If you'd like to support my art financially and help fund future videos like this one, please consider joining on Patreon if you have the means to: www.patreon.com/vbirchwood And I know, I pronounce corset very funny! I’ve pronounced it like this my entire life and it feels unnatural to pronounce it any other way. I think it’s due to the language (other than English) I grew up speaking, as it’s pronounced exactly the same in that language 😂

@RexySmith

2 жыл бұрын

Didn't realize at all that you were pronouncing corset in a "different way" 😂 must be that English isn't my first language either

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@RexySmith lol that honestly must be it 😂 every time I post a video about corsets I get very brash comments criticising the way I pronounce it, so now I just try and own my pronunciation up front 🥲

@RexySmith

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood your pronunciation is just fine 🤗

@catherinejustcatherine1778

2 жыл бұрын

I agree that your pronunciation is just fine. I know several English-omly speakers who use the same pronunciation. Also, Google agrees, it's a French word, and anyone not pronouncing it that way is probably using their own language or accent as a guide for pronunciation. Of course, French has different dialects, so not even KZreads of French pronunciation agree with each other. My base opinion is: if people can be understood, that's what matters most. Respect the differences we all have from one another.

@carolinemaluca

2 жыл бұрын

I think I pronounce it like you and this is why I don’t notice anything different. When I speak in my first language I say corSET when I should be saying “espartilho”. lol Corset is so much easier. And who cares how one pronounces it, right? The content in the video is what really matter.

Costumes are not clothes. You'd think actors would know this. The actors comments about corsets are like me saying "I went to a costume store and bought my Halloween costume, it was a nun's habit. It was polyester and the seams itched. All nuns who wear habits are obviously feeling the same way, because there is no possible way their actual habits are made differently and from different materials."

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yep! But even deeper than that, I don’t think it’s the actors’ faults. I think it’s a system that prioritises profit over the comfort of the actors and also crew.

@trenae77

2 жыл бұрын

And the fact that Regency Corsets were probably the closest to 'modern' bras as anything at the time to boot ... Seriously, people. Do some research before you make these 'historical' shows!

@AliciaB.

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I agree with Mary, and tbh I think you've been a bit too soft with the actors. We don't have to designate 1 single culprit. There's a non-negligeable amount of bad faith on their part. I think they're using the general ignorance around corsets to blame completely unrelated problems on them ('it tore my shoulder'...) AS WELL as being ignorant themselves. Is it too much to expect actors accepting a role in a period drama to do the bare minimum research on the era they're portraying ? I mean, how on earth does someone play the role of an 18th century queen constantly dressed in 18th century garb and not even know what a stomacher is ? Also, while I believe the actors were indeed uncomfortable, it's not impossible they exaggerated a bit, going out of their way to demonize corsets simply because it's the politically correct thing to do. The trope of corsets as sexist/painful has been utilized by all kinds of people including, let's not forget it, feminists... (Of course, it isn't actually feminist because it essentially denies women's voice and needs towards their own comfort.) And since these actors play in a period drama they are _expected_ to say something about corsets. So they might well be playing on this trope just cause they have a pseudo-feminist image to keep. I have no evidence to back this up but... it makes sense

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@AliciaB. It definitely is the actor's responsibility to not perpetuate historical myths, but I wonder too how much of it is fear of getting attacked online for speaking about corsetry in a positive manner. Those who speak about corsetry openly and positively typically have two types of people coming for them (I speak from experience lol). 1) people messaging and commenting very sexualised things and making the person very uncomfortable and 2) people getting outright enraged over the fact someone could speak positvely about corsetry, getting extremely angry to the point of blocking the corset-lover. Any one who speaks publicly about the corset has to live with the understanding that both of those scenarios are very much a reality. It's happened to me and sadly to just about every person I know that has spoken out about corset myths. Anyways, went on a bit of a tangent there lol.

@AliciaB.

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood not a tangent, perfectly relevant ! And also very, very sad. Hopefully the internet's powers of diffusion will eventually make people more likely/willing to change their preconceived ideas.

I suspect part of the problem is that the production companies are forcing the costume department to recycle a lot of underthings and such that won't get much screen-time from past productions. I also suspect that in most cases the costume department are over-worked, under-paid and under-funded

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely! That kept going through my mind as well. Because the undergarments aren’t seen, they likely don’t need to be well-fit because they won’t be getting screen time. But that neglects the discomfort still that cast members might experience. The costume departments, and most film departments for that matter are very regularly over-worked and under-paid. I have a number of friends that work on sets as their livelihoods and you just hear the most awful stories.

@gabbytriestomakethings

2 жыл бұрын

As a person who has worn corsets theatrically, I’ve found them to be very uncomfortable because they were not made specifically for me and were I’ll fitting, and I was not given a chemise to wear underneath, and often times the dresser has no idea about how they should be worn and assume they should be tied as tight as possible. When I’ve worn corsets I’ve made for myself, they have been completely comfortable, and I can wear them all day no problem, even with my lung condition. On occasion in smaller productions I volunteered to bring my own corset.

@sideshowkazstuff3867

2 жыл бұрын

It’s also that they are going for a certain look. They are squishing the human body into shapes they shouldn’t go into. It’s not shaping the body for the era it’s shaping the body for a fantasy version of the era.

@hannahalmond466

2 жыл бұрын

I'm studying costuming at uni and hope to go into costume making! When you are working as a maker, time is money, and you're expected to be able to completely make 1 corset (Victorian style) in a day. There definitely wouldn't be time to pad out a dress form to each actor's size to make a bespoke pair of stays.

@ryano.5149

2 жыл бұрын

@@sideshowkazstuff3867 But...you can do that with the silhouette of the garment... You don't need to cause actors pain if you want that silhouette... (If watching Bernadette Banner has taught me anything...)

I was genuinely surprised to hear actors complaining about regency stays. I feel like this narrative, even though it's often presented by actors, actually hurts actors most of all. They're complaining that a part of their costume is hurting them, and instead of having it corrected, they're being told that everyone else who has ever worn it was also in excruciating pain so there's nothing they can do about it.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

So very true! It hurts them the most absolutely and nothing is getting done about it, even though there are very obvious solutions (which is studios funding well-fitting undergarments)

@caitlinhogan5258

2 жыл бұрын

Yes! It seems like it’s part of the general problem of actors’ suffering being glorified and normalized as part of the lengths they will go to for art rather than a workplace health and safety/exploitation issue.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@caitlinhogan5258 yes! This is right on the money.

@Fizzypopization

2 жыл бұрын

You do realize that actors and actresses especially TV don't necessarily have the power to change their costumes? Abuse is actually very common on set.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@Fizzypopization this is discussed in the video as well.

I feel sorry for the actresses that were tightlaced under dresses that make you look like a literal square. Idk but that logic is like wearing shapewear under a hoodie. #MakeItMakeSense

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yes same! I’m so sad for them that they unnecessarily had to experience such a thing. It makes no sense at all

@frutrace

2 жыл бұрын

The tight-lacing scene from Season 1 ruined any immersion for me. I had to hit pause, say WTF? and start laughing. Tight-lacing under an Empire waist gown? Why would anyone do that? Sure! Let's lace down a waist no one will be able to see. I understand the metaphor they were going for, but this ain't Gone With the Wind or Titanic, and that scene doesn't work.

@patsy451

2 жыл бұрын

@@frutrace Completely agree! I was laughing. And so many of my friends said "oh it was a metaphor" and I was like "well the surface of the metaphor doesn't work, so they should have used a different metaphor!"

A friend of mine wears corsets day to day to help her back pain. She made the mistake of telling someone who'd only ever seen corsets in these types of shows and OMG the rant from this person was incredible. In the end my friend got so sick of it she opened her blouse, took the packet of crisps the person was supposed to eat and shoved it down the front of her corset to prove the breathing room. It was hilarious.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Lol wow! That sounds like quite the moment 😂

I watched both seasons and the fit of the actor’s corsets were awful. The shape of the corset the main love interest wears in the second season looked incredibly ill fitted and you could see where it dug into her skin. Not to mention none of them were wearing the proper undergarments. These actor’s comments are really just a testament to how poorly the costumes were designed. They need to advocate for better fitted garments if they don’t want pain during their long work days when working on historically inspired films.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Oh no that’s such a shame to hear! I’m not sure if undergarments are seen the same today as historically. The fit of your undergarments mattered most I’d argue historically. Now people are more focused on outer clothes generally as they’re being seen. I’m not even sure the actors realise that they could be wearing comfortable corsets? Perhaps they do, but generally the corset myth busting is something more so people with some interest in historical fashion are exposed to. I also wonder if perhaps some actors said something to the studio or their production managers and the higher ups refused to do anything about it.

@Mokiefraggle

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I wonder on that, though. Even if the undergarments aren't literally seen (except for some scenes where they apparently are, if I'm judging some of the comments correctly? Haven't watched the show, myself), you can tell when an undergarment is incorrect or ill-fitting, because it can show against the outer garments. Like with modern underwear, panty lines are a concern, as are what fits of clothing a particular bra is meant to go under (I only discovered this recently. I thought that a "t-shirt bra" was just made of soft, t-shirt-like material, not that it was specifically meant to go under a t-shirt without making obvious lines!), etc. Why is it (other than "bras and panties are cheaper and easier to obtain) that they wouldn't put the same level of conscious awareness into making sure that these undergarments were creating a good fit, and making the outer clothes lay in a pleasing fashion? It's a shame that they don't understand that the same principles apply here.

@khfan4life365

Жыл бұрын

It also didn’t look like a regency era type corset. It looked more like a midriff revealing vest. You’d think a company like Netflix would have made sure that they made corsets that properly fitted their actresses.

I've worn a mid-19th century (pre-American Civil War) "working" corset which was made for me. It was *supremely* comfortable - much more so than modern bra and other underpinnings! However, as I lost weight and the corset became looser, it was less and less supportive and therefore uncomfortable. So yes, I believe these actors simply don't have well-fitting corsets and likely also may not have a basic understanding of how the body moves/should move when supported fully by underpinnings as opposed to now when there are few restrictions and virtually no support.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve had the exact same experiences so I agree with you! I also lost some weight and had an old corset no longer really fit and that was not comfy at all but as soon as I got a new one, it was supremely comfy again! I just think because clothes generally aren’t made like this today (custom fit) it’s a tricky concept for society in modern times to grasp. It has to more so be experienced firsthand.

@unrulycrow6299

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, I also have a corset I can't wear anymore because my body shape changed a tiny bit (more athletic) and it just doesn't fit anymore. The whole "corsets are so painful" imo should be worded as "the corset for my costume was ill-fitting, therefore uncomfortable".

@therewillbecatswithgwenhwyfar

2 жыл бұрын

@@unrulycrow6299 yes!!! THAT CORSET AS PART OF THIS COSTUME was painful… not the #ALLCORSETSBREAKRIBS trope.

@miashinbrot8388

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood Exactly. (I'm saying that specifically in response to your comment that custom fit is a tricky concept for today's society.) Instead we are taught to assume that if a garment we like the look of doesn't fit right, then it must be OUR FAULT for having the wrong-shaped body. We learn to expect that *we* are supposed to fit objects, not that objects are to fit us. When each garment was cut and sewn by hand to fit a specific person, well, then it did fit. That was normal (although of course people did lose or gain weight or muscle). It's a little ironic that the custom fit that even poor people took for granted in past centuries is now a luxury for the rich. We compensate by having a lot of very cheap clothes that may or may not fit well.

As a counterpoint to all the stage actresses complaining about ill-fitting corsets, I’ve heard musical theatre actresses in the West End of London say that they loved their corsets because they made it really easy to maintain a good posture for singing. Some of the most likely key differences, besides taking the time to get the fit right, are that they wear washable chemises (because being in a musical is sweaty work, and the costuming department would much rather wash chemises than corsets) and had time to get used to that specific corset during the rehearsal period. They also wouldn’t have been laced as tightly, because they needed to sing. In fact, the way they made sure they physically _couldn’t_ be laced too tightly was by breathing in as deeply as possible right before the lacing was tightened and tied.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s so cool! And makes perfect sense too. If I were on a production, I would choose to wear a corset in the exact same way! I’ll have to try that breathing trick when lacing up in the morning so thanks for that

@espeon871

Жыл бұрын

I think its more costume departments and production companies dont care abt the crew in shows, like just recycle whatever or just wear uncomfy things, and i dont think the actors are wrong to complain because honestly, its a valid complaint of like costumes hurting them. We need stricter labour laws which extent to even the smallest of details.

@ragnkja

Жыл бұрын

@@espeon871 Yeah, there’s probably a lot of neglect and “suffer for your art” attitude.

@carriemoscoe3159

Жыл бұрын

I am an opera singer and the same goes for us too! And corsets also help with singing because they push in so you use your middle-lower body to support your singing rather than pushing with your throat!

Bridgerton actor: "it was sooooo difficult to eat in the corset!" Me a costumier: "WHO TF LET YOU EAT IN COSTUME??????!"

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yessss a caveat I didn’t even think of!

@ah5721

2 жыл бұрын

sometimes the actors have to actually swallow the food and I think the lady who complained about it over indulged or the chef who made it didn't make it the "lighter version " I watched videos about when they make food to eat and food for fake

@raegan06

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha ikr, as a theater kid I’m not allowed to eat in a costume lol

@ShanRees

2 жыл бұрын

Way early in my career: having had a costumer tell me that) "No one told me I couldn't!"

@ShanRees

2 жыл бұрын

@@ah5721 I think they are referring to craft services and lunch break

Re; the “double corset” reference - from watching the show I think they’ve heavily boned the full bodice on Queen Charlotte’s gowns, based on how smooth and stiff they are, and then it’s on top of stays. I also don’t think they’re pinned to the stays, which makes sense from a speed perspective (there’s probably a zip in there, almost all of the gowns have zips) but in my opinion they probably wouldn’t need so much boning to stay smooth if the gowns were pinned properly. It’s been really disappointing how uncomfortable the Bridgerton actors were, there’s just no reason why they had to suffer for Barbie Fairy Princess Regency except that the show runners clearly have some toxic ideas of what a desirable persons body should look like and how to get it there

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I totally agree! A lot of it stems from this glamourised, Hollywood version of history. Yeah it’s meant to be fiction and fantasy, but if the experience of corsetry is going to be referenced as being akin to what corsetry may have been like historically, it’s just not at all a fair representation and only works to further demonise corsetry.

@ispellitjustg

2 жыл бұрын

I remember that Queen Charlotte's actress did actually say she wore two corsets.

In season one of Bridgerton, you see a character being "tight laced" into her corset, and she fainted. The corset was totally wrong for the period. I agree with you, you would think a costume department would know that corsets have to be custom fitted to the actress.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve seen this scene as well and it’s unfortunate that these myths continue to be perpetuated for dramatic effect, especially when they not only hurt the actors but the overall narrative too. I don’t blame the costume department though. They’re just doing their jobs and don’t call the shots. The big thing is the production company who decided they would need a misinformed tightlacing scene to elevate their show

It really seems odd, that there is no budgeting for properly fitted corsets - considering how massive the budgets for the custome departments of these shows must be otherwise. It would seem to me, that the cost of making a made to measure corset at least for the main actresses would be just a drop in the bucket here.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

You would think so, but I think it falls back to the classic narrative of big production companies who typically won’t spend money on that which won’t be seen on screen. Including PAYING THEIR CREWS correctly.

@ohifonlyx33

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood ah.... but are you suggesting the undergarments won't be seen in Bridgerton?

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@ohifonlyx33 many of them weren’t 😊

@LilyGrace95

2 жыл бұрын

It's about priorities a lot of the time. I was the lead in a shoe back in January, and I was the last person to have a costume fitting. I loved said costume, and bought it after the production, but I wasn't a priority because they had a tonne of costume changes to make for the chorus and I only had one outfit. Similarly, a lot of directors either cut corners or just don't bother with areas of productions that matter a hell of a lot to those who work in them; costume, hair & make-up, fight choreography etc.... Because of that, there's a lot less time dedicated to them, or they have a smaller budget. It sucks, but it's what has to be dealt with unfortunately 😞

@sumaphelia

2 жыл бұрын

@@elly542 THISSSSSSS. And all of those gowns are apparently custom made, so it's just a priority problem.

Thank you for mentioning chemises! Phoebe Dynevor (Daphne) had cuts on her back because she wasn't wearing a chemise under her corset. You can see actually see them on screen during a scene where she's changing outfits.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Ugh I just feel so awful for the actors😭 enduring that sort of pain was so unnecessary

@MortMe0430

10 ай бұрын

@@giulianabarbagallo1709 And even that as a visual narrative beat doesn't make sense. Like medical care back then was already sketchy enough, why would they add fashion choices that would produce cuts or open sores on the skin, i.e. one-way tickets to potentially lethal infection city? There's oppressive gender roles, and then there's asinine stupidity lol

Based on the fact that it's a really more of a fantasy show with "Regency core" style costuming, I doubt that the corsetry is made to be historically accurate to the actual regency era. It seems highly likely that they are using off the rack type corsets and getting tight laced into them. Considering the dress silhouettes being used, I think they could honestly get away with just using modern strapless push up bras and Spanx instead of using corsets at all. If they did a little research on regency era corsetry, they could find at least one example that looks more like a well fitted midriff modern shirt... It's still a fun romantic fantasy show to watch.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I feel that too but then reading an interview from season 1, they seemed to be really priding themselves on how accurate the underwear of the season was, even though the main scene I’ve witnessed referenced time and time again to disprove that is the no shift under the corset being tightlaced scene lol. But yes, spank and a push up bra or short stays would’ve totally sufficed.

@birdiewolf3497

2 жыл бұрын

See this is what I was wondering. Like given the silhouette, and the fact that they wanted to be cheap about the corset production, why not just have them wear modern undergarments and only have them in the corset if/when the scene calls for it.

@LadyVineXIII

2 жыл бұрын

Spanx are hell. You cannot tell me otherwise. I would rather go with a waist trainer and pad as needed.

@birdiewolf3497

2 жыл бұрын

@@LadyVineXIII Sure but I am sure actresses are used to Spanx though. Also I think a waist trainer would be too bulky.

@WaterNai

2 жыл бұрын

The trouble is, modern undergarments very often end up showing under the historical outer-garments. You can see the outlines and bumps in places they shouldn’t be.

I have a theory. Yes I believe the actresses did get uncomfortable and the concerning things said did happen. I suspect some of it is "misplaced" though. Actresses never complain or you get labeled difficult. It seems acceptable to cite the pain of corsetry though. Perhaps while wearing the corset the one actress did almost hurt her shoulder. What did they have her doing in Said corset though? Was she being told to shoot a horse scene in a dangerous way and it was the 8th hour of corseting on horseback and only the third day wearing it? Tbh I think it comes down to bridgerton is the show that shouldn't have these complaints and the fact actresses are saying the corsets injured them shows an endemic lack of concern for human safety present in all areas of Hollywood

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

You’re completely right. This is a symptom and sign of a much bigger, systemic issue and that’s of the very blatant disrespect big studios often have for the safety and well-being of its cast and crew.

@dismurrart6648

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I had an actress on a show getting cut by some glass we'd sewn too high on her top. She came to me with bleeding scratches and I removed the offending decorations without telling anyone just in case it would get rejected. The fact that was the culture of a major production soured me on theatrical work and I never went back

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Oh no I’m so sorry! What an awful experience for the both of you. I’m really glad you put her safety first.

@dismurrart6648

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood ultimately it made me feel good that she really appreciated it. When she introduced me to her parents that was the anecdote she told and I really appreciated that it meant as much to her as it did :)

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely! It was a caring and humane action and those types of actions stick with others for a long time 🥰

I actually made myself a corset recently and started wearing it regularly. It was supremely uncomfortable. My side was in terrible pain, and it would often last long after I took it off. I was concerned, since I was sure I made it properly, then realized the problem. The corset is symmetrical. I am not. One hip juts out about an inch more on one side than the other. One side is flatter and the curves of the corset which were supposed to mold to my body pressed hard in a place that could not give. I added a pad, and lo and behold! The pain was gone! But this took multiple weeks of wearing to realize and then fix. A luxury the costume designers might not have. Which sucks, because I loved my corset otherwise and it's pretty much perfect now.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

This is a *MAJOR* factour! One thing my corsetiere right away asked me is if my body is quite symmetrical or not because it makes a massive difference to comfort and fit, as you describe!

@mrsmorris265

3 ай бұрын

I'm looking for a corset pattern for back support, so thank you for pointing out how to handle asymmetry! I wouldn't have realized that this would be something that would affect the fit & comfort.

When I heard the explanation that corset complaints from actors were probably due to poorly fitted corsets, it just made sense. When I was young (teenager, basically) I found bras super uncomfortable. They chaffed, left marks on my skin, shifted around throughout the day. Some gapped, others I was basically on the verge of popping out of even though they were the same size. When I took it off at the end of the day, I had such a feeling of freedom and relief. I struggled to understand why people were willing to put up with them. Then when I was around twenty or something, I finally learned how to measure myself properly and I started finding bras that fit. Turned out my cup size was bigger then I thought it was. And god was that night and day. Bras were actually comfortable to wear finally. Side note: its ridiculous that I spent pretty much my entire teenage life struggling with bras. It should really be something that's talked about, even _taught_ to people at an earlier age. The only reason I learned was because I was suspicious that I was doing something wrong and decided to google it. I learned when googling that some lingerie/underwear stores will actually help you find a well fitted bra. That sounds like a good service, but I don't think that's a process that's for me. Even still, I find duds every now and then. I'll buy a bra that seems good, wear it a few times and realize that the fit is wrong or the straps loosen during the day or something. If bras are complicated to size, wouldn't corsets be _more_ complicated? idk, just makes sense to me and I've never worn a corset before.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

It definitely makes perfect logical sense that an ill-fitting, ultra tight corset would be uncomfortable, but I also just feel like it isn’t usual to have custom fit clothing in our modern world, when historically that was completely the norm. So I’m wondering if that perhaps has a play in this all. Also, as you make all these great points about the bra and how many have to just suffer with it being uncomfortable, I think companies often don’t feel pressure to often more customisable sizing or a wider array of sizes because modern society generally again doesn’t expect things to fit custom or perhaps aren’t even used to the comfort something very well-fit and bespoke feels. There’s also the element of cost too and the inaccessibility.

@octo448

2 жыл бұрын

Having worked in a store that fits people of "non standard" body shape and size into bras for years, I can't even tell you the number of people who came in saying "I just want the loosest, lightest bra you have because I hate bras but I have to wear them anyway." and who left SHOCKED when I was able to fit them into something that was none of those things, but that didn't hurt them and felt supportive and comfortable. Some of the big stores (Not naming names but it rhymes with Pictoria Decret) teach their employees specifically BAD ways to fit people so that they can carry a smaller number of sizes, which is cheaper for the store in the long run. The goal of these kinds of fittings is often to maximize visual appeal without taking comfort or wear-ability into account, and the employees are taught or pressured into saying things like "It doesn't feel good now because it isn't broken in yet" when the garment is never going to feel good because it's the wrong size or cut. I have had people cry in my store when they realized that properly supportive undergarments could help relieve their back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and allow mass-produced clothing that many of us have to rely on to fit better. It's tragic that so many people are sold this lie that they have to wear things that they don't want to wear, and doubly so when it doesn't have to be uncomfortable in the first place. Ultimately I wish people didn't have to wear a bra at all if they don't want to, but if they must, I wish people would be able to feel comfortable in their bras.

@maryapatterson

Жыл бұрын

If you are well fitted, your bra should feel like your knickers ie not notice that it's on! I use to do bra fitting in the UK and let me just state for the record, it's not just about numbers, it's also about the shape of the breast and how they hang. You then need to find a bra that fits your breast shape! Why it's more difficult to measure yourself, is that you need to see the back of the bra and to check the bra is lying flat and level all the way round.Then you make the final adjustments. You should also get measured more than once in your life! Your boobs are not your shoes! Women have children and breast feed.People put on and lose weight on a regular basis! It's important that you are wearing the correct bra, just so that you are comfortable!

Honestly this bothers me from a workplace safety standpoint. Maybe safety isn't the right word, but it seems wrong to put actors through this needlessly. I know some opera singers have their own corsets that they will rehearse in (and sometimes also perform in) and I wonder if this is something screen actors ever do. Would a costume department be OK with someone using their own custom corset on-screen?

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s exactly it! It’s the fact that big production companies continuously neglect the well-being’s of their cast and crew. This is just a smaller issue amongst a much larger problem in the entertainment industry, and you’d think by now things would be done about it. It would be interesting to know if actors would be allowed to bring their own. But at the same time, they also shouldn’t have to spend money on undergarments that fit them well because the studios won’t provide them with such a thing.

@WaterNai

2 жыл бұрын

Not that they should have to, but I was also wondering about actors investing in their own that they can bring and wear under clothes for any shots where the underthings aren’t on camera.

@Tazzie1312

2 жыл бұрын

Apparently in Lizzie, Chloë Sevigny brought actual vintage clothes to set for the costumes. That is dedication.

@alyamcvay9831

2 жыл бұрын

Saftey also seems like an issue. They can't really run if there is an emergency.

@LynnHermione

2 жыл бұрын

@@WaterNai most of these acraesses dont care to learn history and are happy dragging corsets to feel Feminists (tm). I blame Emma Watson

I for one can vouch for the positive effects of wearing stays. I made myself a pair of 18th century inspired stays, mainly because I like the silhouette, but I inadvertently found out it helps a LOT with my anxiety. I think it has to do with how it helps me maintain a good posture. Perhaps it's the slight hugging pressure too, but I've tested several times trying to replicate "stays posture without stays" for entire days, and although it's quite strenuous for my back, I did get the same effects in terms of calm and confidence, and noticed more anxiety on days when I slouch more. I knew posture had "some" impact on stress levels and confidence, but I was absolutely not expecting such a day and night effect, and I was certainly not thinking of that when I made my stays. It's quite a strike of luck, and although I initially intended to only wear it on occasions, I now wear it on most days and am starting to work on a front lacing version to make that easier. Not that everyone will necessarily get the same benefits, not all anxieties have the same causes and therefore remedies, but it's really interesting.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for sharing all this! I’ve had a similar experience with corsetry and the way it decreases anxiety and increases confidence due to the upright posture and hug-like nature, so I can very much relate to everything you just said 🥰

@AliciaB.

2 жыл бұрын

That's an encouraging thought. I struggle with anxiety too, so now I can't wait to get started on my 1st corsetry project

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@AliciaB. oooo that's exciting! it'll be great 😊

@EmmaAppleBerry

2 жыл бұрын

Omg what pattern did you use? Ive been dying to find stays/corset pattern thats actually accurate and i can make without being some super pro.

@lasphynge8001

2 жыл бұрын

@@EmmaAppleBerry Sorry, mine are self-drafted... I'm not a "super pro", I just dove in head first. It's merely a process of trial and error, and even with an already made pattern you'll go through a phase of mockups (likely plural) and adjustments to your specific measurements, shape and comfort, but I understand it can be intimidating to start from nothing at all. I haven't tried it yet, but do hear a lot of people are pleased with the Augusta stays pattern, it sounds like a good starting point, and there is this very convenient fit troubleshooting page that I even used in my own process: ladyofthewilderness.wordpress.com/tag/augusta-stays-pattern/

I think at this point it might even be done on purpose to either have ill-fitting corsets put on these actors so people can then keep the narrative of "corsets were (and are) misogynist torture" going ad nauseam. Or forcing the waist smaller is supposed to look hot even if the actors can't breathe, take your horrible pick. Somehow an executive idiot gets the final say on how things should look more than the flipping costume department that actually has to research and make the garments. I can't facepalm any harder, my forehead will be concave.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Hahahaha please don’t concave your forehead! But yes, definitely. It would take them (probably the production company that calls the shots) setting the narrative aside and going, “oh! Maybe we should spread realistic information about corsetry instead!”

I think another part of it is that the aesthetic priorities of the show include concessions to contemporary beauty standards combined with the supposed interest in historical accuracy. I’m not confident that they trust their audience to embrace the figure a more relaxed and historically accurate stays would produce. So they’re trying to sell a feminine look that is perfect by contemporary standards using tools that weren’t meant to do that. Like, “stays, but it also has to be spanx.”

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I think you’ve hit the nail on the head with this one. Now I’m also imagining stays with Spanx attached to the lower half 😂

This is SO true!! I’ve been a daily corset wearer as well as making corsets for others. Everyone I’ve made a corset for has told me they’re giving up their bras for it.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kat for sharing this and for confirming my feelings about it too! I’ve heard in particular from friends who have larger busts that they much prefer corsets over bras, and it makes sense hearing how often bras fall short when it comes to larger busts.

@katwitanruna

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood Absolutely!! I’m just a DD/E but I’ve made them for much larger ladies and they’ve confirmed that a corset is not just more comfortable but more secure as well.

@elizabethwalsh1091

2 жыл бұрын

Can you share a link please? I've broken my collar bone and must find functional support for my Gs

@princekrazie

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Can I maybe negotiate buying a corset from you, or do you only do local business?

@katwitanruna

2 жыл бұрын

@@elizabethwalsh1091 If you just want a supportive corset for wearing around what I use is an Elizabethan corset. I’ve made this up in everything from a five year old girl to a women’s size 35US. www.elizabethancostume.net/custompat/

To me the sad thing about this is, that if the actresses knew that corsets could/should be comfortable, they could say in Interviews, that the corsets were ill fitting. If they presented it this way(maybe also said that there wasn't a budget for a proper fitting) and not as something they just have to accept, there would probably be public outcry and pressure on the production company to rectify it. I think it's a shame that all the clothing on the show appears to be custom made for it and the underthings are still not fitted properly.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I completely agree. That would have been a more accurate description of corset wearing generally and would have provided a lot more room for nuance. I guess though that’s the classic cognitive default for some, to think in black and white terms, but like most things in life, the truth is typically a lot more grey. The same can be said for corsets! There are a lot of reasons why one might love them and reasons why one might not, but fit, construction, material, etc. all play such a big role in that experience.

The poor fit of actors corsets is a labor issue. There needs to be enough of a budget for properly fitting corsets, including seasoning time.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Agreed 100%! The crew face these same issues and it sucks to see studio profit continuously placed above human rights.

Even my sister that studied sewing told me something about how horrible corsetry was etcetc.... Im assuming the teachers must have said so.It's a very ingrained think apparently 😅 I can't see how a corset could be much worst than a modern Ill fitted bra 😂 after trying hundreds of bras of different brands shape/size/ store, taking my own custom measurements from online website teaching you "your true size" and still never found one properly fitted for my body 😂 I would gladly try a well fitted corset any day .

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah it definitely probably is taught in most fashion schools and programmes! I’ve even heard this being taught in history classes. It’s a frustrating narrative because it contradicts the experiences of people who have anecdotal evidence of them being comfortable (like daily corset wearers). Ill-fitting bras suck. I used to hate bras but I absolutely love the corset, so I think what you’re saying is very true.

@RozWBrazel

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood have you ever seen that Karolina Żebrowska video "curb your corset stereotypes" Hollywood really needs to just be quiet and actually try fitting these women properly

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah it’s a great video! Hahaha

@TheRetroFanatic

2 жыл бұрын

As someone with a large bust and smallish rib cage, a crappy corset type garment I made is way more comfortable than any bra! It spreads the weight down your whole torso.

@danibee

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheRetroFanatic I hear you there. My bra size is /between/ 32 DD and DDD. Bra bands that aren't made to securely hold themselves around my ribs, and bra shoulder straps that aren't adjustable enough are the bane of my existence. And my size is hard enough to find anywhere outside of a Victoria's secret-type-place; VS's quality has severely decreased over the last 5 years and I struggle to find a well-made and well-fitting bra. I've thought a lot recently that a proper custom corset would do wonders for my comfort and posture.

YES! Thank you for this video! I don't wear corsets daily or even have much experience with them, but I *hate* how media exacerbates the myth that corsets are painful to wear. I like to compare it to ill-fitting shoes. No one would say "shoes are so painful to wear, I can't understand how people do/did it" after wearing a pair that were too small. Of course you're going to struggle to walk (or eat in a corset) if they don't fit! How is that the shoes' fault? Ask for a better-fitting pair of stays, just like you'd ask for shoes your size, if it's painful to wear. I get that at the stage or film set, your costume probably won't be comfortable, but it shouldn't be painful. Another problem with media perpetuating and exaggerating this myth about corsets is that the actors probably expect them to be painful to wear, as if that's how they were meant to be. They'll complain, but everyone around them also think it's normal and do nothing. Then, of course, it may not be easy to modify the size on the fly if the corset was made with the wrong measurements to begin with. The best way to bust this myth is to keep talking about it and I think you made the right choice publishing this video early while the topic is hot. Well done! (Edit: spelling/grammar)

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Maia! I completely agree with all the points you make. The analogy to shoes is especially apt also because leather shoes often take time to soften and get comfortable as well, just like with corsets.

@dsstudio76

2 жыл бұрын

American modern fashion is all about knits and spandex. This is why! Not elegant at all! 🇧🇷✂️

I've worn corsets or a pair of stays for a couple of years and it helps my back pain and posture so much.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome to hear!

Just subscribed to your channel! Thank you for this video! My daughter wore a back brace for two years because of her scoliosis. She feels much better with support garments. We often hear people repeating the same silly stereotype of "torture corsetry" and it does get tiresome having to explain the pros of custom corsetry.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for the sub! I’m sorry that your daughter has to constantly hear this narrative even though she knows firsthand how supportive corsetry can be. It’s a very frustrating thing! Also the amount of people who get attacked online for speaking about how corsetry has helped them, it’s really challenging. I’ve even had people come at me for talking about the comforts of corsetry and usually when I ask them if they’ve ever worn a corset themselves, their answer is no.

Last summer I attempted to make a pair of half stays (it's currently in a time out). But, every time, I asked Mister Husband to lace me up the back it would be a recreation of the stooopid Gone With The Wind tight lacing scene. With me gasping out 'tight lacing is Not a thing'. He got the hang of it, but it kind of just reinforces just how ingrained the anti-corset knowledge has seeped into current thinking. Good video. Thanks. Hope you're doing well. Cheers. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

The Gone with the Wind scene is so silly hahaha. Thanks so much!! I hope you’re both doing well 🥰

@nessyness5447

2 жыл бұрын

Haha i normally can tie them myself, but when my mother helps me i do have to remind me that is supposed to be just adjusted so it supports, not tight to the point of being constricting.

@mce1939

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood Enjoyed your video! I am a Windie of almost 40 years, and I have never loved Scarlett's 2 corset scenes (there are 2 in the film) from a historical accuracy standpoint. I have a GWTW dress that I wear over period appropriate undergarments made to my measurements, and yeah, I've never had any issues with the corset. The first corset scene in the film is meant to be silly & exaggerated. We are supposed to see that Scarlett is overly-vain, and the producer went for a more comical mood in that scene. He does this several times in the film, contrasting comedic scenes with dramatic scenes. In the book, Scarlett is not attractive on the outside or inside. In the film, she's obviously beautiful on the outside, but not the inside. MM went for a lot of character exaggerations in the novel based on stories she heard as a child. So, she exaggerated Scarlett to the Nth degree, making her a shallow, vain 16-year old in the opening, mostly concerned with having the smallest waist in 3 counties. Just thought that would be some interesting info on that scene.

I want to give some insight as an actor: what actors say in interviews, particularly for high profile shows, is highly vetted by the higher ups. And so if an actress wants to speak up and bring attention to the larger issues around the sometimes nearly abusive costuming decisions made by a production, sometimes the only way they possibly can is to frame it in a "all historical women were so oppressed, we're so lucky to be liberated, ALL corsets no matter what are evil" because if they said, "hey, there are ways to make and wear corsets that don't cause actual injury, but I was injured on this set" then it is a condemnation of the specific production and this can get you censored at best, blacklisted at worse. Hollywood is just... a mess.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your perspective! It really is a mess, and I suppose this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the toxic behaviours and environment. I wonder if we’ll ever see a fair and just film industry.

*MY FRIEND* is an actress - she just finished filming "The Outlaws" with Christopher Walken - some days she was on a Welsh hillside in the rain for 14 hours AT NIGHT...!!! Making movies is about as far from glamorous as you can imagine. Its 90% standing around waiting for everything to be ready for that one take, then another 3 hours of waiting around to do it again, and again...

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I used to work on sets occasionally, and yep, it’s an incredibly un-glamorous job definitely. But that’s the part of it people don’t normally see as the camera can polish everything up and make it look perfect.

@jayrlbd8355

Жыл бұрын

"The Outlaws" was utterly amazing!! I'm sorry your friend had such a rough time filming it, but please tell her how beloved the show is!!!

I think some of the issue with actors and corsets can be that people like me, back when I did dressing on shows, would put actors into them with zero knowledge of what I was doing. I just did it up really tight. I could easily have been tight lacing it. I only got interested in fashion history a lot later.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a very interesting perspective and makes perfect sense! Not everyone that works in costuming would be interested in learning about historical fashion, so it’d make sense that the instinct would just be to tightlace actors in.

I imagine even wearing period accurate and well fitting corsets would be uncomfortable to most modern clothes wearers. How many women are even used to wearing full length skirts today? Even with men's clothing the tight fitted suiting, high collar, cravats and breeches? Id feel claustrophobic on the top half and naked from the knees down. And on the reverse imagine putting some poor woman from the 1810s in low rise skinny leg jeans! Im sure she's find that just as uncomfortable.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I understand what you mean! I think it really just depends person to person. I personally feel very comfortable in historical clothes and find them to be more practical than modern clothes, but definitely there will be many people who wouldn’t feel the same. I think it’s just the narrative itself that implies corsets were awful torture devices that is harmful not only to present society but past society too. I’m sure historically many people loved the corset and some probably disliked it, like what we see going on during the reform dress movement. Same with today.

@irismeyer9143

2 жыл бұрын

I was about to say that I’m used to full length skirts, so that’s one person, but most of my skirts are ankle length. And anyways that reply would really only prove that I’m weird. And I am. Once I wore pants to school as a joke for disguise day and a lot of people commented on it, and some of my friends who knew I was doing it were still shocked. That was a tangent, but I guess you could try to relate it to this discussion. Maybe that there are people even in modern times uncomfortable with modern clothes? But really I just wanted an excuse to talk about my disguise.

@ah5721

2 жыл бұрын

when you have petticoats and bloomers under your skirts you dont feel naked underneath. I actually feel comfortable in the knee length underwear personally - no thigh touching and warmer upper legs

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@ah5721 I’m the same as you! Drawers and petticoats beats modern clothes any day for me.

@ah5721

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood mine undergarments are like spanks with out the discomfort of being poured in. No thigh rub for me ☺and a ankle length skirt is great!

I have noticed during both seasons one and two instances where it looked like the undergarments the actresses wore weren't suited to their body shape, size, or height and it really confused me. Even worse was the scene where they showed Daphne being dressed in a corset without any kind of underlayer

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Ah yes the infamous tightlacing and pain scene. I think there are other ways to express a character’s vanity

@madisonwaycaster9832

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood We already had Kiera Knightly fainting off a cliff due to tight lacing in Pirates of The Caribbean 1, I just feel like at this point it's less inaccurate historical depictions and has escalated into a tired cliché.

Oh this even got my husband, who has picked up much through a kind of KZread osmosis, talking - in particular he wanted to know how wearing a corset could give you a shoulder injury, 'thats's like saying your shoes gave you a headache!' he said.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

lol he’s spot on! I’m guessing the straps maybe? Honestly, I don’t know 😅

Vasi, please don't feel bad about the content you put out about your experience of corsetry in daily wear. It helped me to feel more confident and less alone in wanting to try it myself. As you say, if it wasn't practical or comfortable for our lives, we wouldn't wear them every day, let alone the people who wore them for centuries. Choice as always plays a role, and the lack of resources and consideration in the costumes are sadly the norm. A custom fit corset (even my amateur attempts) worn over even a t-shirt can be really comfortable. I hardly ever wear modern support anymore. But because of the dominant narrative, it's hard to talk about to anyone who isn't already interested in historical fashion

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Giulia! That’s really wonderful to hear 😊

Your cartwheel? Wonderful. I'd like to add this explanatory video to every interview that insists corsets were tight-laced or that corsets prevent breathing, eating or otherwise torture the actor. Years ago I wore a corset (not bespoke, but well-fitted) for a 19th century stage show in which I had to dance and sing. I was absolutely fine the entire time. And this was a modest community production. How, with so many big-budget period drama and comedies being made, how can there not be a way to produce the proper undergarments? I'd go further than the costume department. As the actors have been complaining for years, this is a failure on the part of the producers and the directors. They have the power to change this situation. It just needs the will.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha thank you Lisa! Very much so. It’s the big studios responsibility to make it a priority to fund comfortable undergarments for their cast members and to stop spreading the narrative of corsetry being akin to torture.

::shudder:: If I ever see a corset on skin again…

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I get it with modern corsets for photo shoots and such but for daily wear historical corsets, that just sounds so painful.

Any item of underwear that's ill fitting is going to be unbearable. I don't wear a boned corset, but I wear a linen sports bra, I suppose is the best descriptor. I used a princess line bodice, lined it and added 3 piece lined cups. It zips up the middle. Pretty much short stays. It's the most comfortable item I own. But it would be ghastly for anyone to wear cuz it's not their size or shape.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Your linen sports bra sounds super comfy! And it’s true, I remember when I used to wear a modern bra some years ago, it was never comfortable because I could never get one that fit well lol.

Having worked in costume departments before I'd normally be the first to say that, yes, costumes can be rushed and underfunded and there is a lot of pressure to cut corners wherever you think you can get away with it--which unfortunately, sometimes mean asking your actors to deal with uncomfortable, fragile, or otherwise impractical costume pieces. It can even happen when everyone--from the producer all the way down to the assistant who picks the lint off--is working their hardest and with the best intentions. But this is one case where even I have questions. What the hell kind of stays are they wearing that are going to tear out their shoulder? What was so wrong with these corsets that wearing one was not enough? Why are actresses in Regency costume being laced down to the point where they can't eat or move? And all of this is happening on a show where the wardrobe designer has sat in an interview and boasted about the thousands of custom pieces and nearly half a year of prep? Sorry not sorry, but there's no way to explain this without calling somebody an asshole. This is, first of all, why you hire people with historical costuming experience for your historical dramas no matter how 'with a modern twist' you want them to be, and second, why you support SAG and AEF. Because directors and producers WILL allow (no, encourage) this kind of bullshit if they think they'll get away with it.

Beautifully stated! My husband always looks at me when a scene referencing corsets pops up in a movie because he knows I'm going to cringe lol 😖

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! Lol, I love that he just knows cringe will be your reaction 😂

If I remember correctly they have shown corsets twice in the show (without a shift of course) one seemed to be either mid 18th century stays and one short regency era stays. But from interviews it seems they are actually wearing modern corsets (one actress even knocks on her belly to show how stiff it is) and probably tight lacing which is even worse.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah! It’s very hard to know honestly exactly what their corsetry arrangement is, as I feel like it also varies from season to season, but even just the no shift alone would explain a lot of the discomfort.

I once told my friend that I wished society made wearing corsets easier with modern fashion because I'd love to wear one regularly without people noticing. She thought I was crazy even after I explained that it's so supportive and comfortable. The only thing I have a hard time doing in an orchard corset (which is the best I can afford), is sitting on a deeply sunken couch and slouching.

@dianagreene4257

2 жыл бұрын

I have a basic corset from Corset Story that I use whenever my lower back goes out on me. It's SO comfortable. I've been experimenting with "stealthing", but I usually either have a hard line showing at the bottom of the corset, or I throw a hoodie on over it. I'm going to try making a corset cover soon and see if that helps soften the edges.

@ohifonlyx33

2 жыл бұрын

@@dianagreene4257 my problem is the silhouette. People can tell because I suddenly have a waist.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Explaining corset wearing and its practicalities to friends is often a funny experience! 😂 Couch sitting definitely become super different but I guess it also sort of becomes a new normal and it’s just something different 🥰

I feel so awful for them that they had to go through this and can't have bespoke ones.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I know! I feel so awful for them too :(

I'm so glad someone finally talked about this 🙌!! This aspect is the middle ground, but even watching the show I could see who was in a sample size or a size too small, or a corset that should've been adjusted for their bust size/level. It's also a very different posture that we aren't used to. Once your body is used to properly standing up straight or slouching, that's what the muscles adjust to.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yes exactly! I find it extremely comfy being so upright, far more so then slouching or “relaxing” without a corset on. Glad you enjoyed the video 🥰

I haven’t seen Bridgerton but I know for a fact that they wore the corsets/stays on bare skin without any chemise and they were also tightlaced. I own a pair of self-made regency stays and they are more comfortable than most of my bras! Also I have zero back pain with my regency stays.

great video vasi! despite having seen this topic covered before, it still needs to keep being talked about!! and i actually think this is the first time i've seen someone talk about it in relation to bridgerton; i'm surprised that the cast had to endure discomfort considering the silhouette doesn't even require tightlacing or cinching. so, thanks for bringing this to light! actors deserve comfort and corsets deserve love

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Jae! I totally agree. Cast and crew deserve so much better for all their hard work and efforts.

@nessyness5447

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, like, my corsets are not even top quality or tailored to me. But picking the right size and not tightlacing , just adjusting them enough to feel they support but not press anything, and they are really comfy and super helpful when my back is hurting from sitting too many hours in bad posture. And obviously a top quality corset tailored for one particular person should be a lot more comfortable. So is terrible that they are so uncomfortbale

Whenever they would show the stays in a scene, I could tell they were too small. I can wear a corset and eat a 3 course meal, dance for hours at a ball, run around at an event in 80° heat. Having a well-fitted corset that is laced comfortably is soooo comfortable!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I agree! So comfy!

If I were a lead I’d have a corset maker written into my contract. LOL!!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

100% hahaha

You know...if it was me...and I knew there was a good chance that I'd be in one of these historical shows... I'd get myself a custom corset...out of pocket. I mean...it could still be used for later projects too.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s a very good point! Same here probably. Though it sucks that the actors would have to do so themselves. I also don’t know if the production would allow them to wear their own? I suppose they’d have to demand it in their contract. You’d think an employee’s comfort would be a priority 😂

It’s like asking actors to wear a size or two smaller shoes on set bc “no one is gonna see it anyway” 🙄🙄🙄

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Lol exactly!

it sucks how badly the corsets fit actors and that the popular opinion is "corsets are oppressive torture instruments". I started ep1 of season one but the tightlacing scene as an opening kept me from watching more than a few seconds (as well as all the other problematic stuff).

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

It does suck! I just feel like the actors are missing out on perhaps a very positive and educational experience if their corsets actually fit them well. Also I’m wondering why they were put into tightlaced long corsets when short stays would have sufficed just fine for the time period and would have been extensively more comfortable?

@bluestocking_jules7775

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood if I remember correctly, most did wear short stays, without chemise of course, so they might have been trying to tightlace those. And there's a moment where they show the leading lady being unlaced and she's got scabs on her back presumably from the corset. I have been wearing my self-made Victorian style corset most days since the beginning of the year since I find it so comfortable, and I shudder to think of the unnecessary pain those girls were put through. Poor ladies. I wish current opinion didn't assume that corsets needed to be over bare skin in order to be "appropriately s*xy", and that that wasn't considered more of a priority than everyone's comfort, let alone accuracy.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@bluestocking_jules7775 ah very interesting! I’m wondering then why they were talking about not being able to put on shoes or not being able to breathe? Short stays are tiny! They’re just like a modern bra in length lol. That just makes no sense now 😂 those poor actors honestly! That all just sounds so unnecessary and their experience didn’t have to be like that at all. That’s awesome you’ve been enjoying feeling comfy in your Victorian style corset!

@bluestocking_jules7775

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I know, the whole thing is baffling to be honest. I haven't seen season two and I'm not sure if I will, but I agree with you that too many people will believe what they see and hear in the show to be accurate and normal, and that makes me sad

I'll probably get lost in the sea of comments, but I think it's pretty telling that elizabeth olsen said in an interview her corset from avengers was pretty comfortable compared to the people on a period drama that have to wear corsets a bunch. It's a quality control thing, not something inherently wrong with corsets.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I see you!! 🥰 I check all my comments, and try to respond to all of them too 😊 I very much agree with what you're saying too. Blaming discomfort on all corsets is just far too general. There's usually a reason deeper than it just being a corset.

Such a great point about costume departments either cutting corners or just not knowing how to make historical undergarments

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Caroline! 🥰

I really loved this! ❤

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Katherine! ❤️ you’re the corset queen hahaha

@KatherineSewing

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood You flatter me 💕😘

Having torn cartilage on the lower spine (nauseatingly sickening) I had to wear a lumber support, velcro stays, for about six months. Okay, it wasn't by choice and I definitely wasn't doing cartwheels in it - could never do cartwheels anyway - but the support made life bearable. By the end of the first month I didn't notice I was wearing it. I certainly did notice it when I wasn't. None of the above is truly equitable to historical stays; the actors obviously aren't method actors, the corsets were probably not made to measure and their reaction to the underwear is filtered through the press, which is just looking through a glass darkly. Can't say I've ever enjoyed Jane Austen type series, more of a Bronte Sisters man myself.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Oh no! I'm sorry your tore your lower spine's cartilage! Hopefully you've made a full recovery by now. I very much agree though, that a big part of it is probably filtering through the press who often like to exaggerate the most "shocking" parts of an interview in order to increase clicks, which as a business it's fair enough. That's often what big business is. I'm more a Bronte sisters person myself too!

@iainmc9859

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood About 18 years ago. I was never too supple in the first place but if for some reason I end up on my back I resemble an upturned turtle (not the teenage mutant ninja variety) which made my Aikido classes a bit challenging/comical. My guess of your 'favourite' book would be Jane Eyre ?

There is an article from Vogue did acknowledge that the corsets were not historically accurate. The article said they liked the inaccuracies because of the drama the created (tight-lacing scenes, bruises, and Daphne bleeding at one point).

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

There is that article yeah, but then there’s also one talking about how accurate the underwear was in season 1, and how the show prides itself on that. Also I think there are so many ways to create drama and forcing the actors to experience pain for hours upon hours and days upon days is not a nice way to do that

@nessyness5447

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood and like, i can see tightlacing a corset causing someone to faint, being a reason for drama in a for example, mid to late 19 century show. But only if it's acknowledge as just a toxic trend and the character to be super obsessed with trends and with having a super small waist, and it being portrayed as any other unhealthy obsession or fashion trend from any other time, instead of like tightlacing being the normal way to wear corsets.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

@@nessyness5447 yeah exactly! That would’ve been a much healthier and more reasonable way to create that type of drama

I just recently stumbled on your videos, loving how straight forward and factual everything is! Shoutout to 10:36 !! This entire time I've been thinking, "But how would this affect my singing?" And omg, THANK YOU!!! ^_^

This is the first video on your channel that I’ve seen. It was really interesting, and I have found another historical KZreadr to watch, but my main thought(aside from thinking about what you were talking about) was that I love your dress!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Welcome to the channel and thank you very much! I hand sewed it for the Berry Dress ensemble which I have a few videos on 🥰

I love how you address this topic! I feel like every time something historical (be it a series, film, musical or whatever) pops up, the majority talks about the corsets and how uncomfortable they are? Or is this just me? I'm probably one of those people for whom a corset wouldn't work. Something with my spine and prolonged pressure (couple hours) that could lead to feeling as if one would twist a knife in my lower back if it's kept in one position during this amount of time. I've been home/on the couch/in bed for a full week in the past when this did happen as moving around would be painful. I would love to wear a corset with my 1890-1900's historybounding ensembles to get the proper silhouette but I'm hesitant to put my physical health on the line. I do have a strong back due to years of amateur gymnastics and ballet but this more due to the spine itself and not the muscles :(

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! It’s definitely not just you. I think it’s a narrative that makes clickable headlines for news websites, like the ones I reference in the video. So I think that’s why the pains of corsetry seems to get the most attention in our modern world. I’m so sorry to hear about the pain you experience! One thing that might be nice to know is that the reform dress movement was really big during the 1890s and so there are a number of garments you could wear without a corset, like wrappers and tea gowns. So don’t give up on historybounding from that era if you like some of the styles!

@ChayatsujiKimono

2 жыл бұрын

​@@VBirchwood The clickable headlines would be playing a major role in it for sure. The ongoing "myths" that have been shared over and over again likely won't help either. It's interesting that a lot of these "opinions" seem to come from people who have not been wearing corsets or have been wearing them incorrectly, not the proper size or without a chemise or shift. Any woman knows that an ill-fitting bra will not be comfortable, so how are corsets to be expected to be comfortable? I'm quite curious about this! I won't be giving up my historybounding ensembles, even without a corset, no worries ^^. I do believe the silhouette would be more accurate (even with a 100% corded corset) but at some point choices need to be made. Being mindful of how I move helps a lot. I'm not in pain on a daily basis, sitting down goes a very long way. I've been massivly interested in my local folkwear from the same era. Most of the people around here were farmers, the ladies wouldn't be wearing actual corsets. Bodices were fully boned but I have yet to find evidence of them wearing corsets whilst working on their land. It may have been a city-dweller thing? Not so much a regional folk wear one? It could be region-specific. So far I'm mostly wearing historic skirts constructed like how they were back then with modern (fast-fashion) blouses or lightweight sweaters ^^ I've never been so cozy and warm during the winter! haha

I have to say that i was pleasantly surprised to see you this week. One of the costubers made a pair of regency short says to use a a sports bra a couple years ago. I want to say it was Cat from Cats Costuming, but I cant remember. I had wanted too make a pair of my own, but we ended up moving to what is now our homestead and it left my mom's workout group behind. Abby Cox talked about her year as a living history actor and how sometimes they would go out to eat while still in costume going. How while wearing her stays she had to lean back for food digestion after eating like a pig. And how the men had to lean forward because of the way to garment fit. She never once complained about it hurting or making her sick. Recently I have been seriously considering ditching my modern bra for a corset and regency short says for them summer. Especially since I'm a larger bust on a smaller frame thanks to 5 kids. You want discomfort try having the girls supported by a pair of thin straps that dig into your shoulders. And yes they does hurt my back which causes me to start hunching after a while which is bad for the posture. Maybe someday the historical film industry will budget the time for better fitting corsets and stays for their actors. Anyways hope you are well and it can't wait to see your adorable puppy Rúna again. See you in a couple weeks. ❤️

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

It’s great to see you here too!! I had a totally different video planned for next week, but I’m glad I sat down to record this one over the weekend 🥰 Modern bras are often horrible for smaller busts, let alone larger busts as you describe your experience! You totally should make some short stays or something similar as I’m sure you’d like them way more and feel far more supported. I hope you’re doing well and definitely more Rúna content to come! See you in two weeks ❤️

@SimpleDesertRose

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood absolutely they are! Even before I had kids and grew in a larger bust, it was difficult to find a decent bra and they wear out way to fast. We are almost done with school for the year. Once we finish our last unit, we do that we will be be done for the summer. Then I can dedicate more time to sewing. My daughter expressed an interest in studying historical dress next year so we will be adding that into her curriculum next year with a monthly project. So hopefully we will create some fun things together next year. 😁

@ragnkja

2 жыл бұрын

The men were the ones leaning back-the women were leaning forwards.

My favourite comment about corsetry and stays is by Bernardette Banner in one of her videos, that Harriet Tubman walked from Maryland to Pennsylvania while laced in stays. Also, when I watched Topsy Turvy, the movie about Gilbert and Sullivan, I learned that it wasn't just Victorian women who wore corsets - the lead male singer not only refused to take his corset off (because he was going to be in The Mikado, and the Japanese costume wouldn't drape properly if he was wearing his corset), he credited it with improving his singing through helping with his breath control.

@VBirchwood

Жыл бұрын

Hahaha both of these facts are so cool! Thanks so much for sharing them 😊

@VBirchwood

Жыл бұрын

It’s true though. You can walk very far in stays/a corset. I basically always hike in mine and for many many miles, and it actually helps a lot!

Great information! I enjoyed learning more about corset/ stays wearing. Both the proper and comfortable way , and uncomfortable, improperly made way! I think it is important to give the facts about why something is wrong with, (well anything) in this case the undergarments, as well as the correct information. I have noticed that you do this very well in all your discussions. It's an admiral trait. I was also happy that you continually reinforced the additional finances needed for improvement on the design of making of the garment by costume designers. Recognizing all aspects of anything that you ( everyone) are going to discuss is so important. It also opens for more discussion and understanding, and change, if change is what's needed. Therefore, if along with all the other wonderful things you teach on your channel, perhaps we all can learn from you, this valuable lesson on how to have a fact to share or an oppion, or something you want to know more about. An open discussion with gratification about all the parts and no personal, critical attacks! Great job as always. With happiness and joy, Audri P.S. I didn't mean to " soapbox" . I just have strong feelings on how important "good communication" , with all It's parts can be to bring us all much more together.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Audri! I definitely agree that effective communication is highly important, along with also trying to approach conversations in a way that doesn’t make anyone feel attacked or judged but rather to help facilitate change 😊

I absolutely love the insight you bring here. Rather than tearing into the actresses, you analyze the situation and provide clear, concise reasoning for why there might actually be legitimate issues. You don't blame the costuming department, but explain why it would be difficult for them to provide proper garments for the actresses - and even if they were properly fitted, why there still would be issues. I tie a lot of this into the fact that - even though corsets are not made to be uncomfortable, they also do have some formation effects on the body. People do have to carry themselves differently when wearing, they can't slouch or bend quite as flexibly as they usually do, depending on the style. So many reasons, but such a necessary presentation in defense against those who write off corsets all together as a 'tool of the patriarchy'. Um ... I'm sorry feminist actresses, but men weren't forcing women into corsets over the years.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I’m a feminist myself but truly believe that what’s feminist is allowing all women to wear what they want to and trusting in the intellect of females all throughout history. Much like today, I’m sure historically some women liked the corset and some didn’t, and I’m grateful today that we have the choice, albeit with some demonisation to deal with. We’ll work on that! Lol

@trenae77

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I think my vision of a feminist might differ widely from the set definition. There are the feminists who seek to foster opportunities for other women, who may or may not fit traditional ‘woman’s’ roles. I’ve had many of these sorts of feminists in my life; ones who are willing to speak out when they see an injustice, yet maintain their peace rather than being provoked into needless argument. You seem to fit quite comfortably in that ever-shifting category. Rather, when I speak disparagingly of ‘feminists’, it’s the ones who seem to talk too loud and too long on matters they have not taken the time to fully understand. That’s a huge reason why I enjoyed this video; you presented your knowledge and passion on the subject, admitted where you might lack full understanding, and managed to make a stand without castigating either side.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Tara! I think it’s important in life for one to admit what they might not know. There are definitely so many aspects to this subject I have no idea about, and that’s okay! I still have some aspects (experiential) to share 🥰

@katiem.3109

Жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood Honestly, thank you for acknowledging that some women, historically, didn't like corsets and didn't wear them. So many fashion youtubers refuse to acknowledge this. Honestly, the amount of sheer vitriol and condescension you see aimed towards Emma Watson just because she choose not to wear a corset in the Beauty and the Beast because she thought her character would find them impractical--never mind the fact that this decision was actually historically accurate for poor working women like Belle in rural france at the time! (i.e., most women in Belle's social class in France at the time did not wear stays, for practical and cost reasons)

Especially with my early 1930s girdle (which I wear for 1910s-1950s cause I don’t have more specific foundation garments) I always find it really funny that my tightest skirts often don’t fit because I squish and the girdle doesn’t! It’s supposed to make you smaller is kinda a myth, it’s supposed to mold you into a specific shape not necessarily make you smaller

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yesss exactly! It pushes fat up and down and alters shape (temporarily of course). I mean I guess there are some extreme corsets that definitely change waist size, but I feel we see those a lot more in modern corsetry.

The sweater your wearing is amazing and looks so comfortable.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you!! It's called a sontag and was a knitted wrap worn traditionally in the 1860s predominately, you see it a bit again in the 1890s too 😊 I commissioned a friend to knit it as I am not a strong knitter 😂

Most illuminating, thank you! 😊

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! 😊

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! 😊

I knew it was going to be inaccurate when they had a tight-lacing scene. In 1815. Great point about poorly fitting support wear. Anything structured is going to hurt if it's not a great fit. I mean it's why I can't buy shoes I cannot try on and, even then, only certain styles. No one would expect people to suck up poorly fitting shoes. Corsetry is the same.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

It is the same! I guess though the show is fiction and not meant to be accurate so it makes sense that accuracy wouldn’t be a priority, but I still feel they could have created drama on the show without having to further demonise corsetry.

I've sung in operas for 20 years now. Corsets or stays in most of them. Even with a relatively low budget a well stocked costume department can accommodate actors of various sizes into various time periods. I can confirm that shoe tying is fine (depending on time period and style I sometimes prefer shoes before gown because the skirts are enormous) and if sized and laced properly you can sing...opera...in a corset...like it's nothing. It sucks that the actors had that negative experience.

@emilywilliams2970

2 жыл бұрын

I quite enjoy the supported feeling

@ragnkja

2 жыл бұрын

If you couldn’t sing opera in stays or a corset, how did the actresses in the original productions of classical operas do it?

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

It’s great you’ve had such a positive experience with corsetry as well whilst singing! It feels often reminiscent of that book breath strengthening exercise often done in training. I’m not opera trained, but it was an exercise we did in my contemporary training. The corset really does feel so supportive and reminds you also to breathe.

I LOVE your outfit in this video! So beautiful.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you!!

Your corset looks so comfy!

I've worn an off the rack corset that was good for my measurements and at first it felt really stiff and hard to move in, but after a few days it was comfortable to wear and I could do pretty much everything.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome! You’re very lucky you could feel comfortable in one off the rack. I have an extremely short and narrow back so off the rack corsets are the worst because they dig into my armpits and hips by about 2-3 inches due to the short back 😂

Corsets and stays should more be compared to shoes. They both give support to the body, have to be at the same time sturdy and comfortable, they mostly close with lace. There is a lot a different style of shoes and a lot of different feet size and shape like there is a lot of different style of stays, bodies and corsets over the 400 years they were fashionable and a lot of different bodyshape to wear them. If one complains about having pains in shoes, the society (in general) will blame the shoes. But if someone complains about pain in corset, we blame the corset...

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Precisely! I always make the comparison to shoes also because leather takes time to soften and so does a corset. So it’s such a good comparison. Also, custom fit shoes are going to be far more comfortable than a standard, off the rack shoe, just like with corsets.

Thank you so much. This was really inspiring.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Awww thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it.

Really enjoyed this video! I hope an actress saw this so they can raise the issue if they are going to work on a historical project. Even though I don’t sew and don’t have any interest in wearing historical clothes myself, I find your content fascinating.

@VBirchwood

Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! I hope that the industry can create more space for actors to speak out about these issues because so often when people do, they get black listed etc. so there needs to be a major shift in the industry all over.

I totally agree with you, even though I’ve never worn a real corset but just by observing how you and other people wear them and feel comfortable so there’s something wrong with their corsets. I thought it was funny how that lady said double corset, I’m trying to imagine here how it would look like. 😆 And V, a side note this would be a perfect Instagram picture, you sitting on this beautiful chair with this background holding… your MacBook! lol it would be the perfect representation of a 21st century Victorian! Then again, carrying a book would be also suuuper cool! 😄

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Hahahaha thanks so much Caroline! Perhaps I’ll grab a screenshot from the video and put it up on Instagram 😂

@carolinemaluca

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood you go girl!!! 😄👏🏼

I made a gown with a corset built in for a friend. I had to pull in a corset expert for part of it. The funny thing, she has both complained about corsets (from Amazon, hot topic, etc) but says the dress was the most comfortable thing she’s ever worn. Doesn’t believe me it was a corset.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome! That’s the thing though, a corset is a spectrum and there are so many different forms of the corset and ways it can be worn, it just sucks that the general mainstream narrative learns towards them being awful things when it goes so much deeper than that 🥰

@nephtys369

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood for sure. I always thing “why do you think we took so many measurements and you has SO MANY fittings!? I only need one for most stuff I make”.

I have me-made long-length Regency stays and I LOVE wearing them! I have a history of broken vertebrae and the stays are SO supportive!!!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s wonderful to hear! I’m that glad 🥰

@therewillbecatswithgwenhwyfar

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood yeah it’s definitely helpful especially if I’m doing a lot of sewing in one day or over a couple of days and I’m hunched over my sewing machine it’s just so comforting to have that counter pressure! So I think you have to be right… They must be putting them in modern corsets or some thing because there’s zero reason that regency stays should ever be uncomfortable particularly to the point where you injure yourself!

What a nice and balanced take!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! 😊

I have been wearing corsetry just about daily for 3 years. I started wearing them after I injured myself. I find them very comfortable. When I've had to wear a modern bra since I made the switch, I actually find them uncomfortable... especially the straps pushing into my shoulders. While wearing corsetry is an adjustment initially, a well fitting corset is definitely a pleasure.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Totally agreed! I’m so sorry though that you got injured but that’s wonderful the corset was able to help 😊

While an actor shouldnt have to pay for their costume, it would benefit these ladies to shell out for a custom corset that fits them.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Definitely! It should be covered in their contracts honestly. I’m just not sure that historical underwear and comfort is something an actor would think of unless they have experience already wearing historical underwear or a personal interest

@TealCheetah

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I also wonder if wardrobe is lacing the actresses in too tightly due to corset myths that wont die

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I 100% don’t doubt they are. Which is so not needed for Regency, or arguably ever haha

Kind of unrelated, but I’m learning I recently learned the word “chemise” and. I was so happy to hear it and know the meaning of it!

Good video! I missed it because I wasn't expecting one this week! I'm glad you touched upon this issue a little bit but part of me also just...stopped caring what people think about corsets a long time ago lol

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Luna! I surprised everyone 😅 I’m also working on a gown for a tight deadline so this is perhaps a better upload schedule as now I won’t need to work on a video whilst I’m trying to sew this entire gown hahaha. Yeah not caring anymore is sensible. I think the reason I still talk about it is because, sadly if you have any type of online presence and you share corset content you either get continuously 1) attacked for defending the corset even though it’s a personal experience (I’ve had people get mad that I was giving sensible response to their demonising of the corset to the point where they’ve blocked me lol) or 2) sexualised for wearing one since it is so often connected with that world in a modern context, or at least some people assume it is. So the only way I can think to reduce this is just education, education, education. I have friends that speak about the corset publicly too and experience the same thing, so it seems to be commonplace.

@Luna-bo6sf

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood Interesting! I didn't even realize there was so much backlash for creators, but it makes sense. Now I understand why everyone has a video about it haha. And good luck on your gown!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly, that’s likely the reason why. Plus, sadly corset content performs well. Yesterday I gained more subscribers than I ever have in the history of my channel and that’s thanks to this video. So the algorithm almost encourages us to keep making corset content lol. Thank you!! I’m getting close to being done with it 😊

@Luna-bo6sf

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood Will there be a video on it when it's done?

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

There will indeed! A few videos even 😊 the shoes was part one, but I’ll be making a few tutorials off some of the smaller sections of ensembles, some quick hand sewing day makes, and then a bigger video for the making of the gown itself.

They're wearing short stays in the "undressing" scenes. Short stays can't restrict the waist. They're actually quite comfy and supportive when made to fit right 🤷🏼‍♀️

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Precisely!

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

They’re a lot like a bralette

I habitually wear inexpensive off the rack corsets. They're fine. Better than most bras, and they're emphatically not custom to me! However I'm not tight lacing, and I look for flexible boning. I think much of the time they are stuffing actors into rigidly boned steel corsets and tight lacing them. All of these complaints sound like the corsetry is being worn WAY too tight, in addition to whatever else may be wrong.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Yes agreed! I think too some bodies are more fit to wear “standard” sizing than others, and so a body that is very short backed for instance (like my own), an off the rack corset likely wouldn’t be comfortable.

I agree to everything mentioned here (but you're a lot more polite than I would have been)

@VBirchwood

10 ай бұрын

Thank you Lucy! I started watching your channel years ago so I got excited seeing your comment 😊

Thank you for the cartwheel 💜

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I’m glad you appreciated it! 😂🥰

Fit makes such a huge difference with corsetry! I bought a corset at the local ren fest several years ago, and now that I've lost 15+ pounds (which is a great problem to have, I guess), my corset is just not comfortable to wear anymore. Someday I'll make an actual pair of bodies to my size...after I get through the massive pile of other projects I have planned, lol. On another note, do you have any experience wearing short stays with a busk in the front? I'm considering making some because I need a wireless bra for medical reasons, but I don't know how tightly the busk might press against the skin or whether I'd have the same problem as an underwire. (I need a wireless bra for lymphedema, so it's important that the busk not prevent the lymph fluid in my skin from moving where it needs to!)

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Lol, do you have the mountain of unfinished projects too? 😂 I swear it’s a commonality between all of us sewing-enthusiasts hahaha. I have worn long stays with a busk in front only, but I’d recommend perhaps making it removable? That way if you find it not to be comfortable or what you’re needing, you could easily remove it and wear the short stays regardless.

It's a shame that the actors even had to wear corsets in the first place as they don't even need them for the garments they were wearing! If they did need the corsets, the show certainly has the budget to make properly made ones

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly! They were superfluous and then to top it off, a completely unnecessary discomfort!

Thank you. Also thank you for talking about men's corsets. I didn't know that =)

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching 😊

Very insightful. I completely agree

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you!!

@charc3345

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood thanks for replying! I was wondering if you could make a video on your favorite historical book recommendations? That would be great! (Especially since I prefer books over tv usually, too.)

Before I started watching a few costuming videos, I (and most people I talked to) was under the impression that the main purpose of a corset, and any similar undergarment, was to actually make your waist smaller. It could be that a lot of studios think the same way even if (hopefully) their costume departments know better.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

It’s really interesting that you say that because I think that’s generally what most people would say before getting deep into historical fashion! I’m sure even if the costume department knew this information, they likely would not have been in the position to actually do anything about it as big productions are generally pretty tightly controlled

@jennifermoriarty2188

Жыл бұрын

I hear the producers want the actors smaller so they tight lace them

I have worn my corset for over 12 hours, and I have no trouble eating, putting shoes on or anything else. My daily wear is bespoke. I do wonder if the corsets are put on by assistants who don’t know how they should be laced and make them tighter than the costumer intended.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Same experience on my side as well to you! Likely that could be one element and probably an entire slew of other contributing factours too. Of course corsets wouldn’t be comfortable for these actors! 😂

Thanks for this informative video My experience of wearing a corset leads me to believe that it being properly laced is important too I got a corset online to wear to Pride one year (it was a fun costume for one day so I wasn't going to go custom made for that!) At the beginning of the day my friend laced me in and she did a great job, I was comfy all day, I felt like it was easier to stand upright, we were dancing at the parade and then went for burgers and ate a full meal. I went home for a disco nap before the big party, and a different friend laced me back in after the nap and did a less good job, and that was uncomfortable with pinching and rubbing etc. So I think proper lacing is an important factor

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! Proper lacing is definitely such an important factour. The general rule of thumb I’ve found for lacing (at least with historical corsets) is 1-2 inches of space between the sides on the lacing, and then the sides are generally parallel to one another if the corset is well-fitting

I sing in musicals and sometimes have to wear corsets, the type we had were the cheap ones you can get from eBay, not fitted or custom made and them were fine, took the waist down an inch but surprisingly I found that mine actually supported my singing, my voice came out stronger and clearer than ever.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome to hear! You’re very lucky you can comfortably wear off-the-rack corsets. My back length is way too short that anything but bespoke ends up hurting me a lot because it digs into my armpits due to the smaller length lol

One observation from my perspective and understanding, if I may be so bold (as a male...LOL...but as you pointed out men do...and still do... were forms of these, especially when lifting heavy weights as I do in my work or for support of back injuries...another topic to be sure) but the sturdiness of a "gromet" is based on design and proper fabrication...not whether it is made of metal, shell/bone, sinew, or thread sewn...Thus, when done/designed well a "sewn" (or alternative bespoke gromet) will afford a much more secure lacing/lashing point, while the later metal ones actually have an annoying habit of ripping out because they just are not that well suited to there task and was more for "mass production" than "good fit and design." Because a sewn grommet does not slide the binding/lacing as well it can be very uncomfortable if the corset is not VERY WELL fitted and bespoke to the wearer...Bone/shell grommet (very rare) is another topic to detail for this post and the bespoke nature of them within a given corset design... I do not follow the "ins and outs" of the garment industry as thoroughly as others but get my "updates" from others kind enough to share them (like yourself.) Whenever I hear or read a passage such as this, I'm befuddled at how an Actress would complain of something like this and not have the common sense (for the next season or production) knowing the discomfort they would have to endure...to have a period bespoke corset (or corsets!) made to fit them properly...I guess it's just easier to complain about it...LOL!!! Though this video may have been very esoteric to some viewers...I for one...LOVED this video, as all your rest...and you bending over to demonstrate what can be achieved with a proper corset adorned well...was PRICELESS...LMAO!!!..and I hope the cast members with their complaints get to see this video and perhaps learn something...

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Jay! the weight lifting belts you speak of are definitely so similar. I used to lift at one point (I know that might seem shocking) and I’d wear a lifting belt and it always felt quite similar. The corset, I’d say, is just even more comfortable since it’s for even more prolonged use and made from a different material 😊

@JayCWhiteCloud

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood You lifting weights is not shocking at all, as you seem quite fit...a bit amusing though as there were period clothes for such antics which my metal picture of is bemusing for sure...LOL! I made my first "lifting garment" after an injury, and it was fully molded after a period piece. I employe deer rib bone sanded down, and the grommeting went one of these all sewn in sinew, brain tan, and some linen canvas... As you have so correctly pointed out in this video, the Actors bemoaning their corsets is complete folly and silly. There is nothing more comfortable than a well-fitted corset, when fully fitted and well designed. Some elite body armor is more corset than it is a "vest." These simply can not be uncomfortable when worn as they are to be on all day and unobtrusive to view from the outside... Looking forward to your next...

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

I think though the actors complaining about corsets is a sign of a bigger issue that exists all throughout the media industry, which is the comfort and safety of both cast and crew not being prioritised. If that were the case, production companies would choose not to cut corners for greater profit.

@JayCWhiteCloud

2 жыл бұрын

@@VBirchwood I could not agree more, and can even speak to this (indirectly) as my former BrotherinLaw (and still dear friend) works in a fair amount of movies each year as part of Wardrobe and Costume Leads in those departments (e.g. Dances With Wolves, Parents of the Caribian, etc.) I don't follow his work as much these days but listened to many a story where Actors (as part of their contract) demanded (!!!) bespoke and well-fitted garments, otherwise there was no shooting to take place at a given point in the film. Not all production companies (needless to say) afford such proper attention, as you correctly point out. I would expect the Actors Guild to be better about addressing this. Maybe in the future, this will become more of a focal point... I should also share, once more, what I did before in my other post, that many "wiser" actors (per conversations with my brother-in-law) have bespoke garments made for them either "out of pocket" or as part of their contract. Thus once more, I would stress that the final onus is on the Actor, should they really wish for something to be comfortable, they make it happen themselves as part of their contract, or out of pocket...The more that demanded this and/or addressed these issues, the less of a challenge such things as "poorly fitted/designed" corsets would be an issue. Better production companies (and Wardrobe Leads) do demand this and make it a focal point of their work...I do know that for a fact... As always, great chatting with you...

I think it’s the same with high heels. If you are not used to something it will feel uncomfortable, even painful. But as the saying goes, misery loves company so an article or video complaining about something is going to get more hits and attention than a video or article praising the costumes. I actually think it’s quite rude for an actor to criticise the costumes, would they be so cavalier about the sets or the writing, even if the costumes weren’t perfect it was a colleagues hard work and complaining in public while representing the studio is, in my opinion disrespectful. In any other job you would probably be fired.

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

You make a very good point! I’m sure many of the costume departments as well would like to give their actors better fitting custom corsets but just aren’t given the budgets or time to do so by production companies. Crews in film and television are notoriously treated poorly even though they work long, hard days.

I love this video and it’s been so helpful as I’ve started getting into wearing (a custom made) one. I’m also taking singing lessons, do you breathe from the diaphram(belly) or the chest? Thanks for your video and answers! :)

@VBirchwood

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! 😊 all diaphragmatic. I have a video about it on my channel

I love how you pronounce corset & process I now say them both like you ❤️

@VBirchwood

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Drew ❤️❤️