How Do I Add A Corset Back To A Wedding Dress?
1. Start by measuring the dress from the top of the back to the bottom hem, as well as across at the widest point near where you will be placing the lacing of your corset back.
2. Unzip or open up the zipper that is already in place on your wedding dress and take out enough fabric to make room for your corset back. Sew closed this opening along both sides to create a tunnel-like space in which you can insert your corset pieces.
3. Line up both ends of your corset panels with each other and sew together with strong thread into one continuous piece that will fit into the opening on your dress’s back panel. Reinforce this stitch so it doesn’t unravel over time when pulled tightly for lacing purposes - don't forget to leave enough gap for laces.
Contents:
Selecting a Corset
Choosing a corset to add back to a wedding dress is an important decision. The right corset should be able to provide the desired shape and should also be sturdy enough to handle the bulk of the dress fabric. A good option for a well-structured corset is one made with steel boning, often called busks or spiral steel boning. Steel boning provides extra strength when fitted correctly and will ensure that it keeps its shape no matter how much movement occurs during the ceremony or reception.
When selecting a corset, keep in mind that it must fit snugly around your waist in order for it to work effectively. This means measuring properly before purchasing, as ill-fitting or too-tight clothes can cause discomfort throughout the event. When fitting try on several different sizes and shapes until you find one which feels comfortable while providing just enough support for your frame. It may also be beneficial to look for a brand which offers customization services like lacing and detachable straps; these features can make adjustments easier without compromising on style or structure of the piece.
Other key elements to consider are material, colour and embellishments – all of which should complement both your figure and overall theme of the dress design. For example if you’re looking for something more traditional then opt for plain white cotton corsets whereas if you want something more romantic then opt for embroidered satin pieces featuring delicate lace trimming detail along edges or bodice area. With such variety available today there's bound to be something that meets your expectations whilst tying together entire outfit elegantly and stylishly.
Preparing the Fabric
Preparing the fabric for a corset back is an important step in any wedding dress alteration. If you're unfamiliar with this process, it can seem intimidating, but there are plenty of resources available to help. First, the fabric must be cut into two panels that will form the sides of the corset back. Make sure to mark out where your seam allowances are going to go before cutting. Once cut, set aside one panel and prepare the other by folding over each edge and ironing down so they lay flat. This will create a crisp fold line when sewing and ensure that all edges are finished neatly once complete.
Depending on what type of lace or material you've chosen for your corset, additional steps may need to be taken prior to constructing it on the dress itself. Lace is particularly prone to fraying; therefore extra measures such as applying interfacing or using fray check should be considered beforehand if you want your alterations to last longer than one wear. Having chosen fabrics such as silk require being fully aware of how easily materials like this can stretch while handling them during construction - often elastic thread has been used through pleats/darts for strength and ease of movement when wearing-so take care not tear delicate fabrics whilst making adjustments.
Once all preparation work has been completed its time to assemble everything together by carefully hand stitching each side onto your wedding dress-mindful not break needles due heavy fabrics. Also consider reinforcing seams if you plan on adding hooks or loops which could potentially damage weaker points on garments after multiple uses; backstitch areas around eyelets or secure buttonholes with reinforced stitches for example. Carefully pressing hems once complete adds finishing touches for professional look.
Adjusting the Fit
Wedding dresses can be challenging to fit due to the complexity of design and structure. The corset back is a great way to achieve an adjustable fit, allowing for minor alterations in size as needed. Before attempting to alter a wedding dress with a corset back, it is important that one has adequate knowledge of the fabric types and sewing techniques involved.
One should measure the waistline and adjust accordingly so that when buttoned or laced up, the dress will snugly fit across the bust area without any excess fabric folding over or causing discomfort. It is also important to make sure that there are enough eyelets for lacing up your corset properly; if not, adding more may be necessary. Make sure they are placed far enough apart so that when laced up you do not feel any tightness on certain areas of your body like your hips or chest.
When fitting yourself into a wedding dress with a corset back, try starting from the top down using small adjustments at first then gradually tightening as needed until you have achieved the desired shape and fit. Remember not to pull too hard - keep it comfortable while still achieving good results. Be aware that adjusting too much could cause strain on particular parts of the material which could lead to rips or tears in delicate fabrics like satin or chiffon. So keep things light and careful yet confident when making changes; this will ensure optimal results every time.
Seams and Boning for Support
For a successful corset back addition to a wedding dress, seams and boning must be taken into account. Seams are pivotal in providing a secure fit for the gown. A running stitch is an ideal stitching option as it can be used to close up the panels of fabric that will serve as the foundation for the lacing of your corset. Make sure that there is enough space provided around curved sections such as arms and shoulders so that movement is not hindered when wearing the garment.
Boning is another integral factor in ensuring proper construction of your wedding dress with added corset back. Rigid materials like plastic or steel boning should be sewn directly onto each side seam, starting from the top of bodice where laces are meant to begin down through skirt hemline; this ensures stability throughout bodice area and prevents excess stretching and sagging due to weight placed on laced areas over time. It's important to consider what type of boning works best based on desired look and feel–metal provides more rigidity than plastic but may create discomfort if one needs more flexibility while dancing or walking at their special day event.
Properly constructed seams along with appropriate boning material selection will help ensure a secure fit for your custom-made corseted wedding dress. The attention paid during these details will help you feel confident when wearing it down the aisle, knowing you’ll look great from head to toe.
Lacing Up the Corset
Lacing up a corset is an essential step in adding one to a wedding dress. Depending on the style of corset being used, the lacing can either be hidden or visible at the back of the dress. No matter what type is chosen, it's important to ensure that it provides adequate support and fits perfectly against the bride's body.
For those who prefer an invisible closure, eyelet lacing will create an elegant look with no distracting strings along the spine. To achieve this, first measure around the waist as well as down the length of both sides from front to back. Use these measurements to mark where each eyelet should go and attach them according to your desired pattern using a needle and thread that matches your fabric color. Once all of them are securely fixed, thread elastic cord through each hole working your way from top to bottom until you reach your starting point. The cords should be tied off at both ends so they don't come undone during any vigorous dancing.
On other hand, if a more traditional approach is preferred then basting stitch can easily be added for secure fastening along with crossed lace ribbons for extra strength. Begin by making marks at equal distances across center back and baste stitch this section together so that enough tension remains when finished tying off ribbon bows later on. Measure out two pieces of satin ribbon which are three times longer than required distance plus ten inches per side for tying knots; now start crisscrossing one piece over another from top downward and tie into separate bows on opposite ends before cutting off excess material as needed for neat finish.
Styling with Accessories
To complete your dream look, consider adding some fun accessories to your ensemble. For instance, a shimmering tiara or rhinestone-encrusted hairpins can be worn with your dress and add an extra glimmer of royalty. A statement necklace or sparkling earrings can also elevate any outfit while drawing attention up towards the face. Similarly, bold bracelets or flashy rings may be worn to create a more glamorous vibe.
With a corset back wedding dress, you have the freedom to experiment with both subtle and striking jewelry pieces – all within reason. Even something as simple as an elegant clutch bag paired with feminine shoes can bring out one's elegance. Consider coordinating materials and colors between clothing and accessories for an overall cohesive style that will not only look great in photos but leave a lasting impression on guests.
See also: Can you lose weight with a corset?