A corset dress is one of the most flattering things you can wear to a Renaissance faire, and one of the most nerve-wracking to buy online. Will it close? Will it dig in? Will it fit your bust and your hips at the same time? If you are curvy or plus-size, you have probably asked all three.
The good news is that a laced bodice is more forgiving than a zipper. This guide explains how the lacing works, how to measure, what to do when you are between sizes, and how to stay comfortable from the gate opening to the last joust.
How a laced corset bodice adjusts
The corset part of a corset dress is a fitted panel around your middle with a lace-up closure. The lacing can sit at the front, the back, or both, depending on the dress. Pulling the laces tighter brings the two edges of the opening closer together. Loosening them lets the edges spread apart.
That gap is your adjustment room. A dress that fits well will close with a small, even gap left between the edges when laced snug. If the edges meet completely, there is nowhere left to tighten. If the gap is very wide, the bodice is too small and will pull at the seams.
Lacing adjusts the waist and ribcage much more than the bust or hips. The bust is shaped by the cut of the bodice, and the hips are covered by the skirt. So when you choose a size, start with your bust.
Front lacing and back lacing
Front lacing is easy to adjust on your own, which is a big help at a faire when you want to loosen up at lunch. Back lacing gives a smooth front and is often more decorative, but you may need a friend to tighten it. Look closely at the product photos to see where the laces are on the dress you like.
How to measure yourself
You need a soft tape measure and a mirror. Measure over the bra you plan to wear with the dress.
- Bust: around the fullest part of your chest, with the tape level across your back.
- Waist: around the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button. Breathe out normally, do not suck in.
- Hips: around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
Write all three down, then open the size chart on the product page. Every one of our products has its own chart, and the numbers can differ from style to style, so check it each time rather than going by the size you wore last time.
If you would like the measurements of the garment itself, email us and we will send them. Comparing them to a dress you already own that fits well is often the most reliable test of all.
Sizing between sizes
Most curvy bodies land in two sizes at once. Here is how to choose:
- Bust in the larger size, waist in the smaller: go with the larger size. The lacing will take in the waist, but it cannot add room at the bust.
- Waist in the larger size, bust in the smaller: the larger size is usually still the safer pick. A little extra room at the bust is easier to live with than a bodice that will not close.
- Hips in the larger size: check the skirt. Full, flared skirts give plenty of room through the hips, so you can often size to your bust and waist.
As a general rule, if you are between sizes in a fitted style, size up. You can always lace a bodice tighter. Many of our corset dresses come in sizes up to 3X, and some of them go further, so look at the full size list on each product.
A few corset dresses to start with
Our corset dresses are made in India, mostly in rayon, and many add net, satin or lace panels and embroidery.
- The Teku Corset Renaissance Dress has a net overlay and bell sleeves, in sizes Small through 3X. A classic faire choice.
- The Asan Corset Bell-Sleeve Dress pairs a corset bodice with bell sleeves, also in sizes Small through 3X.
- The Kavre Corset Gothic Maxi Dress has an empire waist with floral embroidery running down from it and satin trim, a good fit if you like a darker look.
- The Kupondol Corset Dress has spaghetti straps and an asymmetrical hem with a net overlay. Its size list runs up to 3X/4X.
You can see every style in our corset dresses collection, or browse plus-size Renaissance dresses and gothic dresses for more options. If you want a softer, everyday shape without a laced bodice, our plus-size boho dresses are a good place to look.
What to wear under a corset dress
What goes underneath makes a bigger difference to comfort than the dress itself.
A supportive bra
A corset bodice shapes your waist, but it is not a replacement for a bra on most busty figures. A smooth, wire-free or soft-cup bra in a skin tone works under almost anything. Wear the bra you plan to wear on the day when you try the dress on.
A thin layer against your skin
A simple cotton tank or camisole under the bodice keeps lacing and embroidery from rubbing. It also soaks up sweat, which keeps the dress fresher across a long weekend.
Something for your thighs
Long skirts and hot weather mean chafing. Lightweight bike shorts or bloomers under the skirt solve it, and they let you sit on hay bales without a second thought.
Staying comfortable on faire day
- Lace snug, not tight. You should be able to take a full breath, bend to pick something up, and sit down to eat. If you cannot, loosen a little.
- Loosen at lunch. A big turkey leg and a tight bodice do not get along. Front lacing makes this easy.
- Double-knot the bow. Laces work loose as you walk. Tuck the ends inside the bodice so they do not catch.
- Do a test run at home. Wear the full outfit for an hour around the house before the day. You will find any rubbing spots while there is still time to fix them.
- Bring a light layer. Faire grounds get cool late in the afternoon. A shawl or cropped jacket over the bodice keeps the look intact.
For shoes, accessories and what else to pack, see our plus-size friendly guide to what to wear to a Renaissance faire.
Frequently asked questions
Can I lace a corset dress myself?
With front lacing, yes. With back lacing, it helps to have someone pull the laces even for you, then you can make small adjustments yourself through the day.
Should a corset dress feel tight?
It should feel firm and supportive, like a good hug, but you should still be able to breathe deeply, sit and eat. If it pinches or leaves you short of breath, loosen the laces.
What size should I order if my bust and waist are in different sizes?
Go by your bust. The lacing takes in the waist, but it cannot make the bodice bigger at the chest. If you are unsure, email us and we will send the garment measurements.
What if it does not fit when it arrives?
Unworn, unwashed items can be returned within 30 days of delivery for an exchange or store credit, and orders of $200 or more ship free within the US.