleviate fatigue. Of course one is glad of the excellent support to the breasts, and reduction of the waistline, a great help in retaining a youthful shape.
For anyone unhappy with their waist line the corset will create a lovely hour-glass figure and assists with the healthy practice of eating little and often. The corset is a great incentive to achieving change naturally, without the dangers or expense of surgery, I have known many women become a great shape by wearing a corset design I have created especially for them.

How do you feel the wearing of a corset worn in the 21st century differs to the wearing of a corset in the 19th century?

Expectations of the body-shape considered essential for women to be beautiful in the C19th are very different to our ideal of beauty today.

Women became so many shapes in the pursuit of such elusive beauty. The century began with a promise of more easy, natural and sympathetic body forms, but by the 60’s and 70’s became ever more dramatic and restricting. These figure-shapes are not something that women can readily identify with today. Examining from a point of view of fear, the contortions of archaic lessons in physiology, we should not abandon what is essential in corsetry.
Today’s women have the freedom to choose their own body shape, or so it seems. Yet living without corsetry has produced another dilemma; how far would we go ourselves to attain perfection?

Readily, women enhance breasts with silicone and reduce thighs with liposuction. For those who do not choose the surgical options, everywhere women seem to be changing shape; becoming larger and wider at the waist. Our new changing shape, after centuries of control, sees a natural loss of the archetype ideal female figure when the body is unsupported.

With over 60 unique, specialist modern styles, my own work is a modern approach: using carefully designed corsetry as a means to produce a well maintained, youthful figure - surely what corsets were always intended for.

Do you think corsets are becoming an iconic fashion object again in the 21st century just as they were in previous centuries? Please give reason for your response.

In Victorian society women were denied the right to openly express their own desires. Corsets represented illicit pleasure when used in cabaret performances.

In our modern world corsets are an object of fascination: an expression of youthful, sensual beauty and sexuality, when worn by celebrities this can be seen as iconic.

Corsetry also has an important role and purpose, and this is the real reason for their enduring place in women’s history.

Interview questions by Claire Greendale

Copyright of Victoria Whiteland 31-1-2011

Questions about John Paul Gaultier Corset

2010-10-08T22:54:00.008+01:00

Jean Paul Gaultier conical corset - designed for Madonna's 'blond ambition' tour

The corset at the time was a very avant-garde and 'tongue in cheek' design, proposing the idea of whether corsets were liberating. Has Gaultier inspired you? Did you find the conical corset inspiring?

What were your views on the corset designed for Madonna? How did others view it at the time? What do you feel it symbolized? What do you feel that corsets on women symbolize? A.T.

Victoria:
I talked a little about this in an article I wrote some time ago, I said:
“Madonna leapt memorably into the nation’s consciousness; corset fever had gripped society once more”

I would refer to this as The Madonna ‘Corset’ as it is a stage costume created to replicate a body control garment of the sort that were popular in the 1950’s
The circular stitched bras and conical bras were often built into an elasticised full-body girdle a few years later.
The lower half of the costume also resembles types of corsetry seen in 1875, with quilted stitch-work.

Saucy garments, more typical of burlesque/variety club, and strip-tease performances, were chosen for the theme of the Madonna show. John Paul’s designs captured the look perfectly; he presented stylish risque’ costumes for a modern, mainstream audience.
In this set of stage costumes, JPGaultier showed his usual high standard of design.

Corsetry as fetish wear has never interested me greatly. I enjoyed seeing the designs and was interested; knowing that this event would influence lingerie, corsetry and contour-wear styles, some high street trends would probably soon reflect and imitate the ideas shown, just as costumes from films are quickly integrated into fashion trends.
Victoria

October 1st at the Queen's Hall, Narberth, W. Wales

2010-10-02T17:10:00.012+01:00

Last night we enjoyed the local showing of our new corset collection. It was a wonderful night, such a hugely enjoyable show of dazzling couture designs in the rather lovely, tiny town of Narberth, which is full of gorgeous boutiques. What a great night - the place was packed!

The fashion show was held at a welcoming arts venue, a washing line of clothes hung over the stage (!) there were stands for 'meet the artist' chat spots for the interludes, and a very warm and friendly gathering.

Several popular designers from Wales showed their latest stunning collections, including fantastic beachwear, kids' clothes, evening-wear, wedding gowns, 1950's inspired dresses, Japanese designs and boudoir too... People filled the hall and spilled out into the street in the interludes to enjoy the warm evening air and chatty, relaxed mood.

It was easy to settle in for a wonderful evening with a good bar, splendid fairy cakes, great music and several short interludes to allow time to eat, drink and meet interesting people... and such a lively atmosphere!

Thanks to everyone who came to the show and made it wonderful!

A very warm and special Thank You to the models Camila, Amy, Annie, Georgia and Megan. To a very wonderful person Anna Strzelecki of iseasurfwear.co.uk Thank you so much for your ingenuity and creativity in organsing such a fabulous fashion show!

http://www.whereareyourclothesmade.co.uk/

Interview Article

2010-08-08T18:47:00.002+01:00

Back support

Here is a preview of the article I have been asked to write for "Follow My Leader"
The article is an interview, the aim of which is to inspire those wishing to pursue a chosen career path.

"The main part of my daily activity is designing corsets; these are corsets for different occasions and many different reasons. My thought processes every day are occupied with questions of beauty and structure or with solving problems.

Every day I find myself talking with women about the problems they experience with finding the correct support garments or the problems they are experiencing with their bodies. These discussions may revolve around the need to address issues of weight or a desired shape; perhaps attempts to re-gain their figure after a pregnancy, and the wish to address recent or temporary changes to one’s physique, this might be strained or fallen flesh such as breasts or stomach after a pregnancy or operation.

Often there are more urgent medical matters to be considered such as back or shoulder pain; sometimes due to carrying the weight of a heavy bosom from shoulder straps, or even more serious health and physique problems; for instance scoliosis, or an injury, a bloated body shape due to fibrosis or the result of medication or a distortion to the shape of the rib-cage following pregnancy, and the very common complaints of the loss of good physique due to bad posture or an urgent need to counter the effects of badly made or incorrect underwear.

I see my work as a problem-solver; I design garments that offer relief and comfort for both men and women."

Bustiers

2010-07-05T23:05:00.005+01:00

What is a Bustier?
A bustier is a dress bodice that supports the breasts from the waist upwards.

Appearance of a Bustier
Sometimes the design of a bustier may be longer than bust to waist length, but the structured support usually begins at the waist or is concentrated in the design of the garment around the breasts, just like a bra.

Benefits of wearing a Bustier
When fitted correctly, this can have the advantage of being an essential garment for maintaining a firm bust-line, so in the case of well-endowed physiques it is beneficial to seek a professional to have one designed and made to suit the size and weight of the bosom and the desired shape that is wished.

The Bustier is a great help to larger breasted women, the immense relief of wearing firm support without adding strain to the shoulders or back, has the added benefits a great improvement to posture and comfort, and an immediate improvement in the appearance and shape of the bosom upper body.

Supporting the weight of the breasts from below is the most secure and enduring means of breast shape maintenance.

Advantages of a properly designed Bustier
A well designed Bustier can give excellent definition to the appearance of the bosom.
If professionally made, the bustier can be fitted securely enough to eliminate any movement while walking, running, etc., and does not rely on elastic suspension, which may be fallible. A properly designed and made to measure bustier can enhance the appearance of a small bust or diminish the appearance of a fuller proportioned bust-line.
To achieve a particular effect, your bustier it be made to fit your needs.

Advice for buying a Bustier
For best results: it is advised that one should check whether the bustier you wish to buy is fully boned with supports that will not break or bend easily.

For larger women, strongly supported cups are essential, look for a Bustier that contains steel supports as all or part of the structure.

Fitting a Bustier
It is important when wearing any garment without a bra, to ensure that the breasts are not unsupported as this can soon lead to stretching and loss of firmness.
The Bustier can offer excellent support, unrivalled by a bra, but for this to be true it will be essential to wear the correct size to achieve the most firm fit.

Altered Images in the Media

2010-06-23T19:12:00.002+01:00

Much in the news at present is the issue of greatly manufactured images and ideals of women’s beauty.

While I whole-heartedly support the inspirational aspects; the marvellous achievements of others through fitness and beauty regimes that can encourage us all to make the very best of ourselves and grow beyond our limitations. There is the fact that these issues of size and good looks can be daunting to those who lack confidence in the face of the 'accepted' archetypal standards of beauty and youth, despite the often highly manipulated pictures presented.

In addressing the need to represent a more even truth, we should be careful of going too far; just last week a magazine promised to ban all diet tips and photographs of thin female forms...

but surely we still need to be healthy? I know I do.

Fashion over the years has become our modern day version of the story-telling tradition, it depicts lives that are fabulous and fantastic – we can believe for a while that our dreams will
come true and everything is possible... These are old stories that speak deep to our subconscious; a wondrous castle, a beautiful princess... only the few whose destiny it is, will find the key to unlock the secret to such success.

The extreme measures these images go to link them more closely with untruth and misrepresentation, than the lives of many who read them; fashion imagery as a dictatorship in a world where only the glamorous will survive!
Many women feel cheated of the impeccable looks and lifestyles presented, though these images are often greatly out of proportion to the truth.

This is also true of life within the fashion industry. For many designers there is little recognition for their creativity. There are the dazzling tales of great success in every glossy magazine and yet where garment manufacturing is taking place overseas there is still unethical exploitation, the facts of which are carefully concealed behind the beautiful facade of fashion.
The question of fairness needs to be at the forefront of our fashion choices, a greater awareness of the fact that textile manufacturing and clothing production comes at a price.
An appreciation and respect for the skills needed to create good clothing should be more widely promoted and a greater awareness of the need for quality and standards.

We are still living in a throw-away society, where yesterdays clothes are as valueless as yesterday’s newspapers.
Helen Mirren said recently that there should be fewer clothes, valued more highly.

Perhaps we have lost the special meaning that clothes can have for us, and with it the important experience well made clothes can give us: that we are unique and special.

We can celebrate our own unique beauty and form with good style.

Protect the principles of fair trade by supporting Humanity in Fashion

Advice when buying a Bodice or a Corset

2010-05-09T15:02:00.005+01:00

What is a bodice?
A bodice is the upper section of a dress.

The appearance of a bodice

A bodice may be short or long, it may not cover all the torso, back or hips, and may not reach as high as the shoulders or neck.
The bodice is the top part of a dress and often reaches the shoulders and collar, coving the upper body wholly or partly, and extends down to the hips.

General points about a bodice

A bodice may be part of the dress and not separate from the skirt.
The top and bottom parts that make up the dress may be joined partly or wholly at a point near the waist or hips, or may be vertically joined at the shoulders or bust-line.
The bodice can be closed by a zip or row of buttons, clips and straps or hook fasteners.
There may be ribbons lacing the dress closed.

Boned Bodices

Most bodices are not boned.
They often have a loose and comfortable fit for practical, daily use or recreation and holiday wear.
The contours of the style are determined by the prevailing fashion, not by the body.

Formal Dress

A dress worn for a formal occasion is usually called a gown.
This will often be boned at the top to give a more rigid structure and endurance to the style and shape of the dress.
To create this essential durability the skirt will also be heavier, often lined or weighted, and constructed in layers to form an exaggerated silhouette that does not necessarily follow the contours of the body.

How is a bodice different to a corset?

A bodice is designed to be worn as the upper section of a dress. By this definition it is not a corset.
A bodice may be boned, but the purpose of the boning is entirely different.
The materials used in the construction of the bodice will also be different.
The tailoring and pattern of the bodice differs markedly to that of a corset.
The bodice may contain some light plastic to support the shape and style of the dress, but not the body.
Bodice patterns are cut to create the style of the dress and also to allow for ease of comfort - about 5cm larger than the body is usual by industry standards.
Materials used in the construction of the bodice may be light or heavy but are not designed to withstand the strain of being laced tightly.
Lightweight supports used in bodices are not sufficient to support the bosom.
The bodice is not designed to shape the body, and will not have the effect of reducing body size or waistline girth.

Important note regarding bodices and bust support

Lacing a bodice too tightly will cause damage and not result in a better fit or appearance.
It will be necessary to wear a bra or strapless support (this may be built in to more expensive designs or sold separately)
All important best support and shape considerations for that special day.
A corset can be worn under the dress if a reduced or enhanced body shape is wished for, a nipped in waist for instance.
A corset worn under a dress has the advantage of weight-bearing for larger breasted especially if the dress if strapless.
The creation of a perfect posture is important consideration for formal occasions particularly if in the gaze of the public and spending long periods of time standing or sitting.
The corset worn underneath has the benefit of flattening the stomach, smoothing the hips and making the waist smaller, it may mean all the difference to a truly perfect appearance or squeezing into that longed for dress...

Notes for wearing a corset under a bodice

This is how corsets were always used.
A light cotton corset can be an essential and powerful piece of body shaping underwear.
Some specifications of the dress may need to be taken into consideration regarding the design of the corset:
Be sure to note the position of neckline at the front and back of the dress, especially if low, and also the bust-line created by the dress style.
Allow for time if required to make an adjustment to the dress that will match the new fit created by the corset, especially if a much reduced waist is wished for.

Choosing either a corset or a bodice as part of a wedding gown

You may decide that it would be easier to wear a corset instead of the bodice rather than under it.
If considering buying a corset, it is probable that you will have to find a separate shop specialising in corsetry or make an appointment with a professional corsetiere.
A corsetiere may design a gown that uses a corset as the top section to create the style and shape wanted.
The entire gown or matching skirt may be made or ordered at the same establishment.
Alternatively you may match the corset with items from another favourite designer or boutique, this can be a cost effective way of getting the best possible gown with a limited budget.

How to lace your corset alone!

2010-04-17T21:22:00.003+01:00

Don’t worry if you need to do this yourself, ideally a mirror set at an angle opposite another mirror will be a great help.

The most important point is this: do not twist away or turn to one side if you want the corset to be on straight! Keep still as much as you can. This can be difficult , old-fashioned dressing tables with three angled mirrors were perfect for corsets and dresses with long zips!

If you have to tie the corset alone, you will need an extra-long lace and insert as much of it as possible into the eyelets before you start. At the level of the waist the laces should enter the eyelet above the waist and on each side go into the next eyelet down on the same side, instead of crossing over, pull laces flat against the material here and continue lacing in the usual way to the very end of the corset.

Now, lower the corset over your head, with arms raised high and wriggle into it! To tighten the laces use your thumb to find the cross-over part of the lacing and pull each of these crosses, starting from the top and working your way down.

When you have tightened as far as the waist use your thumbs to find the two vertical strips, at the waist level and inserting your thumbs, pull these out as loops, pulling away from the body for a few inches, then continue to find the cross-overs and draw these tightly, one by one, to reach the end of the corset. Finally, at the waist level, pull the two loops as widely as possible and tie a bow. This is where the corset can be loosened later, if you need to relax to eat, or start to undo the corset.

Tips for trying on your corset

2010-03-20T23:13:00.006Z

It takes a little practice to get fitted correctly into a corset.

It is easiest if you can ask a friend to help.

First of all, untie the laces, taking care to note the position of the bow at waist level. (Just count the number of eyelets from the bottom edge, about 4 or 5)

Remove your bra and wrap the corset around you. Hold the corset firmly against your body just under the rib cage and above the stomach. It is important to place it at the right height for your bust-line; not over-exposed, or too high.

Lean forward so that breasts fall properly into the cups, while you are being laced into the corset quite firmly as far down as the waist.

Now you may stand upright and relax while lacing is completed for the lower half. Try not ‘tense up’ against the corset while it is being tightened.

At the waist-line the laces can be tied into a bow for a greater waist cinching effect. This will also allow for a looser fit while eating.
The corset lace is then tied into a knot at the bottom edge of the corset.

You should now move around - sit stand and walk, so that your body accepts the corset and the materials start to warm up and relax.

Now you will see that the laces can be adjusted for a tighter effect, working from top to bottom. The corset can be laced fully now and should have found your true waistline.

If however, the corset appears to be too high or low at the bust-line, simply loosen the laces and try again. It is quite usual that the corset ‘rides up’ at the start. It is important to keep trying until you get the position just right for you, before the corset becomes ‘set’.

A corset that is new and stiff may not immediately mould to your figure, but takes a little time - just like a new pair of shoes.

Tips for getting the best breast support

2010-03-07T13:32:00.016Z

Corsets

A corset offers excellent bust support, supporting rather than suspending the weight. This helps to prevent the breasts stretching and eventually sagging.
The corset frame holds the weight of the bust (instead of the shoulders taking the weight). This is an ideal solution for women with larger breasts, as it prevents back ache and painful shoulders.
Corsets are made of strong and stable materials, making them longer lasting and reliable.
Corsets offer support for both the back. This is excellent for improving posture, and prevents slouching shoulders due to heavy breasts.

Some corsets look different to a bra when worn under clothes. You may not always want the corset to be seen (unless you are wearing it on the outside)

Make sure you tell the corsetiere that you intend to wear the corset as an undergarment.

A corset that is designed to fit perfectly with your body measurements should be flexible and comfortable for all day wear
You can choose the most suitable length for your corset to gain perfect support and freedom for your daily needs
Discuss closures and materials with your corsetiere, for garment breathability and comfort.
Take advice and make choices to ensure the best investment in the most suitable design of your corset
A corset should last a lifetime and cost from as little as £150 for a professional design

Bras

A bra relies on suspension. This can mean that the bra is only as strong as the elastic
Elastics can weaken as elastics lose flexibility with frequent washing
Straps (often a woman’s greatest enemy!) can strain the shoulders and back, sometimes leaving sore skin and aching shoulder muscles
Lighter straps will weaken too easily, leaving the bosom bobbing
and moving, with the motion of the body, so the skin around the breasts stretches
It is essential that the bra must fit perfectly - it should be purchased from an expert fitter
Wearing the wrong size of bra will be of little or no benefit
A reliable make is a worthwhile investment, a bra made of cheaper materials will not provide the necessary support. A good bra may cost between £50 - £100
Bra’s must be replaced and renewed often - breasts will change. Menstrual cycles, especially irregular cycles, pregnancy and motherhood. Breasts also change constantly due to ageing
Rubber allergy is a problem affecting many bra wearers, and should therefore be avoided during pregnancy
Bust size tends to rise and fall for all women, making harder to keep up with having the best support at all times
For a bra to do the job of a corset (corsets supported our breasts
through-out history) the bra must be under-wired, the wire fitting perfectly around and resting without any movement on the rib cage
The cup must be firm material and fully encompassing the breast tissue without squashing or forming bulges towards the cleavage or underarm
The back of the bra must be level and horizontal around the body, and not subject to rising up, due to the weight of the breasts
The closures and straps must be of sufficient strength and adjusted daily, to ensure optimum fit after wearing and washing
The bra should be washed daily as it will slacken with wearing

Size issue: now hot news on the runway and in the press

2010-02-28T18:59:00.008Z

I keep reading articles like this about the world of shopping and fashion attempting to define the 'right' size to label as 'average' for women today.

Seldom do high street fashions take a wider view of the female population.
The following article about a recent show at London Fashion Week featuring "curvier women" and today's artcle in the Mail Online: "Size zero row" have been generating a lot of interesting responses from readers.

I am constantly asked for help by women struggling with size issues. From post pregnancy belly to fashions that don't flatter and shape garments that have little effect on anyone's shape, the limited availability of sexy lingerie and corsetry for the larger figures.
These are the frustrations of so many women.

Women are all shapes and sizes and they just want to be able to buy flattering clothes.

A well designed corset will give a woman new confidence and a feminine, sexy figure, whether she is large or small, tall or short.

Our boutique range of corsets are made to suit sizes 8 to 20 - this has been the case form the very beginning.
We also constantly make garments to suit individual shapes and particular requirements, all of our styles are available from size 20 onwards by request. We take extra care to make sure that the corset is everything the customer wants it to be.

A corset that is right for a woman should make her feel newly confident and comfortable, but instantly alluring, something you wouldn't want to be without!

The Everyday Corset can be worn any time, any day.
Wear it under clothes to create a wonderful new shape or as an accessory to compliment to a style you like to wear.

Available in different lengths to fully benefit from the powerful re-shaping effects.

The Everyday Corset

2010-02-21T15:36:00.008Z

My new corset video

2010-02-21T14:58:00.004Z

Runway Show at Cardiff

2009-11-30T18:10:00.005Z

I was asked to show my collection in Cardiff this autumn for the Designers of Wales Show.

Thank you to all who made this a great evening, so many exceptional designers are living and working in Wales these days.
My favourite designer in Wales is Fflur, take a look at her website. Her work is intricate, feminine and utterly breathtaking...

A special thank-you to Judie, who organised it all, and to Kayleigh, my wonderful assistant. Thank you to the beautiful models for their chic presentation and to the designers of Wales for such creativity and imagination.

The Everyday Corset – In More Shops!

2009-10-24T15:30:00.014+01:00

Over the past few months I have been busy getting the Everyday Corset into as many shops as possible.

The response has been very positive and we’ve had lots of great feedback.

The latest shops to stock the corsets are:

Affair Lingerie Pontefract, West Yorkshire
Amazing Grace Haslemere, Surrey
The Lingerie Room Settle, North Yorkshire
Ross & Bute Notting Hill, London
Pearl Lagoon Brentwood, Essex

Please visit my Inspired by Ruby website for a map of the stockists of the Everyday Corset: www.inspiredbyruby.com/stockist.php - The Everyday Corset - now available in 30 shops across the U.K.

The Everyday Corset - More shops stocking them!

2009-10-24T15:09:00.004+01:00

Over the past few months I have been busy getting the Everyday Corset in as many shops as possible.

The latest shops to stock them are:

Affair Lingerie Pontefract, West Yorkshire
Amazing Grace Haslemere, Surrey
The Lingerie Room Settle, North Yorkshire
Ross & Bute Notting Hill, London
Pearl Lagoon Brentwood, Essex

To see where you can find your nearset stockest, please have a look here:
Stockist of the Everyday Corset

15 Top Resons for wearing a corset

2009-02-08T22:35:00.006Z

Practicality
It is unseemly and uncomfortable to flop around under our clothes, a supportive structured solution is necessary.
Back support
The improvement of health and comfort
Abdomen support
Pre or post childbirth
Posture
Prevents slouching. Promotes habitual good ‘carriage’
Body Maintenance
Controls alteration of figure due to ageing
Bust Support
Vital. Support is more effective than suspension
Figure reduction
Usually 2-3” around waist is reduced. Not achieved by other underwear
Fashion garment
Most flattering garment available
Confidence
If we look good in our underwear, we will look good in anything – whatever we spend.
Embrace new fashion shape
Wanting the perfect figure? A corset can make it happen.
Sexy look
Not just a new dress but a new shape. Underwear is essential as the foundation of looking good
Romance
As part of bridal wear or honeymoon trousseau
Fetish wear
Benefits couples with fantasy interests (no.13 unlucky for some!)
Medical
Support or correction of spine, stomach muscles or post operative support
Rescue!
My fascination with corsets as a health garment began the day my brother arrived home wearing one! Thanks to the corset, he was spared the worst consequences of an injury to the spine during a Rugby match

Corsets By Victoria Whiteland

2008-12-06T19:46:00.003Z

Here is a gallery of various corsets that I have deigned over the years.

The Corset Chair

2008-12-06T18:00:00.003Z

The Corset Chair was a collaboration between designers Victoria Whiteland (Corset Designer) and Richard Salmon (Furniture Designer) in 2005 and was exhibited in three London, UK Shows.

"The Everyday Corset" from "Inspired By Ruby"

2008-10-26T12:20:00.008Z

Over a period of years I developed and perfected the EVERYDAY CORSET.
A corset that women can wear whenever they wish. A garment that will change women's lives - and the way women everywhere see themselves .

A traditional corset is not particularly suitable or appropriate for wearing under a modern woman's everyday wardrobe, or office clothes! It is this problem that I set out to answer.

In my work I am inspired by the idea that at any one time in history garments were produced utilising the most up to date technology available. This is apparent from earliest times though we mostly think of it especially in terms of the 19thC.

The need for a modern and effective garment came to my attention for two reasons:

In all my experience I have never seen anything that would alter the figure as a traditionally constructed corset will do.
A traditional corset is not particularly suitable or appropriate for wearing under a modern woman’s everyday wardrobe, or office clothes! - It is this problem that I set out to answer.

Many types of garment exist that will smooth and mildly shape the silhouette. I did not want to produce an effect that had already been achieved – I needed to produce a modern corset.

A corset will produce a marked difference the shape of the wearer.

A traditional corset re-defines the body and the resulting reduction in waist measurement will always be its greatest appeal.

20 Great Styles When Wearing Your Corset

2008-10-21T11:19:00.012+01:00

These pictures are some of the many beautiful and creative ideas posted by my followers at Polyvore showing the EVERYDAY CORSET.

The designs shown are perfect for wearing the Everyday Corset, the corset for every occasion.

Girls everywhere will hugely enjoy looking at these, so here are the links for images from the first 10 pages... there are so many more. In time, I shall list the others to delight your senses and thank the Polyvore astists who created them - Be inspired to live your dreams!

Top 10 Tips for buying a corset

2008-10-10T12:02:00.010+01:00

There are many garments on sale today designed to be shapely, seductive and alluring underwear.

With such an array of different choices on offer, it is no longer the case that a girl can know exactly what is or isn’t a corset without closer scrutiny or advice. Nowadays many items sold under the banner of corsetry are lingerie in a more general sense, without especially having any of the qualities of a corset.

What can we do to simplify the choice we have to make?

If you know that a corset is what you need, these are the points to look out for. If you are not certain, then this will help you decide.

1) Quite different. The corset is a singular and distinctive item of clothing: it is a garment that will reduce your body size. Wearing a corset will give you the means to change your figure instantly, and benefit from the long term results of figure-shaping. This re-shaping effect of the design should be immediately apparent when the garment is worn.

2) Exaggerated curves. Corset patterns should be cut in a specific way to ensure that the curves of the body are fully emphasised, resulting in a significant reduction of the waist and stomach area, an exaggeration of the bosom. If correctly designed, the corset pattern will not place pressure incorrectly on the body.

Exaggerated Curves

3) Sturdy construction. To be capable of such remarkable effects on the physique, the corset would require the strongest textiles, capable of withstanding the force of tension without any danger of stretching or tearing. The corset materials would need to be manufactured specifically for this task (not dress making fabrics) or the corset may be constructed from several layers of cloth; a lining, a sturdy inner layer of backing material and a top layer of decorative material. Each layer should be firmly secured to the other layers in every way.

4) Strongly ‘boned’. The supporting devices of the corset and the opening/closing fixtures should be made of the strongest metals, securely embedded within several layers of material; to avoid the danger of penetrating the material and causing injury.

Strongly Boned

5) Capable of tight lacing. The garment will need to be laced up. The material construct of the laces should be sturdy and sufficient to withstand tension without breaking. The eyelet holes through which the laces pass should be made of metal and designed for corsetry. These should be engineered to have a smooth, flat finish to ensure comfort. They must be correctly and safely secured into the layers of materials with ring washers, to avoid breaking.

Tight Lacing

6) Assistance required when first fitting the corset. A new corset is stiff and will take time to adjust to your body. You will need to practice fitting the corset to achieve the correct fit and positioning. A parallel gap of 2” should be the result at the back of the garment once carefully laced up the second time.

7) Sleek, shell-like appearance. The garment surface should have a smooth, taut appearance, with no wrinkling or bulging, and no slackness in fit. A corset should be firm and sculptural.

8) Corseted not squashed. A correctly fitting corset should create your perfect silhouette. It should be shapely yet comfortable to wear. An ill-fitting and unnatural bust line will appear squashed. The corset should end well along all edges without the appearance of flesh bulging from underneath or around the edges of the garment. A corset that is too tight will restrict the rib cage and diaphragm.

Corseted shape

9) Perfect fit is vital. A specific measurement system should be available for placing an order that will ensure a correctly fitting corset. There should be no discomfort or pressure that would give rise to concern.

10) Safe, authentic design. It is important to check that the designer / maker is a qualified and experienced corsetiere.

Beware of copies

2008-10-06T10:29:00.013+01:00

Today I was contacted by a customer on the subject of my last post; "When is a corset not a corset" asking for my comments, here is my reply:

Dear A.
I looked at the links you sent and it would appear that the items you are viewing on these sites are not corsets.
To be certain of buying a corset and not a garment simply described as a 'corset' you will have to use the services of a trained corset designer.

Since corsets have been popular again, I see that this type of false advertising frequently.

Girls these days must be careful if they are not to spend an inflated amount of money on what is simply a basque, or find that they have purchased a cheap imitation of a corset that is badly designed and therefore harmful.

You are welcome to ask me for more advice,

With best wishes,
Victoria

When is a corset not a corset?

2008-09-01T18:34:00.009+01:00

A corset is completely different to any other garment. They are unique in that they will change a woman's shape.
- The change is much greater than a mild smoothing out of bumps and bulges!

What is a proper corset?
A properly designed and well made corset will re-define the body and sculpt the figure into a new idealised shape, altering the proportions this effect can also be seen to have longer term consequences if frequently worn.

Many items sold as corsets will do none of these things. They may be completely ineffective or even present a danger for the wearer.

Many garments have appeared that are produced only as fashion garments, but are not corsets. These are what could be called corset-style-tops as the only similarity to corsets is some lacing on the garment.

Cheaply made corsets have recently flooded the high street. These are so often badly designed, placing pressure on the body in ways that can have bad long term results and using poor quality parts that will quickly rust or break.

How to be certain of getting an authentic corset:
Find a trained corsetier
Choose a high qulity brand you can trust.