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What To Wear To A Renaissance Festival: The Do's & Don'ts!

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Atomic Jane Renaissance Festival
Courtesy of Arizona Renaissance Festival

 

A tradition that started in the 1960's, the Renaissance Festival is a magical space filled with nostalgia, fantasy, and endless ways to escape to another world. Ren Faires are a nod to the English Renaissance, taking the form of an old English village that would have existed during the time of the reign of Elizabeth I. 

Renaissance Festivals celebrate traditional garb and encourage elaborate, detailed costumes that further enhance the experience of being taken back in time. There are booths selling handmade items, traditional food (giant turkey legs!), and live jousting reenactments, just to name a few of the things that Ren Faires have in store.

Renaissance Festivals take place all over the country, having gained huge popularity over the last 50 years for their incredible ability to transform a space, create a welcoming and safe environment for dreamers, and allow people to live out their fantasies!

Whether you're a long-time Ren Faire attendee or trying to learn the ropes before your first Renaissance Festival experience, we thought we would throw together a little Do's and Don'ts list as well as some Renaissance costume ideas in order to ensure that you have the most incredible experience that you possibly can!

Do: some research beforehand! 

Although anything truly goes at Ren Faires, if it's your thing to dress up, do it big!

There are a few different directions that Renaissance Festival costumes can go in, from gypsies to princesses to pirates to knights. Do a little research, pull up some photos, make it a day you will never forget!

Here at Atomic Jane, we have a couple of super-special Renaissance costume ideas that we've pulled from our inventory for you to take a look at! We hope that these will spark a bit of inspiration in you while picking out your ultimate Renaissance Festival costume.

 

Atomic Black Siren Pirate Costume
ATOMIC BLACK SIREN PIRATE COSTUME

 

Turn up the heat in this Atomic Black Siren Pirate Costume! You'll stand out in the crowd and keep heads turning in this beautiful strapless mini dress with ruffled lace details.

Although the boots pictured are oh-so-sexy, we might recommend something a little more comfortable for the day at the Renaissance Festival!

Click on the image above to find this ensemble on our website in one size fits small through large for only $65!

 

Atomic Deluxe Renaissance Gypsy Costume

ATOMIC DELUXE RENAISSANCE GYPSY COSTUME

 

Going in a completely different direction here (but still super sexy) we have our Atomic Deluxe Renaissance Gypsy Costume!

This beautiful white peasant-style dress is a nod to the Renaissance era and the beautiful details and flow of the dress are perfect for a day at the Ren Faire.

Click on this image above to find this beautiful Renaissance Festival costume on our website in one size fits small through large for only $95!

 

Atomic Red Chest Strap Long Sleeved Gown

ATOMIC RED CHEST STRAP LONG SLEEVED GOWN

Last but certainly not least is our Atomic Red Chest Strap Long Sleeved Gown. This gown is absolutely beautiful and the combination of the rich color and the way it drapes on your body will have you feeling like a million bucks all day! This is an absolutely perfect Renaissance costume idea.

Click on the image above to be taken to the purchase page on our website, available in one size fits small through large for only $85!

  

Don't: be shy! 

If it's your first Renaissance Festival, the sheer stimulation may overwhelm you upon entering the premises. Put your guard down!

A lot of the patrons may also be newcomers, but even if they aren't, this group will be ready to welcome you with open arms!

 

Atomic Jane Renaissance Festival Courtesy of David E James Photography

 

Do: dress for comfort! 

You'll want to walk around comfortably, and in the form of an old English village, it is likely that you will be walking on dirt paths, grass, etc. It would be a shame to have to cut the day short on account of some not-so-walkable shoes!

Dress for comfort and mobility, dress for the weather, and work it around your outfit.

Don't: have a closed mind! 

You'll be amazed at all the wonderful surprises in store for you at the Ren Faire, with booths, activities, and sights to see that will blow you away.

Go into the day expecting to be surprised and try out as many new experiences as you can as they come your way! This is the essence of the Renaissance Festival.

Atomic Jane Renaissance Festival

Courtesy of Texas Renaissance Festival

Do: feel safe to go all out! 

Although this is a list of guidelines, the cool thing about the Renaissance Festival is that literally, anything goes! If you feel like trashing this list, that's also fine. Just be yourself!

It is a safe space with absolutely no judgment, a place where everyone is safe to live out their fantasies. Allow others to feel as safe as they are allowing you to feel!

 

Atomic Jane Renaissance Festival

Courtesy of Craig Marlsen Photography

Don't: be afraid to interact! 

A Renaissance Festival should be a completely immersive experience, from the patrons to the staff! Try not to freeze up when the staff wants to have a little fun with you, that's all part of the day!

Open up to absolutely everything around you and you'll be surprised at how much of a positive impact it has on your overall experience.

 

Atomic Jane Renaissance Festival 

Photo of Sir William vs. Sir Jacob by Katie Jones, Minnesota Renaissance Festival

What's Next? 

Feeling inspired? We hope that this little list has made you feel more equipped with what to expect at the Renaissance Festival as well as provided you with some inspiration in order to really get the most out of your experience!

If you're looking for more beautiful costumes, gowns, and corsets to put together the ensemble of your dreams, head on over to Atomic Jane Clothing and see all of the amazing things we have in store! There is really something for everyone throughout our huge inventory.

As always, please feel free to message us with any questions or comments regarding this post or anything in general! We love to hear from you.

Until next time, Happy shopping Atomic Fans! 

Corset Wearing & History

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Corsets have been the center of women’s fashion since the 16th century. Before this time, the beautiful shape that corsets allow for were highly esteemed, but the technology to design corsets was unavailable. Since their first appearance in the 1500s, however, they have continually defined the ideal woman’s body. Every few generations, the shapes of the corsets would change, and with them changed how women wanted to be seen. However, whatever their specific design may have been, the general purpose was to as delicately and comfortably as possible, appraise and highlight women’s figures. Specially designed to pinch at the waist, show off the hips and push up at the breast-line, corsets exaggerated the curves that every woman naturally has. The royalty of the 16th centuries and on, were aware of the high class style that a corset resulted in, and required all their royal associates (the women of course ) to wear the snuggest and most beautifully designed corsets. Although, since they first made an appearance in fashion, they went through several stages of evolution and change. By the Victorian era the hourglass figure (similar to today) was the shape that every woman aspired to and no woman who had any kind of dignity would be seen in public without a corset.

First class citizens of the Western World, well aware of the importance of corsets would spend fortunes on designing breathtaking embroidered and laced corsets that women allow women to have movements, comfort but irresistible beauty. This carried over into the following years and at the onset of the 20th century, corsets were recognized as a sign of femininity, class and prestige. Special corsets were designed for unique appearances and events for royalty and some of them are found in famous museums today. The biggest testimony of their timelessness is the fact that after over 400 years of existence, corsets are still regarded as a symbol of female beauty, seductiveness, and cultural class.

Today corsets can be bought in all shapes, colors, sizes and materials. The technologies of the modern world have allowed the design of ideal corsets; some of which even the richest of the rich of the centuries past could not imagine.  With this kind of attention to unique differences that every woman has, more and more female are discovering the kind of self-confidence that corsets instill. For many women this means looking beautiful, being comfortable and feeling attractive all day without the pain of constant dieting and rigorous exercising. As they have for the past centuries, corsets are defining women’s beauty and re-enforcing the fact that having curves, and being proud of what makes us feminine is the way to go.

With a great and affordable selection here at Atomic Jane Clothing, why not give one a try and fall in love.

 

AJC

The History of Burlesque

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A breath-taking costume, stage, and passion. Naughty; but just the right amount. Enticing and complexly mesmerizing? Absolutely. That’s right; I’m talking about burlesque.

The risqué art form has seen quite the resurgence over the past few years. Stars like Dita von Teese and the Pussy Cat Dolls put the art back on the map. There is even a popular burlesque version of the nutcracker. Which begs the question, just what is the sexy- dance and tease combo all about, and how did it begin? This post is all about the history of burlesque. Get ready to learn.

"Bon-Ton Burlesquers2" by H.C. Miner Litho. Co. - Library of Congress[1]. Licensed under Public Domain via Commons

It All Started With Vaudeville

Described as a “theatrical genre of entertainment,” but that description doesn’t come close to painting the exciting world it contained. Back in the early 1880’s through the 1930’s the vaudeville scene was hot!

Just imagine attending a show where each act is totally unrelated but equally awesome. Performers were so eloquently referred to as, “Vaudevillian’s.” Musicians, magicians, acrobats, jugglers…the list goes on and on. Not to mention the famous “freak shows,” and of course – burlesque dancers.

The Early Years

The art was not a bunch of women stripping, but it was an outlet of comedy, music, and one of America’s favorite sources of entertainment. And of course, there was the enormous sex appeal.

Back in the 19th Century, a burlesque performance might have been referring to a comedic play, or even a performance without any music. It was not until the mid-1800’s that it became a household beloved form of entertainment in America and Great Brittan.

The word itself comes from the Italian word, burla; meaning to mock or make a joke of. Which makes sense if you were to see the original performances. Serious subjects could be tackled with easy when they were approached as a parody. 

Lady Power

The sexy, scantily clad nature of burlesque made a huge dent for the positive, in the women’s place on the stage. Suddenly women were being respected even when not buttoned up from head to toe. Gender stereotypes broken down – full force.

As you can tell by the photo below, not everyone has been a fan of the art. Here in 1953 a local civic group in Long Branch, NJ, is seen protesting the opening of a burlesque show.

 

                    (Photo: AP Press)

The Cabaret

The shows we presently think of, with sexy strip tease and corsets galore, really took off in the Cabarets.

Cabaret’s were performance venues where the patrons sat at tables (maybe eating, or perhaps sipping cocktails,) while they enjoyed a full evening of being entertained by the stage in front of them.

France had the Moulin Rouge, not only inspiration for the beloved film, but birthplace of the Cancan dance. Here in America, the cabaret was all about jazz. Think; smokey night clubs, crooning starlets and a little bit of shake and shimmy burlesque dancing all the way.

This history lesson would not be complete without recognizing the classic Diva, Liza Minelli for her work in the Broadway stage turned-to-classic movie, called, what else? Cabaret!

                                (Photo: Christopher Isherwood)

In 1972, Ms. Minelli basically took over the world as Sallie Bowles. The homage to the scene also took over the Oscars that year; winning Best Director, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor and 5 behind the scenes awards. Pretty impressive.

Classic American Starlets

The 1940’s through the 1960’s still had a distinct strip-tease dancing flare, as the art was strong and alive here in the clubs. Two of the most prominent stars to emerge from the scene were Gypsy Lee Rose and Josephine Baker.

(AP Photo)

                   (Photo: Margie Hart, Lili St. Cyr, and Gypsy Rose Lee, AP Photo)

Gypsy Lee Rose

Gypsy was certainly a pioneer in the art of the strip tease. Ms. Von Teese often references her as the main source of her own inspiration. Always a saucy one, Gypsy incorporated a strong, witty, banter into her strip tease routines. Here is one of her famous statements showing off the sexy flare she had for teasing her audience;

“If a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing slowly…very slowly.”

Josephine Baker

Josephine rose to fame, after a life of hardships and growing up in poverty, during the Harlem Renaissance. Known for her impressive comedic timing and spellbinding stage presence, she basically took over the world with her iconic moves. After a long spell in France and a mega successful career there, she returned to the states to join the performance at the famous Ziegfield Follies.

The divine Ms. Baker may have solidified her place in history as a world class performer, but it was her work as a civil rights activist and humanitarian who adopted 12 children of different backgrounds that made her a true legend.

Neo-Burlesque

In 1990 the first Exotic Miss World brought a resurgence of interest in the beloved performing art. Stars like Catherine D’Lish were born and suddenly women were looking for classes and venues to learn how to shake it and provocatively tease.

Miss Dirty Martini

No neo-burlesque story would be complete without Miss Dirty Martini. Known for her reinvention of the fan-dance, she was the final Exotic Miss World Queen to be crowned in 2004.

"Miss Dirty Martini Show Musto Party 2011 David Shankbone 2" by David Shankbone - Own work. Licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Commons -

"Miss Dirty Martini Show Musto Party 2011 David Shankbone 2" by David Shankbone - Own work. Licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Commons 

Miss Martini still proves to women today, that you can be incredibly sexy and not to shy away from burlesque if you worry you might be a tad too curvaceous. Her adoring fans line up to see her regular performances in a number of venues in NYC, from leather bars to Carnegie Hall.

In 2010, Cher and Christina Aguilera teamed up for a movie called, that’s right, you knew it, Burlesque. In it, Christina goes to work at a Neo-Burlesque club and naturally lots of sexy dancing and powerful diva-esque singing ensued.

The film was inspired by no other than Cabaret and while it received bad reviews (Rotten Tomatoes said it was, “campy and clichéd,” before giving it a lousy 36%,) it still managed to make over $110 million dollars; so it seems a few people still managed to enjoy it.

Everyday Sexy

You don't have to be a performer to take advantage of this sexy look. Burlesque corsets can be incorporated, quite inconspicuously into your everyday fashion. Take a look at this Oscar statue inspired piece. 


This outfit is perfect for a black-tie party, night of clubbing - the gold-black-white combo is all glitz and class. 

Those ruffles and feathers can be hard to resist, and I complexly understand needing a piece that speaks to your inner burlesque-tease needs. So we put together this outfit. 


 

Want some help putting together your own burlesque outfit? We would love to hear your thoughts and help you create the perfect look. Leave us a comment or send an email to support@atomicjaneclothing.com.

Everything You Have Every Wondered About Corsets, Part 2

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This is part 2 of a blog series where we are talking about everything you have every wondered about corsets.



In this post, we will be covering waist training, seasoning your corset, and health benefits of corset wear. We are also covering how to choose the right size, and finally, addressing the myths and rumors around corsets being dangerous. Take a look at Part 1 for more information and on other corset-related topics.  


What is Waist Training?

Every day there is a new celebrity whose Instagram is filling up with waist training praise. Here are all the details. 


Waist training is a process of wearing a steel boned corset to semi-permanently mold your waist into an hourglass figure. Considered a body modification technique, over a long period of time the continuous pressure and remolding, will leave you with a waist that retains an hourglass figure. Even when the corset is not worn. What it will not do, is make you lose weight. Sadly enough, you will still need the old-fashioned diet and exercise for that goal. 

Waist training takes enormous dedication.  When done properly it produces noticeable results. Many users swear they also experience other positive benefits. 


How soon can you see results from waist training?

You know the old rule, hair grows a ½ inch per month? Unfortunately, there is no exact formula like this for training the waist.  Results vary based on the individual's circumstances and other factors. Here is the breakdown. 


Amount of body fat
The softer your waist and stomach area is, the amount in inches a corset may be able to" pull it in," or cinch, is significantly greater. But it will take longer for the fat to diffuse and remold itself to other areas of the waist. 



If your stomach and waist area is mostly muscle there won't be a huge change seen in the circumference of the waist at first. But, the body will be quicker to retain the hourglass shape when not wearing a corset.

Other factors
A properly fitting corset is key. The piece should be flat against the body without bulges or bends. Consist wear of the trainer is required. Working up to wearing the piece 8 hours to then skip a week is not going to produce the same results as those who are consistent. 


Seasoning your corset 

Let's talk about seasoning. You may have heard the term on a blog or a corsetry shop and wondered what it meant. Seasoning your corset is a fancy way of saying; break it in. The same way you would not wear a new pair of stiff shoes for a prolonged period of time; your corset also needs time to adjust to the shape of your body. 

Corsets are made to be pulled tightly, but they need to gradually be worn over a few wears before achieving a tight-lace.  By working up to long periods of wear slowly, you have a better chance of the bones warping well with your curves. The fabric, stitching, and eyelets will remain undamaged when properly seasoned.  

This advice is especially poignant for waist training corsets, which are crafted with steel bones, and firm material. 


Do fashion corsets require seasoning?
Generally, fashion corsets are not intended for prolonged use. A waist training corset might be worn every day under your clothes vs a fashion corset worn for a single outfit. Fashion corsets often have fabric laces vs the firm cord laces of a waist training corset. You should still gradually allow the corset to get used to your body before fully tightening the laces, but you do not have to wait multiple wears. 


Are corsets dangerous?

There is plenty of bad information to go around about the safety of corsets. In the Victorian Age, there were warnings about wearing a tightly laced corset.  They ranged from moving the internal organs to a completely different place in the body to causing hysteria and even death.

As grotesque and terrifying these assumptions were, it teaches us 2 things;

  • People in the Victorian Age did not understand how a corset worked.
  • It was best not to get sick back then since it seems doctors didn't have much of an idea of how the human body in general worked. Scary stuff!

Note: This scene below; has never happened. I promise. 

"Fatal effects of tight-lacing cropped" by Unknown - Cropped version of http://www.vads.ac.uk/large.php?uid=78503&sos=4. Licensed under CC BY 4.0 via Commons

To answer the question; no. Corsets are not dangerous. With proper use and wear corsets are completely safe. They can help you achieve a cinched waist look or be used to train the waist. 

The process of waist training is also safe and does not damage your body. In fact, a study done by orthopedic surgeons in Japan found that wearing a corset could actual help some of their chronic pain patients. 


What are the benefits of waist training or corset wearing?

The obvious benefit of training your waist, or corset wearing, is being happy about the way you look when you have one on. When we feel confident, sexy, and proud of our silhouettes it's pretty awesome. 


Corsets by nature also improve your posture while tightened around the body. There are certain medical conditions and ailments that are said to improve by wearing a corset. I can personally tell you from experience, if I wear one while I am sitting at the computer for an extended period of time, my back feels better than usual. While we totally want you to feel better if this is a problem you experience, you should definitely talk with the doctor first. Ask if a corset might help you out with pain before you go trying one out for solely this purpose. 


Should I buy my corset in a smaller size than I regularly wear?

This is a common question.  Customers wonder should they buy a size down than they would regularly wear? Since the end goal is achieving a waist that is smaller than an un-corseted size, I understand how this could be confusing. 

No, you should not buy a corset that is too small. Let's talk about sizing.

The process of choosing a size for any garment, especially when purchasing online can seem daunting. Size charts are fantastic but confusing too. My own measurements put me in the medium category for bust, but my waist and hips are large. A full-figured woman with a large bust might have the opposite outcome, with her bust requiring a large and waist coming in at a small. 

First decide, what type of corset you want. 

The Overbust, the Bustier, and Corset dress
Overbust and bustier corsets cover the bust and can meet at the high or low waist. The long line option will come down over the lower hips (area where regular jeans would end) extending to cover about half of the hip area. 


The easy solution; size for your bust. If you don't have enough room up there for the girls the corset will not be comfortable. The laces will be able to pull everything else, the hips and waist, together. In my case of a smaller bust, I don't want there to be a gap between my bust and the fabric so I would still order for my bust size. 


The Underbust
An underbust corset starts at the hips and ends just below the bust. They can be worn under clothing to shape or for waist training. They can also be worn over clothing to achieve both cinching and fierce fashion. 

Since the bust is not involved, for this piece you size for your waist. 


How do I measure myself?

Tools required: Tape measure
When measuring the bust, you want to get the numbers from the fullest point. Think, the middle area where your bra cup holds you up. Measure yourself bra free. 

Wrap the tape around your back and pull up to meet the area you will be measuring. Make sure you are standing up straight. Next continue the tape around your bust area. Pull taut, but not tight. What I mean here is you do not want any bulge around the tape – we want to see an accurate circumference.  However many inches you get is your bust measurement. 


Waist
The first step is finding your natural waist. Often this is the smallest part of your waist. You can check out our sizing chart below for guidance if you are unsure of where this is. A good test to confirm you have found your natural waist is standing in front of the mirror and bending side to side. The "bend," is the natural waist.

As with measuring the bust, you want the tape taut, but not tight. The tape should be flat against your body with no creasing. You do not want to hold in your stomach while measuring, but you do want to be standing straight. 


If you are having trouble choosing the size for you, we are always available to help you out. Email support@atomicjaneclothing.com and a member of our team will help you pick. 



 

Everything You Have Ever Wondered About Corsets

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Part 1

We've gotten tons of great questions from you about wearing a corset. In this 2 part blog series, we'll touch on everything you've ever wondered about corsets! Let's get started.

When wearing a corset should there be space between the area where it ties?

This question is super common. To be clear, what we are talking about is: after the corset is already on your body, fastened, and tied up. Should the fabric on each side of the cords be touching? The answer: No. Typically the back will be open between the panels about 3 inches, but sometimes as much as 5 inches. Our polka dot friend below gives an idea on what to expect once your corset is against your body fully laced. 

If you have a corset that leaves a gap between the panels when it is tied, this does not indicate you ordered an incorrect size. This is how it should be fitting. There are other indicators of incorrect size and we will talk about choosing sizes in Part 2.

Should you prefer the back not be open, then look for a corset that has a modesty panel.

What is a modesty panel?

A modest panel is a fabric square in the back of the corset located underneath the area where the laces are tied up. Without a modesty panel, there will be a gap and a portion of the skin on your back may show.

Most fashion corsets, meaning corsets not intended strictly for waist training, will not have a modesty panel. Notice I said most, but not all.

We carry a few dozen fashion corsets that do have a modesty panel. Simply do a search and include the words, “modesty panel” to find the ones that do. This beautiful brown over bust below is an example of a waist training corset with modesty panel. 

  

Waist training corsets will usually come with modesty panels. The reason being, waist training corsets are tight laced and the panel protects the skin from being irritated by the cords rubbing against the body over a long period of time.

Heavy cord laces are used in waist training corsets vs the ribbon laces on a fashion corset. Ribbon laces are soft and again, not being tied as tightly so they should not cause any problems against bare skin. This adorable floral, pink corset is a fashion corset with a modesty panel. 

 

Am I supposed to wear a bra with a corset?

To best answer this question, we will discuss a few different types of corsets.

Overbust Corsets

An overbust corset is a corset that goes over the bust area. It could also be called a corset top. Styles include sleeveless, halter and strapped. A proper fitting overbust corset will offer bust support. You do not need to wear a bra with an overbust corset; the snug fit around the bust area will hold everything in place.

That being said, most overbust corsets do not offer individual cup support. If that is the look or support you are going for, try a bustier. Bustiers do have individual cups, most with underwire support, and offer a more pronounced lift.

Corset Dresses

Corset dresses will look and feel absolutely fine bra free. There will be some level of support but if you are looking for major cleavage, and you're on the more petite side, then you will most likely need to add a strapless bra. Another option, of course, is a stick on silicone material bra, commonly known as the “chicken cutlets” to add a little oomph to your bust.

Underbust Corsets

An underbust corset does exactly what it sounds like; it goes under your bust and is typically worn with a top of some kind, such as a peasant top, a tank top or a fuller sleeved blouse. The standard is, if you would normally wear a bra with the top you select, then continue to do so. The underbust corset does not provide support, so if you need it, pick a bra type that works, but keep it comfortable.

 

If you're looking for bust support or cleavage, here's some advice about which bra type to choose and how to wear it.

Try to choose a soft underwire free bra. Reason being, most underwires will come down further than where the underbust corset meets. If this happens you will have to decide if you want to wear the bra over the edge of the underbust or keep it underneath.

Keeping it underneath has the potential to get very uncomfortable, very quickly but it looks better. Another downside to tucking the bra into the under bust is producing a “double lift” effect that will not look natural, especially when seated.

If you can wear a bra without the underwire, you will be more comfortable in the long run.

For a waist training underbust worn under the clothes, consider using a sports bra if you have been blessed with that full figure everyone vies for and you are looking for serious support.

One more possibility is wearing a camisole with a built-in bra. This option works best for ladies with smaller busts. It also provides a liner between the skin and the underbust.

One last note about bras with corsets. If you are going to wear a bra with any of your corset pieces, there is a possibility that the size you normally wear might not fit the same way. You may have to size down the circumference and /or size up the cup size. 

Part 2 of the series will review how to tie your corset by yourself, what “seasoning” is, how to tell if your corset is the wrong size and more. Be sure to come and check it out to get the rest of your questions answered.

In the meantime, if there is anything we can answer for you, we are always happy to help. You can contact us support@atomicjaneclothing.com

How to Incorporate Your Summer Pieces into Fall

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Summer's over - but great fashion never ends

Hey there Atomic Ones! It’s that time of year again. Still pretty warm but technically, at any moment, it will be jacket weather. On one hand, a great excuse to wear that boyfriend sweater or blazer. On the other hand, if we are going to be a bit more “covered up” then the fashion that is left showing needs to include a real attention getter. 

Here are some ideas on how to incorporate some corset pieces into your fall wardrobe and other outfits and keep on looking good.

Idea #1. Overbusts

Overbust corsets are just what the name describes..they cover the bust as opposed the an underbust which stops just under your bust line. An overbust corset can either stop at the upper hip or it may be what we call a "longer lined" piece which stops at the middle hip and is great if you have a long waist. Take a look here at four examples of the more common corsets which stop at the upper hip:

 

   

    

All four cover the tummy area keeping the waist nice and defined, and there is a clear definition of your hips. These are comfortable material, the top right blue one is one is denim. Don't you just love those adorable white laces up the front and the classy Houndstooth print? 

These corsets stop at the upper hip and are strictly fashion pieces. They feature acrylic boning and are fun and versatile.

Most fashion corsets have a ribbon lace-up back, which is another reason they are considered fashion pieces rather than waist trainers, which will have a heavy cord lace up for tight cinching like these two longer lined steel boned over busts below:

Now these two waist trainers are serious!  They are examples of what we mean by long-lined corsets and perfectly equipped for cinching with their 26 steel bones and heavy cord lace up in back.

However, waist trainers can also be found, commonly, in a length that sits on the upper hip as opposed to the longer-lined style. Both will do the job. It's just a matter of style and your preference.

These two longer-lined waist training corsets are beautiful and classy and will go perfectly under the right jacket with pants. The strapless design is perfect to showcase a necklace and earrings.

Finally, any of the above over bust corsets can be paired casually with a sweater or jacket depending on the look your after and the weather, of course! XXXXXXXXX

                                                    

Idea #2. Bustiers

Before we look at a few bustier examples, let’s clear up exactly what a bustier is and how it is different from a corset.


Bustier’s are similar to corsets in the way they hug and define the body. Where they differ is on shaping the bust and creating a well-supported cleavage.  After all, everyone loves a beautiful cleavage, right?

They also tend to have a hook and eye closure in back giving them more of a pretty lingerie look, and have acrylic boning.

Two reasons to love this jeweled crop top bustier; it can be paired with a long skirt for a dressy look, and it's a gorgeous reflection of some of fall's oranges and reds with some added sparkle.

Going From Work to Play

I've always admired women who could go straight from work to after work fun without having to change clothes first. They know the secret is in leaving the house in an already versatile outfit.

Personally, I've tended to bring a bulky bag of after-work gear with me to the office, that is, until I invested in corsets. They are so easy to start the day with a more professional or "work" look with the right pants and jacket and with little hassle, just change out afterwork with those long fabulous earrings and sexy heels for after hours...the best of both worlds.

 

 

     

     

Moving on…

Idea 3. The Easy Dress

Sometimes when you're looking for something super simple to wear, you should consider the "easy dress." This Chevron dress, when paired with sneakers and a few bracelets, can certainly make your errand time feel and look quite chic. 

Change the look a little with a pair of flats and a belt. Now...you have something a little dressier. Best of all – it has sleeves! When those chilly days hit, you won't be freezing and wishing you'd brought a sweater. Thinking to slip on something with sleeves might just allow you to extend you enjoyment of eating a bit longer in that lovely, outdoor patio area.

Idea 4. Vegan Leather

Vegan leather looks just as sexy and sleek as traditional leather, but without involving animals. How we love that!  Vegan leather can contain cork or kelp-based product blends of other synthetic ingredients.

Depending on the piece it may be slightly more breathable than traditional leather. Vegan leather is a micro-fiber material and different from PVC leather. PVC leather also does not involve animals. It is more commonly known as pleather. PVC leather, while kind to animals, is not so kind to the environment. 

Leather is always a consistent fall look so consider incorporating a beautiful faux leather corset as the mainstay of your outfit and just accessorize around a fabulous piece like this one:

Leather can be a powerful statement piece. It’s classy, sophisticated and bold. It can also be kept feminine. This leather corset paired with a jacket and smudged eye makeup capture a badass, yet feminine look.

Another benefit of going vegan vs. traditional leather is that it's much easier to clean and take care of. 

Vegan or faux leather should be laundered per the garment tags instructions. Each piece will be different, but you can be sure it is easier and less expensive that having traditional leather dry cleaned.

 

Patent Leather

Patent leather was invented in the 1960's by adding a glossy coat over traditional leather. Todays patent leather is usually a synthetic material. To avoid patent leather made from animal products, check inside the garment for stamps reading "genuine patent leather," otherwise, it is safe to assume you have imitation patent leather.

Patent leather is known for its wet-look, ultra shiny finish. It's popularly used in belts, clutches, and Mary-Jane style shoes.

Treat your shiny patent leather pieces the same way you would a mirror, wipe them down with glass cleaner and dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Buffing scuffs on patent leather with mineral oil is an alternative method. Scuff marks on white patent leather can be treated with a diluted white vinegar and warm water mixture. 

Do not iron patent leather or steam it. 

Removing Oily Stains

If you've accidentally dripped something oily (aka- taking a big bite of a juicy hamburger) onto your favorite fall leather outfit, don’t panic!! This is not a deal breaker.

Get some baby powder or corn starch and completely cover the stain with a good thick dusting. The powder will lift the oil from the garment. For best results, leave it on overnight. You might have to repeat the process, but chances are you have saved the piece. Hooray! 

Extra Curvy Ladies – We’ve got your size

Most of our overbust corsets and our bustiers run from S - 2X. However, we also have a large selection of popular and stunning pieces in sizes up to 6X. You can view some of these by clicking here. 


As always if you are unsure of what size to order or you want to shoot us an email letting know how your previous corsets have worked out, we are always available. You can contact us at support@atomicjaneclothing.com or you can email me directly at jessica@atomicjaneclothing.com

Tight Lacing and the Origin of the Corset

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If you were born with the world's most perfect hourglass figure, well congratulations! Don't go leaving yet, this post is still for you, because corsets were designed to enhance the natural female form. Quite frankly, all body types can still use a little "something extra" for special occasions.

Now, for the rest of us who may not have been born with perfect curves or have some serious desires to grab attention with a tiny waist, there is hope for us yet. Over the last few years, tight lacing has seen a popular resurgence. But, what is tight lacing, exactly?

   

The method reduces your waist by 4 inches or more, or about 20%. Please keep in mind everyone and every body type is different, meaning this number may change.

This may not be something you choose to do every day. Let me clarify that.  Tight lacing has its place. If you are not looking to train your waist semi-permanently, you can still see some pretty cool results.  Burlesque, cosplay, and special occasions are all times when you may want to tight lace. 

Wait A Minute, So Is It The Same As Waist Training?

This is a great question. The term waist training usually refers to the process of trying to semi-permanently or permanently change the shape of your waist. It involves a very strong, well-fitting corset worn over many hours each day. Sometimes it is even worn while sleeping and in some cases while exercising.

Most popularly an underbust style corset, (such as thing one below,) would be chosen if looking for these types of results.

To achieve the desired effect, the lacing would be pulled tightly. However just because all waist training uses tightly laced corsets, does not mean all tightly laced corsets are training your waist.  That was a tongue twister!

Choose a corset that can be repurposed for everyday, like in this example:

So, How Do I Tightly Lace My Corset?

To achieve proper form, first, you need a strong foundation in terms of which corset you decide to choose. Choose a strong corset that is well made and will not rip.  A corset that can be tight laced may have acrylic bones; but try and limit to this type of boning when you are only intending on being laced for a short amount of time (i.e. a special evening, or photo shoot). For long-term wear, choose a corset with steel bones so the shape stays in place and there is no worrying about the bones warping over time.  Just as when choosing any type of corset, making sure to purchase the correct size is essential. Here in this example, we can see all of the ideal elements: well made, steel boning and beautiful!

Now this one here is acrylic boned, but it has hard wearing material so there is no creasing when pulled tight. 

 

Examples of In Modern Times

Dita Von Teese, burlesque dancer / entertainer extraordinaire is known for her hourglass-laced figure. If you are not familiar with Dita's art, here is a short bio from her website Dita.net:

"Taking audiences on a journey into fantasy and spectacle, Dita is renowned for her ornate sets and dazzling haute-couture performance costumes...""

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 "Dita Von Teese at Cannes 2007" by Mireille Ampilhac - originally posted to Flickr as Cannes 2007. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The quote goes on to list her as a "Burlesque Superheroine". That's pretty awesome.

Corset History Lesson Time!

The actual term “tight lacing”, comes from the laces that are pulled through the holes, going up the back of a corset. Here is another element of a well-made piece; thick, strong laces and metal eyelets, or grommets, to reinforce the holes. This dress has both. You won't have any pulling at the site due to the extra stitching and steel ringlets.

The word corset comes from a French term meaning, "a kind of laced bodice". They really gained traction during Victorian fashion, but they were by no means a new invention. The first one known to be documented was spotted back in 2000BC, so this is some serious vintage fashion we are talking about! Thanks to how fabulous wearing one looks and feels there is now a much larger selection available and women are not limited to only one style

If you take a day to browse around your local museum, chances are you will see many ladies wearing corsets back in the 16th century. Original corsets were meant to flatten the torso while also raising the bust. They were worn under garments. The added benefit of a tiny waist had not yet been discovered.

The corset stayed around for a few hundred more years. During this  time, the big shoulder was really in.  Think 80s shoulder pad x10.  By the time the Victorian period hit, though, the shoulder was out  and it was finally time to get that cinched waist going. Eyelets were not added until around 1828 and 2 years later the front  faster eyelets came into existence. 

This made putting them on a  whole lot easier because women no longer had to get completely  unlaced to get in and out; saving time and effort.

"...the best gift of all: you will love the way you look."

The Modern Everyday Corset

 The corset of today does not require the time and effort commitment  of corsets past nor does it ever need to be done up tightly (unless that is the look you are going for).

These pieces can be worn under blazers or cardigans and paired with skirts or pants. The sexy, fun and vintage element they bring to an outfit will bring compliments and the best gift of all: you will love the way you look.

Ouch! My Corset Hurts

There is one very important rule to remember when attempting to get that perfect waist.  If while wearing your bustier, you are gravely uncomfortable or your corset is painful, then something is wrong. That old saying; "it hurts to be beautiful", should not take a literal form in this scenario. Possible reasons for why a piece might cause discomfort might be quite easy to fix.  

You might be wearing the wrong size. Another problem might be the way you are lacing your corset. We have a whole post coming soon on how to lace your corset, so stay tuned for that if you think this might be where your problem is coming from. In the meantime, do not be afraid to reach out to Atomic Jane Clothing with questions you might be having with comfort or fit.

You can email support@atomicjaneclothing.com if you are not sure about which size to start with, and if that feels a bit too formal, leave a comment and I will get back to you in whatever way is easiest for you. We want you to look good, but more importantly we want you to feel just as good!

 

The Steampunk Wedding Party And a Bit of Steampunk History To Inspire You

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Has anyone noticed the Steam Punk Wedding is finally getting the recognition it deserves and no longer just a "trend"? We're pretty excited about it and think it makes plenty of sense.

Steampunk style incorporates classic, Victorian, vintage, and fantasy all boiled down into a sci-fi paradox that screams, "hey, this is what the past could have looked like, in the future" or better known as retro-futuristic.

Oh, and sometimes there are goggles involved, but they aren't required. All of these influences are excellent motifs for the unique-modern wedding. Most importantly, it's fun and that's really the most important part to add to the big day. 

I know, I know...you already love it and want us to get to the good stuff.

 * One more small note before we get into it, the answer is, yes, a future blog is dedicated especially for the bride (because it's her day and because, yeah, she's the bride – and deserves her own post).

The Steampunk Bridesmaid

A Steampunk wedding means there is a wedding party to dress! This piece is a perfect choice for a bridesmaid. 

The corset features a black trim keeping its style a little bit edgy, but the grey lightens things up. The lace overlay brings a touch of romance to the special love-filled occasion and the belt will tie the outfit together; no matter what bottom piece is decided on.  Here are a few ideas if you are thinking, "ok, but what should be worn as a bottom?".

Think of adding a black tulle skirt (long or short) or add other elements of your wedding décor into the bridesmaids look. Are you having velvet tablecloths or a touch of leather in your place settings? Use the fabric and colors you have already planned for the occasion as some inspiration to pull this look completely together.

Um, That Looks Great On You!

Pictures are one of the best parts of a wedding. The memories are captured and of course, there is the social media sharing – after all, if you are having a Steampunk wedding, that is way too fantastic not to post online. But, when photos are being taken from every angle by guests and professionals it means a little too much "holding your breath and standing up straight" or else end up tagged in a photo from a bad angle.

We have all been there with that, "OMG how could you take that picture of me and put it on Instagram" feeling. Trust me, having a corset on means this won’t happen.

More Ideas for Steampunk Weddings

Here is another piece that can be used for some inspiration that is also a beautiful choice for a bridesmaid. This brown corset has sleeves so there is a little more coverage and the Victorian design overlay keeps it feminine to balance the metal.

And your bridesmaids are going to look good. Really good.

We carry a wide range of sizes so all of your friends are covered in that department, and by nature, corsets are made to "pull it all together," meaning, those photos we mentioned, are going to rock!

Can I Wear This Again...Tomorrow?

The best part about wearing a corset is the fit. Have you heard that old cliché that refers to buying a bridesmaid dress that looks awful, the women dislike, and even worse, that it will never be worn again? That simply does not apply when half your outfit is a Steampunk corset!  Pieces can be incorporated into an everyday look by pairing with jeans or a skirt.

Welcome To The Wild-Wild Steampunk West

Steampunk is fantasy, and yes, it is often a sci-fi fusion of time periods, but some Steampunk has a “western- about to conquer the last frontier” feel to it. Let's talk a bit about the style elements and how the western appeal is involved in the whole package. Who knows? It might bring some additional wedding decorating ideas.

A Bit Of Steamy History

This cross-over into the Wild West makes plenty of sense, considering that the Victorian influence in Steampunk style, references a time period- which runs approximately 1837-1901. Within that time period, some of the larger historical events that occurred also happen to contribute elements of Steampunk couture. 

The Industrial Revolution period occurred in 1750 through 1840. This super-fast urbanization pushed workers from the farms to the factories where they were surrounded by deadlines (enter the pocket watch and clock motif), metal (can we say "gears" anyone?) and of course, jobs like welding where stuff flying at your face all day, meant using some eye protection (Goggles, we knew you would show up eventually!)

The use of steam power exploded during the Industrial Revolution. Steam powered railways were built and used to transport workers and materials. The use of steam-powered boats and ships increased dramatically to assist with the growing need for transportation and of course, there were also whole steam powered factories. The   introduction of steam-powered machinery is what put the “Steam" in that "Punk".

...and at the same time...

14k Solid Gold Rush Style

Throughout history there have been many gold rushes and  in the United States between 1799 and early 1900s, some  of the major ones included the Klondike Gold Rush which  brought more settlers to our newest state Alaska, and  most notably, the California Gold Rush that began in 1848  and lasted until about 1855. Populations exploded with  new settlers who wanted to cash in on "The American  Dream".

Saloons, Ragtime and Corsets (Oh MY!)

A gold miner's life was not easy. What better way to relax and forget all your gold mining worries, than a visit to the saloon. The imagery of a vested bartender, donning a handlebar mustache may come to mind, but don't forget the music. This was ragtime territory!

Imagine this: corseted ladies, sitting at a dusty piano, playing everyone's favorite song while shooting whisky. Perhaps whisky shots might replace the champagne toast at your Steampunk wedding? Just a thought. 

Underbust Corsets: Formal, Western, and Fabulous.

Now that we have left the history lesson, and hopefully sparked some ideas and future Pinterest boards, (check out what we've got going on over at Pinterest here) for planning your big day, let's get back to bridesmaids.

This last piece, a brown underbust with buckle accents is extremely versatile, and here's why. An underbust, by design goes, well, it goes under your bust! Something needs to be worn underneath it and that something could be the more traditional or simple bridesmaid's dress. Adding an underbust is a nice option for the wedding that "loves Steampunk" but wants only a few key elements.

What makes this piece even more fun is it can be thrown on with jeans, a tank, and a pair of boots and I promise you are going to impress. 

I hope we have been able to give you some ideas about your wedding or any formal affair where you would like to incorporate Steampunk couture. If you have any questions about sizes or need help choosing the perfect piece, you can always email me at jessica@atomicjaneclothing.com or contact our customer service at support@atomicjaneclothing

 

 

Clothes to Wear With *Corsets*

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A corset top definitely makes a sexy statement. But because it's such a bold piece of clothing, it can be tough to figure out what to wear with it. A corset makes an ideal layering piece for an evening out, but you can also dress it down to wear it during the day. The key is pairing it with pieces that add a little more coverage to your look so you don't feel too exposed.

Cover Up

If you want to ease your way into wearing a corset, putting it under a blazer is an ideal option. Go for a bold contrast by pairing a menswear-inspired pinstripe blazer over a lacy white corset and dark-wash skinny jeans. Add black peep-toe pumps and statement earrings like crystal chandeliers or oversize silver hoops to finish off the outfit. Or try an elegant velvet blazer in a striking teal over a black satin corset and a black pencil skirt for a dressed-up look. Strappy silver stilettos and a strand of pearls give the look a chic, sophisticated vibe. You can also swap the blazer for a fitted cardigan for a softer mood. For an edgy twist, pair a satin or lace corset with a leather jacket, distressed denim pencil skirt and motorcycle boots.

Go High

Pairing your corset with high-waisted bottoms is another way to make it more wearable. The high-waist covers the bottom of the corset so you don’t have to worry about your stomach being exposed. Put on a pink velvet corset with a high-waisted satin pencil skirt in delicate pink-and-white floral print for date night. Throw on a pair of navy velvet pumps, a delicate gold pendant necklace and a few gold bangles for a look that’s sexy and stylish. Or wear a simple nude-colored corset with a pair of high-waisted black trousers. Layer an animal print cardigan over the corset and add black heeled ankle boots for a look that’s casual enough to wear during the day.

Short-en Up

It can be tricky to wear a mini-skirt with a corset because your outfit can veer into tacky territory pretty quickly. For a look that’s a little more classy, combine your top with shorts instead of a skirt. In the summer, pair a denim corset with a simple pair of khaki shorts and gladiator sandals for a low-key casual look. Add a straw fedora and aviator sunglasses to really tie the outfit together. For an evening out, wear a red satin corset with tailored black shorts that feature a scalloped hem. Accessorize the outfit with peep-toe black booties and a statement necklace, like a bib style with red and pink stones, to send a bold, sexy message.

Layer Up

While it’s more common to layer items over a corset, you may want to experiment with layering yours over a tee -- it’s an easy way to make a corset more wearable and appropriate for daytime. Put on a black lace corset over your favorite basic white tee. Add a denim mini-skirt, red hoodie and black canvas tennis shoes to finish off the outfit. Or layer a navy corset over a loose-fitting chiffon blouse in blush or peach. Pair it with skinny jeans and knee-high boots for a chic, sophisticated outfit.

by Jennifer Blair, Demand Media

What is steampunk?

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STEAMPUNK 101 

What is steampunk?

In three short words, steampunk is Victorian science fiction. Here “Victorian” is not meant to indicate a specific culture, but rather references a time period and an aesthetic: the industrialized 19th century. Historically, this period saw the development of many key aspects of the modern world (mechanized manufacturing, extensive urbanization, telecommunications, office life and mass-transit), and steampunk uses this existing technology and structure to imagine an even more advanced 19th century, often complete with Victorian-inspired wonders like steam-powered aircraft and mechanical computers.

    

Where did steampunk come from?

In some sense, steampunk has existed since the 19th century. The Victorian period had its own science fiction, perhaps most famously embodied by the works of Jules Verne and H. G. Wells, and throughout the 20th century there have been later-day science fiction stories set in the Victorian period. However, the term “steampunk” was not coined until the late 1980s, when author K. W. Jeter used it humorously to describe a grouping of stories set in the Victorian period written during a time when near-future cyberpunk was the prevailing form of science fiction.

Where does the sci-fi come in?

The line between steampunk and period Victorian is extremely narrow, and often the two are indistinguishable. They are separated only by steampunk’s status as science fiction, albeit heavily inspired by the historical fact of the Victorian period. This is generally accomplished in one of two ways. The “proto-steampunk” stories of the 19th century can be seen as a parallel to our own science fiction; that is, a view of the future from the present. For the Victorians, this meant imagining a future that looks dramatically un-modern to modern eyes. Submarines, space travel, aircraft and mechanized life were all imagined by the Victorians, but while some of these came very close to the mark they still differed from where the future actually went. For modern writers, with the benefit of modern science, steampunk becomes a re-imagining of the 19th century with a view of where science will one day go. In this way, steampunk often works to translate modern concepts such as the computer revolution, spy thrillers, noir mysteries and even the Internet into a Victorian context using Victorian technology. Steampunk becomes the perfect blending of alternate history and science fiction.

Where does the steam come in?

Steampunk’s steam references more than simply the technology itself, although steam engines are a vital aspect of life in a steampunk world. Steam more generally signifies a world in which steam technology is both dominant and prolific. During the Victorian era, steam power revolutionized almost every aspect of life. The steam engine made full-scale industrialization possible and produced mechanical power more efficiently and to greater degrees than human and animal labor could manage on their own. Mechanized manufacturing and farming caused an upheaval in the structure of working life, but they dramatically increased society’s productivity and freed up an entire section of society to form the modern class of professionals and office workers. The changes in society brought on by steam-driven industrialization allowed for the unprecedented developments in sciences, society and goods that came to be associated with the Victorian era. Steampunk takes inspiration from these changes and applies them to whatever culture it influences.

Where does the punk come in?

Ironically, it doesn’t. As was mentioned earlier, the term “steampunk” is a tongue in cheek reference to the cyberpunk genre rather than a reference to the punk subculture. Moreover, “punk” in the context of punk rock was the product of very specific circumstances following the Second World War, which makes it fundamentally distinct from the Victorian aesthetic that inspires steampunk. However, individuals interested in exploring a steampunk equivalent to 20th century punk can find a wealth of material in 19th century counterculture groups ranging from the Luddites to utopians to hooligans. Add a dash of Victorian street culture and a sprinkling of ragtime, and steampunk “punk” comes into focus.

What about gears?

The gear is an easily recognized symbol of steampunk, but it is not unique to the genre. It was invented long before the 19th century and it remains in use today. The gear in steampunk joins related devices such as flywheels and pistons as the “power lines” of the steam age. Steam power is mechanical power and its transmission demands a network of moving parts in the same way that electrical power transmission demands wires. The gear on its own is not especially “steampunk” but when put to use in 19th century machinery it becomes a key icon of the genre.

What about goggles?

Goggles are often encountered in steampunk clothing and imagery, and this can create the misleading impression that they are somehow fundamental to the “steampunk look.” Certainly, goggles are associated with both science and mechanized travel, both of which are common themes in steampunk. However, this does not mean that everyone in a steampunk setting wears goggles; in fact, only people who have a reason to wear them do so, and then only while it is useful. As with scarves, driving coats, aprons and overalls, goggles are a piece of fashion that can help give life to a steampunk world when used properly and in moderation, but can rapidly border upon the ludicrous when turned into an end rather than a means.

What is the appeal of steampunk?

A genre as large as steampunk has a wide-ranging appeal. Some people are drawn to it from a love of the Victorian period. Others enjoy steampunk’s unique approach to technology: re-imagining modern capabilities with 19th century machines. Many people are drawn to it in light of its fashion aspects, which allow them to sample and even combine a range of clothing styles and accessories from across the 19th century world. One critical aspect of steampunk is the tremendous diversity of appeal it presents, which allows it to offer something for just about everyone. Steampunk is also aided by a more general neo-vintage movement, which has been steadily progressing through mainstream fashion, film and aesthetics, but even this cannot wholly explain steampunk’s appeal. The genre possesses a life of its own that draws in fans from countless directions and backgrounds into a world where fashion is tailored to the individual, goods are made to last, and machinery is still regarded as a thing of visual majesty.

Steampunk sounds great! Where’s an easy place to start?

The basic rule of thumb for steampunk is “start period and then add.” One of steampunk’s great advantages is that the period it is inspired by, the Victorian era, saw the invention of photography and cinematic film. These in turn allowed for a visual record of people from all different classes, cultures and backgrounds, providing an unprecedented amount of reference material. People looking for fashion ideas, character inspirations or scenes to describe can find a wealth of starting points in the countless vintage photographs and film reels left over from the 19th century. All that remains is to add to or modify the depictions to taste, though it must be remembered that many aspects of a steampunk world and its people will likely remain virtually indistinguishable from the period that inspires them.

by: G. D. Falksen

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