How to make a corset - Foundations Revealed

Alison Kannon demystifies the construction and recreation of “bodies”, the stiffened supportive layer of clothing that later came to be called a corset or stays.

A utilitarian but essential part of the Medieval wardrobe, researched and recreated on a modern body.

In the 16th and early 17th Centuries the term "hose" was used for garments belonging to both men and women.

In this article we will investigate the history and construction of lower hose: netherstocks, stockings, and boot-hose. Then we'll drape, pattern and sew our own with a combination of machine and handstitching.

Two questions and a short story on the Letters page this month:

Zeina inquires about how to make a set of the 1660 watered silk stays from the V&A. Bernicia wonders about alternative lacing and where to find colored eyelets (hint: its in the most unexpected place!) A short story from 1913, in which the lady's undergarments play a starring role (it's a nice clean story, nothing risque actually happens!)