To ensure a positive experience, especially for the first time, it is important to contain the enthusiasm and refrain from over tightening, which otherwise may spoil the first time wearer's experience. When a corset is laced too tight too quickly, it will uncomfortably confine the wearer because of lack of proper settling on the body. Also, discomfort may be caused by failure to remove the wrinkles of the underlying spandex tube or shirt. Note that the corset should not be worn directly on the body. Then, the lacing process takes time and only small amounts should be taken in at a time. If this is done properly the experience will be positive and long lasting. Training into a corset for a special event, such as a wedding, should start several months before the event, so that when the dress is made, the proper size is available. Otherwise stay with a 2" reduction. With planning on the other hand, a 4" reduction is a reasonable goal and even further reduction can be achieved, provided sufficient time is allowed for. As far as health concerns, we now know, that there are no known side effects from corset wearing or tight lacing, but the rule is to go slow and to loosen the laces when it hurts. For more discussion on the health topic, including pregnancy and corseting, look at the Health page, and also the How To pages.
Today, many women of all ages have decided for themselves that corsets do belong in their wardrobe and the steady growth in sales indicates that the corset is again accepted and as a highly fashionable dress item. They enhance femininity, grace and elegance as no other garment can do. They are stylish and give great confidence. The allure, the mystique and symbolism of the corset, the back-lacing and the enhanced shape are all unique to corsets. In the past, girdles and corsets were unmentionables.
This is much less so the case now. Far from being hidden, modern corsets are so beautiful, that they are being worn on the outside as well as under clothing. As far as figure modification, tight jeans and girdles can produce a flat stomach and improve the overall line, but they can also bind and pinch uncomfortably at the waist, something a corset does not do. In the corset, the pressure is evenly distributed, which makes it far more pleasant and relaxing to wear. Those suffering from lower back pain have found their issues permanently resolved by corseting, no longer needing treatment or medication. On the other hand, poorly designed corsets can spoil all this. Fortunately any of the makers listed in the links page all create well designed and constructed garments.
