In a corset, does white steel bone indent like cheap ones from HotTopic/CharlotteRusse who use plastic boning?

Question

With those sucky "corsets" from places like Hot Topic, the boning always indents or bends unattractively where my natural waist is because I'm not perfectly skinny (I have a 31" waist.) I'm interested in investing in a real corset that lasts me longer than a few wears and molds to my body rather than gets distorted. I made an inquiry about the boning in Heavy Red's waist cinchers since they didn't specify, and they said they use white steel bone, which is heavier and more rigid than any plastic. Would this end up doing the same after time or would it work as well as other professional places who specialize in corsets?

Answer 1

Okay, the boning is a crucial part of a decent corset, I would recommend investing in one that has steel boning (spiral, plastic coated or sprung steel) I've also heard of fibreglass being used successfully. Personally I go for spiral steel, flexible and comfy but also very tough and I've never had, nor heard of, any problems with it. But if you are looking for medium support rather than heavy then imitation whalebone should be okay though most plastic bones are utter rubbish - they will kink!
Don't buy it if you can feel sharp edges in the boning under the fabric, ask how the ends of the boning are finished.
You should also watch out for such things as lining - I have seen some bodices being sold as corsets that have no lining whatsoever! There must be enough structure in the corset to support the boning. I line mine with denim or what ever heavy, non-stretchy cotton fabrics I have around.
Watch the eyelets as well, there should be boning on both sides, If there is not the little buggers will pull out after a few wears. They should also be smooth on both front and back of the eyelet. It may be best if they are put through a lacing bone (steel bone with holes in it to support the eyelets).
Front closure - Be wary of hook&eye closures, go for a busk or lacing.
I've seen some real shockers for sale around here, all over the $200 mark - so price isn't the main sign of quality, but you probably will have to spend a fair bit to get a good one that will last years (the last one I bought was lined with coutil, spiral steel boning, front busk and properly supported eyelets at the back, lasted me 5 years until I got bored with it and butchered it for parts for my latest creation)

Try googling corsets and see what comes up, there is stacks of info on corset supplies and period costuming websites, it is worth doing some research before buying. It's also worth buying from someone who specialises in corsetry.

I know that was a bit long winded but I love corsets, I love how larger women look in them, I love how a good corset feels to wear!

Happy Hunting!

Answer 2

You need to try on as many corsets as you need before you buy. They cost about $100. A lot of shops in SF sells them. Who cares what it's made of as long as it gives you the shape you are so passionate about? Hope that helps.