Corset makes a comeback in Herefordshire

Staff in Herefordshire Council’s Museum Resource and Learning Centre will be helping the county’s students of fashion and costume to tighten their belts this year by running a Victorian corset workshop in Hereford.

Members of the public are invited to learn how to design and make their very own Victorian corset under the guidance of Ian Chipperfield, specialist corset maker and maker of reproduction costume. All ages and abilities are welcome, although students are expected to have access to a sewing machine and will need to have some basic sewing utensils at their disposal.

The two day workshop will provide participants with the necessary skills to create a pattern than can then be assembled into a five panel strapped corset. Guidance will be given on measurements, shaping the body, fit and adapting the pattern to other styles. Students will then cut out and assemble a five panel strapped corset as a toile. Each student will work at their own speed but will be encouraged to finish and fit the toile to a good standard. Construction methods will be explained and shown in practical demonstrations.

Any firmly woven fabric is potentially suitable for corsetry including linens, satins, taffetas, even lace as long as it is mounted onto stronger fabrics. Calico and Rigilene boning will be available to buy at the workshops as will other corsetry fabrics and boning supplies.

Althea Mackenzie, collections officer for costume and textiles, said: “The corset is making quite a come back as women continue to strive to achieve the perfect hour glass figure. Programmes such as Gok Wan’s “How to Look Good Naked” are encouraging women to make the most of what they’ve got by using controlling underwear – what better than the corset.

“Making a corset is a great way to study costume and the history of woman’s changing image. It also helps to improve sewing skills and inspires contemporary fashion giving students of all ages the opportunity to get creative. Some of the works will no doubt end up in art portfolios and exhibitions, whereas others will be worn by their creators.”

The workshops take place at Herefordshire’s Museum Resource and Learning Centre on Friar Street on Sat and Sun 21 and 22 March. There is a course fee of £60 or £45 for students, and 12 spaces available. Ring Althea Mackenzie on 01432 383033 to book.