Which corset style is right for me?
Essentially, the differences between the daily wear corset models are the hip coverage. Let's imagine that I am going to make two corsets for you. One corset would be a short hip model, and the other would be mid hip. I would use your measurements to determine all dimensions for your corset pattern. The short hip corset would cover less of the hips and belly than the mid hip corset. The side coverage of the short hip corset would stop right above your lap measurement. The side coverage of the mid hip coverage would dip below the lap measurement, thus covering more of the hips.Since I focus on designing a proper corset for each individual, a certain hip coverage would be idea for each person. When a client visits me in the studio, I asses their body and measurements and use this information to determine what style is ideal for their body. This applies to all my clients from the daily tightlacer, to those wearing the corset only on special occasions. It is ideal to make a corset that is appropriate for the wearer rather than try to improperly fit a person's body to a particular style.
The basic difference between the mid hip and the short hip corset models is the hip coverage. If I were to make both models for you, the mid hip would be cut low at the sides of your hips. The short hip model would be cut higher. Both corsets would have the same ribcage coverage. That is, they would both rise up to the underwire of your bra (pectoral muscles on men). Being “long waisted” or “short waisted” does not denote a specific corset style, as either model would be made to your measurements.
A) The Mid hip corset is better suited for those of us that want more hip and tummy coverage. I design this model so that as much of the lower belly and hips are covered while still allowing you to sit comfortably. So, the bottom of the corset will be cut low over the belly, rise slightly to accommodate the lap, and cut back down low over the sides of your hips and derriere’.
B) The Short hip corset is better suited for those that are thin, or have a short pelvic length. There is still lower tummy coverage, but not as much as found in a mid hip model. The short hip corset model will be cut low over the belly, raise high over the hips, and then cut slightly lower over the derriere’.
So, what style is ideal for your figure? You can determine what style is right for you at home. It should not take longer than fifteen minuets.
You will need the following items:
Paper and a pencil.
A strait back chair.
1” wide belt.
A ruler or tape measure. We will be using these items to determine your pelvic length.
1) Place the belt around your natural waist. Adjust the belt snuggly so that it will not change position. A slight ¼” (~1cm) indentation into the flesh is fine. If the indentation is deeper, the belt is a bit too tight, and will possibly give the wrong measurement.
2) Have a seat in your chair. Be sure to sit with good posture. Slouching will give inaccurate measurements.
3) Using the ruler, measure down from the bottom edge of the belt to your lap (thigh). Write this number down.
If the number that you have is 3” or less, a short hip corset would be a better choice. This is due to your shorter pelvic length, circumference of your thighs, belly, or a combination of the three. A mid hip corset would make sitting difficult.
If the number that you have is 4” or greater, and you want more belly and hip coverage, a mid-hip corset may be a better choice. However, if you want less hip coverage, or are rather thin, then a short hip corset will work fine too.
If you are still not sure which style is right for you, please give me a call. Please have this information ready, as I will need it to help you decide what style is right for your body and needs.