Shopping for Custom Fabrics

If you're looking for a unique fabric to make a corset out of for one of our custom corsets, here are some recommendations and guidelines for fabric shopping.

 

Look for these types of fabrics when shopping:

  • upholstery fabrics
  • cotton -- medium or heavy weight
  • linen -- medium or heavy weight
  • brocade
  • jacquard
  • silk dupioni

In general, the thicker/sturdier the fabric, the better! Lightweight fabrics like silks and brocades can make beautiful corsets, but like a fancy silk gown, should be treated more carefully.

 

As a general rule, we do not work with these fabrics when accepting custom orders:

  • stretchy fabrics/knits
  • lace
  • fabric overlays/two layers on top of each other
  • anything with sequins or beading
  • velvet (unless it's upholstery velvet)

When selecting a fabric, we recommend ordering a swatch of it first so you can see it in person to make sure you like it, and determine if it's durable enough for your corset. We cannot guarantee the durability of any custom fabrics, since we have not tested them ourselves, but you can always send us a swatch of the fabric to check if we *think* it's a good choice for a corset.

 

Unless otherwise specified, we will use our best judgement when selecting a trim/ribbon color for your corset. If no suitable option exist from our supplies, there will be an additional fee for you to provide those.

Example Photos

The photos below feature model Elena wearing the same corset in 3 different sizes: L, XL, and 2X. Elena's measurements are 42" bust and 36" waist, and she typically wears a size XL.

Size XL

  • Front View

    This is Elena's recommended size based off of our size charts. In this size, she is able to comfortably close the corset all the way if she wants a more cinched in feeling, or she can leave the lacing with a slight gap if she desires that look, though the fit will not be as tight.

  • Back View

    As you can see, there is not a very dramatic lacing gap in either the front or back, but the corset is snug and still helps Elena achieve a proper corseted silhouette.

Size L

  • Front View

    This is one size down from Elena's recommended size based off of our size charts. In this size, she is able to get the corset very tight while still keeping a lacing gap in the front and back.

  • Back View

    Sizing down one size is a great option if you want to have a noticable lacing gap, or if you are planning on losing weight. Elena could even size down an additional size to a size M if she wanted a larger lacing gap.

Size 2X

  • Front View

    This is one size up from Elena's recommended size based off of our size charts. In this size, she is able to close the lacing gap all the way without having to tighten it too much.

  • Back View

    This is a great option if you are hesistant about wearing a tight garment and just want to get a "corseted look" without tightenting.

Other Considerations

Be aware that as you size up or down, the length of the corset and the length of the straps will increase/decrease by 1/4 inch for each size. Elena has a short torso, and you can see that as she sizes up to the 2X, the straps become a little bit loose on her, and the waistline starts to curl up a bit. These issues will not have a great effect on the wearability of the corset but are worth considering if you have a short torso.