Corsets are a beautiful and versatile garment that can be worn to create a variety of looks. However, putting on a corset by yourself can be a daunting task. Fortunately, it is possible to do with a little patience and the right steps. Whether you are a seasoned corset wearer or a complete novice, we have put together a guide on how to put on a corset by yourself.
When putting on a corset, it is important to start by lacing it loosely. This will give you room to adjust the fit as you go along. Once it is laced loosely, you can start tightening the laces by pulling them evenly on both sides. As you tighten the laces, be sure to take your time and do not overtighten them. You should only tighten the corset until it feels comfortable and snug. If you overtighten the corset, it will be difficult to breathe and may cause pain.
Once the corset is tightened, you can adjust the fit by tightening or loosening the laces in different areas. For example, if the corset is too loose at the waist, you can tighten the laces in the waist area. Conversely, if the corset is too tight at the bust, you can loosen the laces in the bust area. By making these adjustments, you can create a custom fit that is both comfortable and flattering.
Preparing the Body
Before you can put on a corset, you need to prepare your body and the corset itself. Here are a few tips:
Cleanse your skin
Take a shower or bath and wash your skin with a gentle soap. This will help to remove any dirt, oil, or lotion that could prevent the corset from fitting properly. If you have any cuts or open wounds, cover them with a bandage before putting on the corset
Wear cotton clothing
Cotton is a breathable fabric that will help to keep your skin cool and comfortable under the corset. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics, as these can trap heat and moisture and cause irritation.
Measure your body
To choose the right size corset, you need to know your measurements. Measure your bust, waist, and hips using a soft measuring tape. If you are unsure how to measure yourself, ask a friend or family member to help you.
Choose the right corset
There are many different styles and sizes of corsets available. Choose a corset that is made from a durable fabric and has a strong boning structure. The corset should be snug, but not too tight. You should be able to breathe and move comfortably while wearing the corset.
Break in the corset
Before you wear the corset for an extended period of time, break it in by wearing it for short periods of time. This will help to stretch the fabric and make the corset more comfortable to wear.
Lace up the corset
To lace up the corset, start by tying the laces in a bow at the back of the corset. Then, work your way up the corset, lacing the laces through the eyelets on both sides. Pull the laces evenly to cinch the corset to the desired tightness.
Tighten the corset gradually
Do not try to tighten the corset too much on the first try. It is important to tighten the corset gradually over time. This will help to avoid any discomfort or injury.
Wear the corset for short periods of time at first
When you first start wearing the corset, wear it for short periods of time, such as 1-2 hours. As you get used to wearing the corset, you can gradually increase the amount of time you wear it.
Lacing the Corset (Part 1)
3. Tightening the Laces
Once the laces are threaded through the eyelets, it’s time to tighten them. This can be a delicate process, so proceed with care to avoid damaging the corset or your body:
- Gently tighten the laces by hand: Start by pulling the laces to remove any slack, but don’t overtighten them.
- Use a lacing stick or other lacing tool: For added precision and leverage, use a lacing stick or a wide-toothed comb to loop the laces over each other. Pull the ends evenly to tighten the laces.
- Tighten in stages: Don’t try to cinch the corset all at once. Tighten the laces gradually, in small increments. This will allow the corset to conform to your body without causing discomfort or putting undue stress on the laces.
| Lacing Technique | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Criss-cross lacing: | Creates even tension across the back. | Can be difficult to tighten evenly. |
| Spiral lacing: | Distributes tension more evenly. | Requires more practice to master. |
| Zigzag lacing: | Provides a snug fit around the waist. | Can cause the laces to rub against the corset. |
Remember to lace the corset symmetrically on both sides. Avoid pulling one side tighter than the other, as this can lead to uneven tension and discomfort.
Tightening the Corset Safely
Putting on a corset can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these detailed and specific steps to safely tighten your corset when wearing it by yourself:
-
Locate the Lacing Holes
Identify the lacing holes on the back of the corset. These holes should be evenly spaced and aligned to ensure even tightening.
-
Cross the Lace
Start by threading the lace through the first set of top holes. Bring the left lace across the right and thread it through the corresponding hole on the bottom. Repeat this process on the right side, threading the right lace through the left hole on the bottom.
-
Tighten Gradually
Begin tightening the corset by pulling on both ends of the lace equally. Do not pull too tightly at once. Gradually tighten the corset, alternating between the top and bottom lacing holes.
-
Check for Proper Tension
As you tighten the corset, pay attention to the following signs of proper tension:
Signs of Proper Tension Signs of Over-Tightening - You can comfortably breathe.
- You can move your arms freely.
- There is no pain or discomfort.
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty moving
- Nerve pain or numbness
If you experience any signs of over-tightening, loosen the corset immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
Lacing the Corset (Part 2)
4. Find the Center of the Back Panel
Locate the center loops on the back panel of the corset and start lacing there. The center loops are usually marked with a small stud, ribbon, or contrasting thread color.
5. Working with the Back Lacings: Tips for Tightening Evenly
Tightening the corset laces evenly is crucial for a comfortable and proper fit. Here are some tips:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a) Crisscross Lacing | Interlace the laces in a crisscross pattern, looping one lace through the top of a loop on the opposite side and vice versa. |
| b) Start Tightening from the Waist | Focus on tightening the laces first at the waistline, then gradually work your way up and down towards the bust and hips. |
| c) Pull Gently | Avoid pulling the laces too tightly all at once. Pull gently in small increments, ensuring both laces are evenly tightened. |
| d) Check Symmetry | Pull the laces until the corset feels snug but not restrictive. Check in a mirror to ensure the lacing is even and the corset is cinched symmetrically. |
6. Finishing the Lacing
Once the corset is laced, tie off the ends securely. Remove any excess lace and tuck it into the corset. Trim the ends if necessary.
Fitting the Back Laces
6. Close and Tighten the Laces:
Once the back laces are fitted, it’s time to close and tighten them. Start by crossing the right lace over the left and pulling it through the upper eyelets. Bring the left lace over the right and lace it through the bottom eyelets. Repeat this process, lacing tightly but evenly on both sides, until you reach the middle of the corset.
At this point, you may need to adjust the position of the corset on your body. Pull the laces tightly to achieve a snug fit that cinches your waist but still allows for comfortable breathing and movement.
Continue lacing, working your way up the corset towards the top. For a secure and symmetrical fit, ensure that the laces are pulled evenly on both sides. Avoid over-tightening, as this can cause discomfort or damage to the corset.
| Left Lace | Right Lace |
|---|---|
| Start at the top left eyelet | Start at the top right eyelet |
| Lace through the upper eyelets | Lace through the lower eyelets |
| Cross the lace over the right | Cross the lace over the left |
| Lace tightly but evenly | Lace tightly but evenly |
| Adjust the corset position if needed | Adjust the corset position if needed |
Maintaining a Comfortable Fit
Securing your corset comfortably is essential for overall comfort and support. Here are some additional tips to ensure a comfortable fit:
**Lace Gradually:** Instead of tightening the corset all at once, lace it gradually, pulling the laces evenly from the bottom up. This helps distribute pressure evenly and prevents the corset from bunching or pinching.
**Avoid Over-Tightening:** While the corset should provide support, it should not be so tight that it restricts movement or causes discomfort. Aim for a snug fit that allows you to breathe comfortably and move around freely.
**Use a Corset Extender:** If you find that the corset is too snug when fully laced, consider using a corset extender. These extenders add a few extra inches to the back of the corset, providing more room for adjustment.
**Take Breaks:** Wearing a corset for long periods can be taxing on the body. Take regular breaks throughout the day to remove the corset and allow your body to rest.
**Listen to Your Body:** Pay attention to how your body feels when wearing the corset. If you experience any discomfort, loosen the laces or remove the corset. Never push your limits or ignore pain.
Accessories to Enhance Comfort
Some accessories can enhance the comfort of wearing a corset.
| Accessory | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Corset liner | Protects the skin from friction and moisture |
| Corset cover | Hides the corset’s lace and boning, providing a smoother appearance |
| Underbust corset | Provides support and shaping without compressing the abdomen |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. The corset is too tight or too loose
If the corset is too tight, it will be difficult to breathe and move. If it is too loose, it will not provide sufficient support. To adjust the tightness of the corset, loosen or tighten the laces as needed.
2. The corset is not sitting properly
If the corset is not sitting properly, it may not provide adequate support or may be uncomfortable. To ensure the corset is sitting properly, adjust the laces so that the corset is centered on the body and the top and bottom edges are parallel to the floor.
3. The corset is digging into the skin
If the corset is digging into the skin, it may be too tight or the boning may be poking through the fabric. To prevent the corset from digging into the skin, wear a thin layer of clothing beneath the corset and ensure the corset is laced evenly.
4. The corset is difficult to lace
If the corset is difficult to lace, the laces may be too long or too short. To make the corset easier to lace, cut the laces to a shorter length or replace them with longer laces.
5. The corset is not providing enough support
If the corset is not providing enough support, it may be too loose or the boning may be too weak. To increase the support provided by the corset, tighten the laces or replace the boning with stronger boning.
6. The corset is causing back pain
If the corset is causing back pain, it may be too tight or not properly fitted. To prevent back pain, ensure the corset is laced evenly and not too tightly. If back pain persists, consult a medical professional.
7. The corset is uncomfortable to wear
If the corset is uncomfortable to wear, it may be too tight, too loose, or not properly fitted. To increase comfort, adjust the laces as needed and ensure the corset is sitting properly on the body.
8. The corset is making noise
If the corset is making noise, the boning may be rubbing against the fabric. To prevent noise, wear a thin layer of clothing beneath the corset or apply a lubricant to the boning.
9. The corset is not breathable
If the corset is not breathable, it may be made of a non-breathable fabric. To increase breathability, choose a corset made of a breathable fabric such as cotton or linen. Alternatively, wear a thin layer of clothing beneath the corset to absorb moisture.
How To Put On A Corset By Yourself
Corsets are a beautiful and unique way to add shape and style to your outfit. However, they can also be tricky to put on, especially if you’re doing it by yourself. Here are a few tips to help you get the perfect fit:
-
Lace up the corset from the bottom up. Start by lacing the bottom two or three rows of grommets. These will help to hold the corset in place and give you a good foundation to work with.
-
Pull the laces evenly on both sides. As you lace up the corset, be sure to pull the laces evenly on both sides. This will help to prevent the corset from twisting or becoming lopsided.
-
Don’t over-tighten the corset. The corset should be snug, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable or restricts your breathing. A good rule of thumb is to leave about two fingers’ width of space between the corset and your body.
-
Wear a chemise or other undergarment under the corset. This will help to protect your skin from the corset’s boning and laces.
-
Be patient. It can take a little time to get the corset on and laced up properly. Don’t get discouraged if it takes you a few tries.
