Lara Corsets & Gowns

w Historically Accurate & Inspired Garments for Women w

Lara's Antique Corset Collection

Inventory # 2004.0078

Not for sale

This lovely antique corset is typical of the style popular just before the turn of the century, around 1898-99. It is a size 19" waist which would have been purchased by a lady with a 23" natural waist. This corset is un-marked and so the maker is un-known. In the late 1890s the new "strait front" corsets were all the rage. "Strait front" refers to the fact that the busk does not cup inward at the abdomen. This style would quickly evolve into the lovely and complex Edwardian corsets of the new century. 

Corset is constructed from two layers of fabric, an outer layer of purple silk satin and lined in a stiff plain weave cotton. It seems that the cotton flat lines the silk and they are sewn as one layer. Six pattern pieces per side cut with the grain grain of the cotton running horizontal around the body while the silk's grain runs vertical. All bones and busk are of metal.  3/8" wide bone casings of silk satin are applied to the front with a single narrow bone within each casing. Bone casings conceal the seam allowance which is sewn twords the outside. There is no waist tape at all. The edges are bound in a purple silk bias beneath the 1.25" wide black lace trim with ribbon insertion.

11.5" busk within a 12.25" center front length. 11 3/4" center back length with 13 grommets spaced evenly 7/8" apart.

corset measures 31" bust / 19" waist

(The antique dressform the corset is displayed on measures 37" bust, 22" waist, 40" full hip )

 Detail of trim

detail of bust

the original color poking

through from under the lace

inside view of corset

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