You can think of this as an Advanced Level Blog on corset fit, if that helps give an idea of where we're going.
The Hourglass is our most popular silhouette. This silhouette creates a dramatically cinched waist for the wearer, causing the desired, intense, dramatic hourglass shape. No matter your body shape, we probably have a fit for you in the Hourglass as we offer it in a Regular as well as a Longline and a Short and there are different reasons for each.
The Short Hourglass, also known as a Waspie, is extremely versatile. Made with shorter people in mind, this corset is ideal for a smaller torso. If the Regular Hourglass is too long for you it might dig into the tops of your thighs, hips or even the bottom of your beasts, especially when sitting down; this is a sign that a Short might be the right fit for you. For instance, I am just shy of 5 feet tall and while my torso is not particularly long or short, and while I can wear the Regular Hourglass, a Short is much more comfortable for me.
I mentioned how versatile the Short is as well and there are other details to consider while finding the truly perfect fit. On a taller person, or someone with a longer torso, the Short will fit , but the look you will get is closer to a waist cincher or large belt than an “authentic” corset. This is a perfectly valid “look”, the dramatic hourglass curves are still there, and the added comfort might be a plus.
Another thing to be considered is your rib cage. A colleague of mine is an average height woman. Looking at her, one would easily think an Hourglass Regular is the fit for her. However! She has widely spaced ribs and a long rib cage causing the regular to hit in an uncomfortable area. All body types are different! For this reason, she prefers a Short.
One thing to be cautious of when looking at a Short is what we in the “biz” cause Squish Factor. This is exactly what it sounds like. Some people have more squish on their bones, and some are more firm – this is not necessarily the same as fat versus skinny but may be related. On a Short, people with high squish factor might find that the corset pushes this squish down, forming what some in the biz call a “mamma pouch”. Most find this undesirable. If this might be an issue then going with a regular or even a long might extend the corset over this pouch, keeping it contained.
If you have a longer torso, the Longline might be right for you. This corset offers hip ties for a custom fit as well as a decorative touch. I have also heard of people with long torsos being described as “looking tall, but only when sitting down”. If you find the fit of a Regular to be a bit too short for you, or if your squish is still pushed to the bottom and shows, these might be reasons to wear a Longline, even if you wouldn't typically consider your torso longer than average. However, be sure to double check for comfort, especially while sitting down as the length may cause the corset to dig uncomfortably into the thighs (this may be somewhat relieved by loosening the hip ties).
Finally, in the Hourglass family, we have the Novice. The novice is the typical Regular length hourglass but it is only two layers of fabric, not three, making it lighter, more breathable, and slightly more flexible. Hands down, it is more comfortable. I like to think of the Novice as the t-shirt of hourglass corsets, others call it “pre-seasoned”. The Novice is special because you can put it on out of the box and wear it comfortably, like slightly stretchy jeans. The Novice is ideal for getting a dramatic waist reduction while being comfortable enough for longer term wear or wear in a warmer climate (i.e. Texas Renaissance Festival).
Timeless Trends also still offers our original silhouette, The Slim. The Slim silhouette comes in a regular length underbust, a regular length overbust, and a long underbust. The slim offers the triple layer, authentic corset construction and durability of the hourglass without the intense, dramatic shape of significant waist reduction. The slim gives a slightly more realistic looking figure and is sturdy enough to keep everything in the place you want it while keeping your organs right where they want to be. Even as a shorter person that typically prefers the Short in an hourglass, I love the slim line I get while also feeling comfortable and unrestricted (especially in the diaphragm area).
Because it is less restricting in certain parts, I think the Slim is perfect for all-day wear. And therefor is also my number one suggestion for those looking for back support or all-day stealthing.
Our Overbust is currently only available in a slim (yes, we are still developing an Overbust Hourglass!). Personally, I love this corset, but I am also partial to the underbust Slim. A big bonus to this silhouette for me is that you need no bra, the corset holds your breasts up from underneath, also a great relief for your back and shoulders that do a lot of the heavy lifting in a typical bra. However, many people are surprised at how much chest area is bare so keep that in mind when coordinating your outfit. For a more detailed write-up on this fit see Which Overbust Size is Right for Me?.
Finally, our newest additions to the Timeless Trends Family: The Libra and The Gemini. For now, these only come in one standard length and both give a dramatic waist reduction but are made for particular body types. The Gemini is made only for people with a large difference in the measurement of their hips and the measurement of their waist, at least 10 inches. On the opposite spectrum, the Libra is made for those with similar measurements in their ribs, waist and/or hips. Many consider this the perfect corset for a male build or a narrow-hipped or athletically built person. Both the Gemini and Libra offer waist cinching, back support and a sturdy build with the traditional three layers.
Ultimately, corset fit comes down to more than just your body and desired look. Everyone should consider how long they'll be wearing their corset on average, what kind of venue they'll be in (indoor, outdoor, hot or cold), and what they need from it (back support, waist training, comfort). Just like with high heels, some women can stand in them all day and be fine while others prefer comfort and might give up early, even on an expensive heel that might be considered comfortable to a seasoned wearer – consider how long you'll be in your corset and your own comfort level. Of course, it is also possible to let out the tightness in the lacing as the day goes on if necessary.
Finally, if you're still unsure, email us at support@timeless-trends.com, and we will work with you to find the perfect fit.
]]>Find below a size chart for each of our silhouettes (Libra chart coming soon).
Natural Waist In Inches |
Size in Slim/OB Silhouette |
21 – 22" |
18 |
23 – 24" |
20 |
25 – 26" |
22 |
27 – 28" |
24 |
29 – 30" |
26 |
31 – 32" |
28 |
33 – 35" |
30 |
36 – 37" |
32 |
38 – 39" |
34 |
40 – 41" |
36 |
42 – 45" |
38 |
46 – 48" |
40 |
49 – 51" |
42 |
Natural Waist In Inches |
Size in Hourglass Silhouette |
23 – 24" |
18 |
25 – 26" |
20 |
27 – 28" |
22 |
29 – 30" |
24 |
31 – 32" |
26 |
33 – 35" |
28 |
36 – 37" |
30 |
38 – 39" |
32 |
40 – 41" |
34 |
42 – 45" |
36 |
46 – 48" |
38 |
49 – 51" |
40 |
52 - 55" |
42 |
Natural Waist In Inches |
Size in Hourglass Silhouette |
25 – 26" |
18 |
27 – 28" |
20 |
29 – 30" |
22 |
31 – 32" |
24 |
33 – 35" |
26 |
36 – 37" |
28 |
38 – 39" |
30 |
40 – 41" |
32 |
42 – 45" |
34 |
46 – 48" |
36 |
49 – 51" |
38 |
52 - 55" |
40 |
As with all things in life, Halloween comes in multiple shades, levels and forms. Some go all out with their costumes - creating detailed and complicated projects each year, while others are happy wearing themed jewelry to the office and call it a day. No matter which end of the Halloween costume spectrum you are on, you can instantly enhance your outfit with the addition of a corset.
For those who like to thrift their costumes each year, there are so many options. One of my personal favorites is an “oldie-but-a-goodie”: Halloween Bride. This is fun and versatile because you can go so many ways with it, simply depending on the wedding gown you find at Goodwill (or your preferred local thrift shop). Find the biggest, poofiest, most obnoxious dress possible, then tease your hair as big as possible, wear as much makeup as possible. Enhance your chest with one of our bridal corsets and Boom: Texas Bride. Switch it up with your dress and do Undead Zombie Bride or All White Ghostly La Llorona Bride… the Bride Halloween Costume ideas are pretty much endless and pretty much all fun!
Easier, quick costumes are fun too! Use your existing wardrobe and a corset you already own to instantly become Catwoman (all black clothes, black corset, drawn on cat whiskers) or a Scarecrow (baggy clothes, coordinating corset, straw hat, decorative hay-colored filler or fake autumn flowers) or even your favorite Power Puff Girl (black corset plus a dress in blue, green or pink, matching hair-do)!
Of course, sometimes it’s just as much fun not to dress up as anything or anyone in particular and to just be “in the spirit!” Wear your favorite Halloween accessories with a black outfit and a matching corset! You could always visit our Goodbye Collection, buy a corset on sale, and then distress it or stain it to look Super Spooky™.
Of course, if going all out is your thing we’ve got options for you too! Dressing up as a favorite character from comics, movies or anime? Design the perfect corset for your costume or cosplay with our Design It Yourself corset option. Not only do you get to pick your silhouette and size, you pick your fabric, laces and front closures! Or fall in love with one of our already designed Custom Order corsets and create a costume around that! Do you love Dragons? Grab some scaly reptilian wings, a fantastic outfit and killer face makeup and be a Silver Dragon, Red Dragon or Black Dragon! (Order custom corsets AS SOON AS POSSIBLE for your Halloween plans as they can take up to 30 days to receive!)
No matter your dedication to your costume or your Halloween plans, a corset is a versatile accessory and probably a great addition to your outfit. Going to a party? Show off your curves! Handing out candy all night? You could use the back support! Doing nothing, just working? Stealth your corset and feel fabulous. Whether you’re using an old corset or splurging for a new one, we’re here for you. Make sure you get your corset in time for your Halloween plans and allow plenty of time for shipping!
]]>The most infamous (and arguably the most arbitrary) of these everlasting rules will be familiar to most Americans: Never wear white after Labor Day. According to this article by Kathy Benjamin the rule was entirely made up by the socially elite women of the early 1900’s. Specifically, the rich women that were considered “Old Money” came up with this rule specifically to feel even more elite than the “New Money” women who were not a part of the same social circles. Coco Chanel famously (or perhaps infamously) wore white all year long. So, if you want to be like “Old Money” then don’t wear white after Labor Day. But if you want to be like Coco Chanel then look at our amazing White Satin and Pastel colored corsets.
Of course, other Dos and Don’ts come and go with the season or the year. According to many online fashionistxs, the iridescent/holographic trend has returned from the early 2000’s and will be gracing the pages of our magazines for a while. According to me, it never went out of style and I’ve been rocking it since I saw my first holographic Pokémon Card. Whether or not I prefer Holographic or Iridescent is hard to say but either way, we’ve got you covered. According to some people that pay attention to designer trends, gold hues will also be big this autumn; hit two trends at once with the Iridescent Champagne corset.
In all seriousness though, there are a few things that simply go with this season and will look great with your corsets. Scarves are a great seasonal accessory that also helps to cover up some of the exposed chest area. Boots have been worn with corsets in this season for as long as the two have existed together. Pumpkin spice lattes have also been a seasonal fall staple since the dawn of time, and will accessorize well with your corset as long as it stays in the cup and not on yourself. Pro tip: If you’re clumsy like me and don’t trust yourself not to spill then forgo the latte altogether and get this corset which is basically just a pumpkin spice latte in spirit.
Lastly, remember this final and most important rule:
Busks refers to the front closures you see on most corsets. They are considered a traditional closure and use a simple loop and stud system to keep your corset closed. We use half-inch, flexible steel busks in all of our corsets. They are preferred for stealthing under clothing but can be harder to close, especially for those that have trouble with fine motor skills or have hand pain, etc.
BRASS or SILVER Swing-Arm Clasps
Our Swing-Arm Clasps are both functional and decorative! This closure is fun to look at and is also easy to open and close! They are heavier than a traditional busk and typically cannot be used for stealthing under clothes during the day as they are a bit chunky.
The Industrial Strength zipper closure is another closure that is beloved by those lacking fine motor skills as it is easier to close than a traditional busk system and can be used for stealthing as well. Of course, some just prefer it for its looks. Only in silver (for now).
A front lace closure system could also be considered a “traditional” closure, though it has never been as popular as the simple busk system as it usually has to be at least partially unlaced in front to get it on over the head, or entirely re-laced to get it around the body like a traditional corset. Because of this it is considered less functional than other closures but is beautiful and decorative. When choosing the front-lace closure for your Design-It-Yourself corset, the front laces will match your selection for the back laces unless otherwise specified.
]]>The Novice has another benefit, the one that initially drove its development - affordability. We understand that new corset wearers are concerned with our higher-than-mass-produced-corsets price point and wanted to offer a corset that meets our demanding, high quality standards while also providing an affordable choice for customers that may be new to corsetry.
For many years the Novice was called “The Gentle” corset. Earlier this year we wanted to correct the misconceptions that this name implied. Customers expected the “Gentle” Corset to have a more relaxed silhouette similar to The Slim, but the corset is designed in the dramatic Hourglass silhouette for maximum waist reduction. There is nothing ‘Gentle’ about the Novice other than its impact upon your wallet. Because the Novice requires little or no seasoning, and has an introductory price point we decided that the “The Novice” more closely described how we saw the corset: a perfect introduction point for new members of the corset community.
The novice, as its name implies, is perfect for a new corset wearer, but also for a seasoned tight-lacer on a budget. It is versatile and effective, creating a dramatic waist reduction with quality steel boning like any other Timeless Trends corset, with our lifetime guarantee and an affordable price.
]]>Thank you for being WONDERFUL!!!
]]>Welcome to Timeless Trend's own library of useful links. In the chart below you will find links to everything from which silhouette would work best for me to how do I hide my momma pouch?
Each color represents a different phase of corsetry from purchasing to owning to new product launches.
(color legend below)
green: sizing and measurements
yellow: silhouette differences, lengths and styles
pink: what can I do with my corset
red: logistics and informative media
blue: where to track all things Timeless Trends
**Please note this cup sizing refers only to the Slim Overbust. Cup sizing for the Hourglass Overbust is based upon the breast springs and tends to run large. For sizing assistance on the Hourglass Overbust please see our How to Use Use Hip and Rib Springs.
The easiest, most basic way to find out is to use the cup size on your favorite bra as a guide and compare to this chart:
Overbust size S |
A and B cup |
Overbust size M |
C cup |
Overbust size L |
D cup and up |
Of course maybe that chart doesn't help you because you are new to having breasts or buying this for someone else with breasts or maybe you just went through life without wearing bras. More power to you. Here is a chart with fruits in comparable sizes:
Overbust size S |
Lemons or Small Oranges |
Overbust size M |
Grapefruit |
Overbust size L |
Melons |
Finally, when it comes to a perfect, personalized fit, there are always nuances to think about. In this case, things to think about include:
Your personal breast and nipple shape.
No two breasts are really, truly, perfectly identical. Nature is imperfect and plastic surgeons are still only human. Therefore, some might find they need more coverage than others if they have larger areolas or high nipple placement. For example, a colleague of mine wears a B cup usually and yet the edge of the overbust comes very close to her nipple while I do not have this problem even though I am in the melon category with somewhat large areolas.
How much skin you do you want to show?
When wearing an overbust corset with nothing beneath it, there is quite a bit of chest and shoulder and yes, cleavage, that is exposed. Some people are comfortable with this and even prefer it (hi, that's me) while others prefer a bit more coverage. Some people make up for this with jackets or capelets or sheer tops or even large necklaces to feel comfortable. Others prefer to wear an overbust corset over a top, jumper or dress to keep a normal amount of everyday coverage which is a super cute look too!
What kind of support are you looking for?
The kind of support offered by an overbust corset is not the same as your everyday bra. There are no defined cups here and no straps, so the weight is taken off of your shoulders and held up and against the chest by the lacing in the back. This is where your fit becomes customizable. The best thing you can do is play around here and find what you like best. Personally, I prefer my corset to be tighter just beneath my bust at my rib cage and just a touch looser at the top so “the girls” don't spill over the top edge too much. Be advised that your cleavage will look different than a bra, even a push up bra, but can be arranged and coordinated with the lacing to get the perfect look.
If you still have questions after considering all of this, feel free to ask us on social media or email us at support@timeless-trends.com. And after that, once you've received your corset and have achieved your look, please share on social media and tag us @timelesstrends or use #myttcorset in your post!]]>
Our high quality, steel-boned corsets are the perfect choice for every person; they help emphasize and enhance natural curves while giving an entirely new meaning and feeling of the term powerful! Our most popular silhouette, the hourglass silhouette, is designed to be anatomically shaped and accurate for bodies of all people while providing a more comfortable fit over the rib-cage, support for the lumbar region of the back, a flatter stomach area and a dramatically defined hip. There is something so satisfying when seeing a cinched waist, uplifted bust and proper posture! We all have been told that the way to show confidence and power is to stand up nice and tall, shoulders back…whelp, there you go!
We pride ourselves on being able to provide almost everyone with the corset they desire. Do you have a size 18” waist? We have a corset for you. Do you have a size 55” waist? We have a corset for you. Although sizing yourself for a corset will prove to be the most difficult part of purchasing a corset, there are a few simple steps to finding your proper corset size: measure (in inches) where your waist dips in at the sides while remaining relaxed. This is your natural waist measurement. Reduce your waist measurement by 4-5” for our hourglass silhouette and 3-4” for our slim silhouette. I have linked our sizing chart and how to size guide here for more in depth information.
Now let me quickly touch on the subject of men vs women corsets. In short, to us, there are no differences. Although we offer corsets specifically labeled men’s corsets, all our product can be considered unisex. It was important for me to mention this as the other day my colleagues and I were talking about the labels of our product. One colleague asked, “why do we distinguish our product with men/women labels?” I wholeheartedly couldn’t find the correct answer because in my opinion, there is no correct answer! Timeless Trends is an ALL INCLUSIVE business and I quickly realized that with such labels the word inclusive just flew out the window. So yes, men, you CAN and SHOULD wear our corsets labeled women corsets. It should also be noted that we will be discussing this label quandary in our beginning of the week team/partner round table meeting.
Timeless Trends believes that our corsets are designed for all persons, and we encourage everyone to try one at least once in their lifetime (hello new bucket-list entry); body positivity, inclusiveness and self-confidence is what we all desire. Let us help you achieve these desires while also taking the time to say, Thank you for being wonderful!
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According to Google Dictionary, this is the definition of Cosplay: the practice of dressing up as a character from a movie, book, or video game, especially one from the Japanese genres of manga and anime.
Personally, I think that definition is a bit too specific and restricting for this still-developing craft. For one, I would include TV Shows. (Hello, Downtown Abbey Fans; I see you). Another thing I would change is the mention of manga and anime specifically. It is where cosplay has its roots, but I think the emphasis sounds a bit outdated and restrictive. Finally, I think cosplay is somewhat defined by its need of audience. Similar to Theater, cosplay is meant to be seen and showed off, typically at gatherings such as conventions or other fandom related activities but also with photos and sometimes online as an online presence; I think this really sets cosplay apart from Halloween costumes, fetish dress, or simple “dress up”.
As stated previously, cosplay as a craft is still developing and changing at a quick and exciting pace. Cosplay is now not even restricted to dressing up as an already existing character. I've seen plenty of people at conventions dressed as a character of their own design – also called an Original Character (or O.C. for short).
So, this all leaves us with this new, amended definition of cosplay: the practice of dressing up as a character from, or inspired by, a piece of (mostly popular) media, especially in a public setting such as a convention, media release event, or themed party.
Corsets are excellent statement pieces for your one-of-a-kind cosplay outfit! They can be used to give you a more dramatic shape and/or bring together an outfit from any genre! Timeless Trends offers a wide variety of fabrics and patterns that we’re SURE we have something for everything and everyone!! (not just Downtown Abbey and other period pieces!) Comic book characters are a popular choice and pair well with our bold colors and dramatic silhouettes, too.
As you have all seen via Facebook and Instagram, 2019 Convention dates have been published. Our first commitment is scheduled for July so that gives you plenty of time to get your piece prepared with one of our corsets as well as time to contact us for inspiration/recommendations! There are also MANY movies premiering this year that call to our Cosplay hearts.
Whichever character you choose to be, ROCK IT!! Tag us on social media if you happen to have a fierce outfit paired with one of our corsets…we want the WORLD to see!!
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First things first – here's what you're going to need:
A Timeless Trends Dyeable corset
Rubber gloves (check them for small holes – see pic below of my green finger)
Dye ( I used Rit brand dye like my mother always did but there's a great Instructables using Dylon)
I also used a small amount of dish soap and a cup of salt – suggested in the instructions on my dye.
You won't be able to just toss the corset in the washing machine so we'll be following the directions for dyeing in a tub or stainless-steel sink (most dyes will have this method in the instructions).
Before we can get straight to dyeing, we need to do a little more prep work. The laces on your corset are the only part that isn't all cotton. They are a polyester blend and should be removed before dying or else they won't pick up and retain the color the same as the corset. You can try dying these with a separate dye, one made for synthetic fabrics, or simply replace them. I will be replacing mine with silver ribbon.
Once the laces have been removed the corset simply needs to be dunked in clean hot water. No need to wash it before hand or anything but the garment should be wet when dunked in the dye bath. What I did was draw clean hot water in the sink (or tub) where I was going to do my dyeing, dunked my corset in the clean hot water, then took it out and set it aside (don't let it dry).
I quickly added my dye, soap and salt, to the water bath and mixed it really good before adding my corset back into the dye bath (again you want it to still be wet). My dye called for a teaspoon of dish soap, a cup of salt for vibrant colors (skip this step if you want pastels or a less bold coloring), about 3 gallons of water as hot as the garment could take it, and half of an 8 oz. bottle of dye or up to double that for stronger color (I doubled up).
Now all that is left to do is submerge both pieces of your corset in your dye bath (wear gloves!) and swish them around gently for about 10 minutes to ensure an even coating. You will see your corset taking up color quickly but remember that your corset will dry a few shades lighter, so you want it to be a bit darker than what your goal color is. Make sure the pieces are both covered by the dye bath and let them sit for 30 minutes to an hour, again depending on how bold you want your end color. I wanted a very vivid green, so I let mine soak the whole hour.
Once your corset has soaked and you are happy with the shade and saturation of your dye, all that's left is to rinse out the leftover dye until the water runs clear. Some suggest doing this in the shower, but I found that the spray nozzle at my sink was fine for this.
Once the water is running clear you can hang the corset to dry. Those with sensitive skin might want to hand wash with gentle soap and water to make sure there's no left-over dye that might be a skin irritant. Now simply re-lace, wear, and receive ALL THE COMPLIMENTS!
(Post pictures and tag us on social media! We'd love to see your project!)
]]>
Bones/ Boning: The bones or boning of a corset is one of its most distinguishing features. The bones give the corset its structure, running vertically all the way around your corset. They exist under a reinforced layer of fabric called the bone casing and “live” in the space between fabrics, called a bone channel. In the 1500's corset boning was typically made of very thin whale bone/teeth. Nowadays they are made of a range of (non-whale) materials including plastic. At Timeless Trends we always use high quality steel.
Binding: Like on many garments, the binding is on the top and bottom of your corset and can either match the corset's main color or can stand out from the main body as a design choice. Like on a quilt it goes over all the layers to bind them together.
Lacing: Lacing refers to the piece of ribbon, string, etc. that closes your corset in the back. It is both decorative and functional and is imperative in giving you your desired shape. Some people may notice a lacing gap between their corset's edges and some may not. This comes down to preference and fit.
Modesty Panel: A modesty panel is a matching extra piece of fabric that is meant to cover the skin that may be visible through a lacing gap. A modesty panel is not necessary and may or may not be included in your particular model. Bonus knowledge: It is also a term in furniture design and refers to the part of a table or desk that covers the leg/ankles from view.
Busk: These are the metal closures on the front of your corset. On most corsets they are a metal loop and steel ball closure. Some of our designs use a decorative but functional clasp-like closure instead. Interestingly, the busk originally was a one-piece section of metal that did not open or close and its only purpose was keeping the croon of the corset upright. Modern corsets favor a two-piece busk to make dressing and undressing easier. It is still necessary to loosen the lacing before undoing the busk to avoid damaging your corset.
Lining/ Interfacing: Inside layers of the corset that are unseen while being worn but still very necessary. The interfacing is functional and gives the corset added structure and shape. The lining is mostly functional as well and is the layer of fabric on the inside of your corset that goes against your skin or under garment. It's important this fabric is comfy.
Now go forth with your corset and your knowledge and answer those curious people's questions. And don't forget to tell them were you got it! *Winky Face*
]]>Read on to learn about our newest product and remind yourself of our original Lucy corest, the Gemini. :)
]]>
There have been so many customer questions regarding the Libra, as well as the Gemini (our first pattern designed by Lucy), since the Libra's release this week. What are the measurements of the Libra? Is the Libra made of cotton? Are the Gemini and Libra the same corset? Which one is right for my body type? Because of this, we thought that it would be best to give you all the deets in one place. You've come to that place!
Follow the links provided for thorough explanations of each corset followed by links to each corset's YouTube review by Lucy.
https://timeless-trends.com/pages/libra-silhouette-details (Libra details)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biZtssxqrm4 (Libra YouTube review)
https://timeless-trends.com/pages/gemini-silhouette-details (Gemini details)
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=lucy%27s+corsetry+gemini+youtube&view=detail&mid=A037DF48F9474FE7C5A3A037DF48F9474FE7C5A3&FORM=VIRE (Gemini YouTube review)
Do your homework and decide. Are you a Libra or a Gemini? Please let us know once you've decided! For us...there is NO way to choose; we LOVE them both!
xo- Timeless Trends
]]>
Having only ever attended one convention, RTX Austin, I knew that it was a must that I familiarize myself with this gathering and those who participate. Where do I start? What should I wear when I attend? Am I going to be accepted?
I learned that the first step is to determine which social class you wish to be a part. While it is clear that I am not royalty and I could dress in garb of the wealthy, I chose an alternative. I will be part of the middle-class. This class, I've learned is the best suggestion for a newbie to the fantasy world of RenFaire.
Now that I chose my social class, the fun begins....it's time for me to start constructing my outfit! Middle class ladies would typically be found wearing hues of green, black, violet, pink and any other color easily extracted from berries and/or plants. This garb would typically be made of cotton, twill, linen or wool. There are standard parts of each social classes outfits. Middle class attire should consist of: chemise, bodice, skirt, over-skirt, boots, snood (headgear to hold hair in a cloth or yarn bag...think hairnet...and yes, I had to google what a snood was), cloak/cape and either short leather boots, moccasins or slippers of the non bedtime type. Lastly, ALL ladies should have some kind of head piece; no one wants to be considered "loose".
I have many options to consider and I want to include each necessary part of this wardrobe in my costume. That being said, I am certain that I will be wearing our Green Renaissance Novice Corset as the statement piece of my outfit. This beautiful corset will be the perfect start to my perfect outfit! The color combinations of the greens, berries and yellows in the fabric of this corset are the perfect building block to my outfit. Additionally, the novice corset will allow for a more comfortable and breathable time while at the Faire.
I can't wait to finish and wear my costume. I have just a few more weeks before Sherwood Forest. I'd love to see any past costumes that you may have worn and I would love any advice from those of you who are diehards! My ultimate goal is to earn the honor of a genuine "g'day!"
If you are still working on your Ren Fest outfit and are in need of your statement corset piece, hurry to our website and use the discount code FEB15 for 15% off of your order! I look forward to seeing all of you at your Ren Fest so be sure to tag us, #ttcorsets, when sharing your creations and libations! Look for me if you are at Sherwood...I'll be the middle class lady in a KILLER corset! :)
-Shannon Green
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Your natural waistline is the area below your ribcage and above your hip bones. Stand straight and exhale to relax the abdomen muscles. Hold the 0 end of your soft tape measure in one hand and wrap it around your waist until it meets the zero end. Ensure the tape measure is flush against your skin and in a straight line. Keep it taut but not tight. The point at which they meet is your natural waist measurement; jot it down.
As the name implies, the ribcage measurement is taken under the bustline. Wrap the tape measure along the underbust keeping it parallel with the ground and your waistline. Using a mirror is the surest way to confirm that the tape measure is flat and parallel. Record your measurement.
When measuring the hips for a corset, you want to measure the 'high' hip. This is the area at the top of the hip curve or the iliac crest. Use a mirror to ensure the measuring tape is flat and parallel as you wrap it around your iliac crests. Jot down this measurement.
Hold the 0 end of your measuring tape with one hand under your bust and drop it down to your hip flexor. Try not to bend while checking the measurement as this may cause a variance in your true torso length. Ideally, your corset should not be longer than the length of your torso or it will begin to interfere with your ability to sit.
To determine your cup size, round your bust measurement up to the nearest whole number. Subtract your underbust measurement from your rounded up bust measurement. Record that number. A difference of 1 inch = an A cup, 2 inch = B cup, 3 inch = C cup, 4 inch = D cup and so on.
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Variety is the spice of life but more choices can sometimes equal more confusion. So, how do you figure out which silhouette will work best for you? That's where we step in! We're going to compare and describe each corset silhouette to help you make your most informed decision.
Timeless Trends offers 3 silhouettes: Slim, Hourglass and the Gemini
1. Slim
The original Timeless Trends silhouette, the slim (previously called 'gentle') is the least curvy of the silhouettes with a 4 inch rib spring and 7 inch hip spring. Ideal for shapewear, support or as a fashion piece.
2. Hourglass
Our most popular silhouette by far, the hourglass creates a dramatic waistline with a 6.5 inch rib spring and 10 inch hip spring. Ideal for waist training, stealthing, cosplay, burlesque and so much more!
3. Gemini
Designed by Lucy of Lucy's Corsetry, the Gemini silhouette is our curviest and most dramatic silhouette with an 8 inch hip spring and 12 inch hip spring. The Gemini has 32 steel bones as opposed to the usual 26 bones. Extra spirals in the center of some panels provide extra vertical tension to the corset, preventing wrinkling or buckling of the fabric and ensuring it stays smooth to the body. Please note that this silhouette requires a high hip measurement of at least 10 inches greater than the natural waist measurement to fit properly.
What creates a corsets shape?
The pattern and the shapes that the fabric is cut into that create a corset's shape while the bones support the fabric when being worn, keeping the corset smooth and comfortable. Bones or stays serve to support the vertical tension of the corset so that when you're laced in and it's cinching your waist the corset doesn't crumple up at the waistline.
What are rib and hip springs?
'Springs' refer to the difference between the circumferential measurement of the ribcage/underbust measurement or hip measurement when compared to the waist measurement and can be used to estimate the closed measurements of a corset. For example, a size 30 corset with a 4 inch rib spring and 7 inch hip spring should measure approximately 34 inches at the underbust, 30 inches at the waist and 37 inches at the hips when fully closed.
The Novice
The Novice is NOT a different silhouette but rather is a variation of our classic hourglass silhouette. Unlike the classic hourglass, the Novice is constructed with two layers of fabric versus three. Still covered by our lifetime guarantee, the Novice is just as durable as the classic hourglass but requires little to no seasoning. Previously called the 'lite' the Novice is ideal for beginners to corsetry or for waist training.
Stay tuned for more details regarding sizing and the differentiation between corset lengths. As always, we LOVE seeing you in our corset so tag us at #ttcorsets to be featured on our website!
Thank you for being wonderful!
Love and corset hugs,
Christina
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Cheers Lovelies!
You asked and we listened! Timeless Trends is now carrying mesh corsets! Made in our classic hourglass silhouette, the open mesh corset is breathable, flexible and supportive. There are a plethora of ways to wear this beauty but today I'm going to focus on two.
Corsets are extremely versatile and can easily transition from underwear to outerwear and vice versa. 'Stealthing' AKA wearing your corset under your garments unbeknownst to anyone, is a common way to season your corset, waist train, or simply to achieve your desired silhouette.
Open Mesh Corset by Timeless Trends. Dress by Hell Bunny. Purse by Killstar. Earrings by Decadent Mini. Bow Ring by Etsy. Neck Scarf by Dolls Kill. Fur Mules by Dolls Kill.
Corsets are too beautiful to only be worn under clothes. Put this beautiful piece of construction on display by adding it to your wardrobe as a fun, fashion accessory. An elastic waistband, like the one on the trousers featured, allows for easier removal for, ahem, bathroom breaks and the like. Likewise, they're easier to slide back up under the corset if they aren't low rise enough to sit below the hem. A bodysuit is ideal because it adds no bulk and generally snaps or velcros on, which also allows for more functionality.
Open Mesh Corset by Timeless Trends. Midi Claw Rings by ArmaMedusa. Cuff by Hi Tek London. Harley Quinn Bag by Rebels Market. Joggers by Kiki Riki. Bodysuit by Lazy Oaf. Zebra booties by Office. Flames wallet by LederkunstAO. Lips Compact on Etsy. Snake Earrings by Rebels Market.
Stay tuned for more great content! In the meantime, let us know how YOU wear your favorite Timeless Trends corset.
Thank you for being wonderful!
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