Aug 25, 2022

The Ultimate Corset Training Guide

Don't you love the classic look of a steel corset? It's no wonder women have been using (and showing off) these shapewear garments for hundreds of years. Today, you can use a high-quality corset to achieve a sexy vintage look as an outerwear garment, or you can use a corset as part of a continuous training regimen, over your clothes or hidden underneath them.

We receive a lot of questions about waist training, cinchers, and corsets. This guide was designed to give you a complete overview of using a corset as part of your waist training program and the benefits of corset training in general.

What is a corset?

Corset training is a form of waist training, and the two terms are often used interchangeably. You may have already heard of waist training, made popular by celebrities like the Kardashians. Simply put, this practice involves wearing a corset or another garment that tightens the waist for 8 to 12 hours a day as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and a nutritious diet. The goal is what it sounds like: to "train" and slim your waist.

The trend the Kardashians like to talk about on Instagram generally refers to latex waist trainers, or cinchers. In contrast, corset training - also known as corseting - often refers to a steel corset, not a cincher. Although the process is essentially the same, many women prefer the benefits of a corset.

Related: The History of the Corset

Differences Between a Corset and a Waist Cincher

Although the ultimate goal is practically the same (a dramatic slimming of the stomach), there are several key differences between latex cinchers and steel corsets:

Construction

As the name suggests, a steel-boned corset is reinforced with a lightweight but sturdy frame. It is the frame that provides compression and support for the abdomen. The corset is tightened using laces at the back of the garment. The rest of the fabric is generally soft and smooth: satin or satin polyester is often used on the outside, while the lining is generally cotton.

Corsets are most often made of latex, which provides the compression necessary for effective waist training. The most common style uses hook-and-eye closures on the front of the garment.

Durability

Because it is made of steel, a steel-boned corset is designed to last. The compression of the garment generally does not weaken over time. And because it is tightened with laces, a corset can be considerably reduced. You can potentially lose several inches at the waist and fit into the same corset, simply tightened with laces.

In comparison, a latex corset, although very resistant, will eventually lose some of its elasticity and compression strength after a few months of daily use. Remember that latex waist trainers often have two or three rows of hook-and-eye closures, allowing you to tighten the garment as you lose inches. But if you naturally lose a few inches from your waist, you will probably need to

How Does It Work?

In addition to sculpting your figure when worn, the firm compression of a corset stimulates perspiration and your body's thermal activity. As a complement to a healthy lifestyle, a corset can help you slim your waist, in a way, by "shaping" your waistline.

Okay, You've Convinced Me. How Do I Choose a Corset?

Here's What to Consider When Shopping:

Size

For corsets, sizing may seem a bit tricky at first, but it's easy to understand when you know how to measure. First, you need to measure your waist accurately. Using a fabric or vinyl measuring tape and keeping it level, measure the narrowest part of your waist. This part is located about 5 cm above the navel, where your waist naturally curves when you lean to the side. Make sure the tape is not too tight; you should be able to fit a finger underneath.

After determining your waist size, subtract 10 to 15 cm to get an even number (if your waist is 30 to 30 cm, you need a size 26). If you are between two sizes, go up, don't go down.

Depending on the length of your torso, you may also consider varying corset lengths. Some are designed for shorter women, while others offer greater coverage. If your torso is short (in which case you are probably generally short), you can opt for an option like the Brocade Design Underbust Corset by Bonitaz. Use this size guide to determine where your torso length is located.

Style

This is where it gets fun. Note that for effective corset training, you need an underbust style. Make your choice based on the variations in colors, fabrics, and prints. Some corsets serve as outerwear. The cut of some corsets varies slightly; those with a more underbust-shaped cut can offer better bust support.

What Should I Do When My Corset Arrives?

There is nothing like a brand-new corset, beautifully wrapped in its packaging. Unroll it gently so that the laces are facing up.

-First of all, try it on and make sure it fits you well. We suggest using a mirror or asking a friend to help you.

-Spread the laces, loosening the X's starting from the center.

-Put it on without tightening it and hook the fasteners at the front; the fasteners should be on your right side.

-Never pull on the hooks; if it's too tight, loosen the laces a little more.

-Once the corset is in place, you can start tightening the back. Pull the laces, starting from the top and going toward the middle, tightening the loops as you go.

It's like tightening shoelaces, but there is a top and a bottom. The tightening loops should be at your natural waist.

During the trying-on phase, tighten the laces well, but not to the point of providing firm compression. When they are well tightened, tie the laces in the middle.

It should be fairly obvious whether the corset fits you or not. When gently tightened like this, it should rest comfortably on your waist without pinching or restricting you. It should create a flattering figure when you look in the mirror.

Okay, this part is important...

Once you have determined that the corset fits you, you need to "season" it for a week or two before tightening the laces for maximum compression. Wear it without tightening for about an hour a day. This will help the corset conform to the unique shape of your body and prevent the fasteners from warping.

How to Start Corset Training

Once you have seasoned your corset, you can immediately start corset training. We recommend gradually increasing the time you wear your corset each day.

Note that the laces can be very tight. You may be surprised by the feeling of tension at first, but your body will quickly get used to it if you follow your program. Stop wearing it immediately if you start to feel pain, shortness of breath, or discomfort beyond the initial tightness.

It can be useful to review your corset wearing schedule on a weekly basis. Start by wearing your corset for an hour or two at a time, then gradually add a little more time each day. It can be useful to split the wearing into two sessions; for example, wear your corset for four hours a day in two sessions. If you wish, take a rest day from time to time.

Here is an example of a corset training program. Your goal is to wear the corset for the number of hours planned at the end of the week.

Week 1: 3-4 hours

Week 2: 5-6 hours

Week 3: 7-8 hours

Week 4: 9-10 hours

Once you are comfortable with daily wear, we recommend continuing to wear your corset for 8 to 12 hours a day for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long until I see results?

We are often asked this question. If you are referring to long-term results, it depends on several factors, including body type, lifestyle, and the willingness to wear the corset while following a healthy diet and exercising.

However, we can say that you will immediately see a difference when you wear your corset. One of the benefits of the steel construction is that it can considerably compress your waist in an instant - several inches, in fact. Although we recommend a regimen for optimal results, we think you will be delighted with your appearance just by putting it on!

How should I care for my corset?

We are happy you asked the question, because corsets are designed to last when properly cared for! To start, if you wish to wear a corset daily, we strongly recommend having at least two in your wardrobe so they can rest. Air them out after each wear by draping them lining-side out on a hanger or a chair. You can also clean them if necessary with a mild detergent and let them dry. Whatever you do, do not put them in the washing machine! If necessary, take them to a dry cleaner.

When putting on and taking off a corset, make sure it is completely loosened to avoid damaging the front busk. You can also wear a light camisole or another garment under the corset to protect it from your skin oils and the lotions you wear.

Other corset tips?

As with any type of waist training, we cannot stress enough the importance of combining corset training with a healthy lifestyle. It is particularly important to strengthen your body muscles.

Note that most corsets are not designed for workouts (try a training band for core waist training instead, which is generally designed to stimulate heat and increase perspiration during exercise, so you can optimize your workouts). Make sure to stay hydrated, as you will sweat more around your stomach, and adopt a nutritious diet that avoids processed foods.

We hope this guide has been useful to you to start your journey into the world of corsets! If you have any other questions, please contact our customer service team.