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

Knights in shining armor, using the phrase, “thou art,” and maidens with tousled curls mixed in with the perfect braid. As you might have guessed, I’m talking about Renaissance Faires.

In the US alone, there are over 60 major Fairs. That’s a whole lot of opportunities to get dressed up and swept away in the romance. Besides eating a huge piece of meat on the bone and drinking out of a chalice, there is also the opportunity to admire the costumes. Costumes galore!

Don’t feel like being yourself? Then be someone else. That’s the magic of the Renaissance Fair. For our readers who have never visited or have but never in costume, this post is for you. We have some costume ideas that will bring out your inner Maid Marion and a few corset pieces that can be re-purposed for everyday outfits. So without further ado, m’lady- let’s begin.

Speaking of Maid Marion…check out this number. Robin Hood won't be able to keep his eyes off you. Matching headpiece included. 

 

Game of Thrones

There was no way I could write about dressing up in a smokin’ awesome medieval costume and not mention everyone’s absolute favorite show. This show has taken the world by storm! Don’t’ worry, no spoiler alerts here.

 

The action! The drama! The sex!...and of course The Costumes! If you want to draw your costume inspiration from the most addictive show ever, here’s a few ideas.

Daenerys

The beloved mother of the dragons has a penchant for showing a bit of, ahem…skin. If you were thinking of something a little less scantily clad take a peek at this gorgeous Game of Thrones corset inspiration piece.

This underbust corset is just shimmery enough to say, feminine while watching a jousting match. You can slip this over a peasant style dress, or a simple maxi dress. After the faire don’t shove this one in the back of the closet. It can be worn over any style top. You will be little-in-the-middle and looking good every time you wear it.

Need a little more support?  This similar underbust corset comes with in a halter top. It also features heavy cord lacing and steel bones for a tighter lace. 

And after the faire…

 

OMG you have to unleash your inner steampunk-goddess with this one. We’ve put together this ensemble as inspiration. We would love to see what other ideas you come up with!

Cersei

Let your inner bad girl shine, by letting Cersei be your Game of Thrones costume inspiration. Cersei is best known for wearing a long, flowy gown, and a devious face.

Here are a few Game of Thrones Cersei dress styled gowns for your approval. This first gown, is one of our favorites! Take note of the silky gauze sleeves. The lace up bodice and braided trim perfectly complements the red coloring. Seriously, how often do we ladies get to wear anything with braided trim, right?

 

If red isn’t your color, take a look at this gown. Soft, creamy, dreamy, and gold. Fit for a Queen (or a Princess). The great part about these gowns is the “one and done” factor. Throw on a flower crown and a pair of sandals and- tada! You’re good to go.

Lady in Waiting

Now for me, the stress of being the head-lady-in-charge would be way too much work. I’m more of a lady in waiting. The lady in waiting is a cross between the queen’s personal assistant and a royal socialite. She’s still envied by all those peasants, but doesn’t have to make any decision on which village gets plundered next. The best of both worlds.

This green lady in waiting gown will keep the kingdom green with envy. It even comes with the adorable hat for those bad hair-fair days.

The Maiden

Not feeling the nobility? Try a maiden costume on for size. Maidens are “young unmarried women”. Be the fairest maiden of them all in this crushed gown trimmed in gold. The satin corset overlay and headpiece really pull the look together.    

While this dress is beautiful, if you're looking for the cinching that an underbust corset provides, you will need to create your own maiden costume complete with a true corset. Totally doable.

 

This brocade underbust corset is a fan favorite. The leather accents give it a bit of an armor feel. Don’t forget to admire all the lovely metal details, like the metal rivets over the triple leather cascade. You can easily create a maiden costume with a piece like this. Simply add a maxi skirt and your favorite tank, and you got maiden-central.

Because of the steel bones and back lace up closure, don't be afraid to lace this lovely corset up for the full waist cinch effect. 

 

Does black fit in better with your wardrobe? This black PVC underbust makes it easy to transform almost any outfit. Under the 4 buckles is a front bust closure.  Renaissance Faire friendly, and even a great starter piece you could wear over a blouse and under a blazer to the office.

 

The Ultimate List of Things to Do at a Renaissance Festival

Did you know there is a delicious wine made from honey called mead? Well if you didn’t, get ready to imbibe upon arrival. Be sure to grab yourself a bottle while you visit these not to be missed festivities:

• The Pub Sing. Here is your chance to let your inner pub song-singing star let loose! Grab yourself mug (or you might still have some of that mead left) and join in without abandon.
• The Arts and Crafts. Don’t forget to bring your wallet. Local craftsmen and women will have plenty of handmade goodies to peruse while you look stunning in your perfect attire.
• The Food. First, do not eat lunch before you go. Or breakfast- heck, don’t even fill up on water on your way there. Renaissance food is delicious, readily available, and messy! Be prepared to find all your favorite goodies for purchase on a stick. Think- meat, cake, and more meat.
• The Jousting Matches. Knights riding on horses ramming into each other with long poles.What's not to love?
• The Performers. Enjoy the jugglers, acrobats, town criers, and sword-fights. There’s a little something for everyone.

Before we finish, I have one more costume to show you- a little bit medieval, a little bit fairytale. The hooded gown! Don’t feel like looking everyone in the eye- now you don’t have to. 

Escape the sun or keep warm, depending on the time of year you're wearing one of these beauties.

Both gowns feature lace-up front ties and...matching petticoats! Now we all know, any excuse to get a petticoat is a good one. 

I can't wait to hear all about your Renassaince Faire adventures and of course, what you wore! Leave us a comment about your favorite piece from this blog, or about one of your own favorite Faire memories. 

We would love to help you choose the perfect costume. Contact us at support@atomicjaneclothing.com for any help with sizing or styles. 

 

Have you been enviously admiring your friend’s boudoir photo sessions from afar? If you are getting married soon, you may be considering having your own boudoir session. In either case, this post is for you! Today we are talking about how to have the perfect (ahem- and most flattering!) boudoir photo shoot ever. We will also learn a bit about the art of boudoir photography and how it all started. Let’s begin.

What is Boudoir Photography?

Boudoir photography is the art of  sexy, smoking hot photos. It's taking the time to invest in yourself and create a tangible memory that you can enjoy for the rest of your life. Boudoir photos are not smut, but more a classy-artistic opportunity for you to look and feel amazing. 

What To Wear, What to Wear

This question tortures women everywhere on a daily basis. Now add the stress of a photo shoot where the entire point is looking fantastically-sexy and it’s not hard to image panic setting in. Don’t worry. We got you. But first, we need to get real about body image.

Feeling Sexy

Tons of women have been known to love boudoir photography. They totally want to have their own shoot, but, you know, after they lose 20lbs. Or join a gym. Or (fill in blank with almost any answer).

There will always be something you wish you could change. Longer hair, softer elbows…
Here is the truth. You look great, today, right now- just as you are. All those imperfections and parts you wish you could tweak here and there? All of that can be strategically played down when working with a professional photographer. That’s what they do! It’s their job, literally, to make you look great. They know the angles, the lighting and all the tricks in the book.

Trust your photographer. If I just described your own fears about taking boudoir photos, set up a call with a photographer whose work you adore; and tell them your worries! Afraid of looking “fat”? There are camera angles and editing to glorify all your most sexy assets! All while minimizing the areas you might love, just not love enough to make front and center.

Clothes Can Be Sexy

Now that we’ve gotten the fear out of the way, let’s talk outfits. This is the fun part!
Boudoir demands a sexy outfit. Don’t confuse Boudoir with nudity- although, there are plenty of women who opt to take nude photoshoots- boudoir is all about the outfits. The allure, the tease…showing a bit of skin, but not too much. You have a range of options.

Corsets are a boudoir favorite and with good reason. They accentuate all the right areas, while "pulling it all in" and making you appear slimmer. This overbust corset above is girly, feminine and playful. It's not hard to imagine stretching out on a gorgeous backdrop and feeling beautiful while you wear it. 

If you choose to wear a corset to your boudoir photo shoot there's an endless amount of pairing options. Fishnets, hosiery, thongs, boyshorts...whatever your favorite bottoms might be- will seamlessly compliment your outrageous curves. 

This option above, a bustier babydoll, offers a number of benefits. First, the bracup top gives extra support and lift for some serious cleavage. Besides keeping the girls looking great, the loose flowy bottom can squash fears of having to show your tummy. This is a great option for a new mom, or any woman who prefers to hide the tummy. 

Another option is to wear a teddy. This red sheer bodysuit teddy offers peek-a-boo slits, but still provides coverage for a little mystique. While choosing a teddy to wear may seem like the "one and done" option, you still have some important choices to make when it comes to your outfit. Which brings me to our next topic, accessories. 

Accessories

We all know no outfit is complete without a little flare, here and there. Here are a few accessories to add that little something extra to your shoot:

• Crazy super-high heels. You know the kind. Those gorgeous ones from the magazines that you wonder allowed, "How does anyone walk around in those?"  What better time to try them out and make your legs look fantastic, then a boudoir shoot. After all, no walking is required. 
• Jewelry. Listen, you aren't going to be taking beautiful photos of yourself everyday, so if ever there was a time to buy those perfect teardrop earrings you've been eyeing- its now. Choose light jewelry like delicate bracelets. Consider not wearing a necklace as to keep your decolletage (aka: the cleavage) free to be the star of the show.   

Where to Take Your Photos

Choosing where you take your photos may depend on the photographer you choose. Some boudoir photographers have their own lovely, romantic, and comfortable studios. Others, however, can arrange to take your boudoir photos in your own home. A third option, is renting a luxury hotel room for the afternoon. You can scout out locations ahead of time, by checking hotel photos online. 

Above all else, you need to be comfortable and able to relax. Your photographer may have the lights and the camera, but if your all stiff and hate the environment its going to show in the final product. 

The History of Boudoir

The word boudoir comes from a French word that means; sulking. It was adopted as the name of French ladies dressing rooms. These rooms were grand, luxurious spaces where a lady could hang out, get dressed and take her time enjoying the art of "getting ready". 

Wedding Boudoir

Boudoir photography was also used in the past, as a gift to a fiance. This trend has made a comeback in a huge way. Today boudoir wedding shoots are extremely popular. So much so, that wedding boudoir photographers often book out months in advance, much like the service photographer. 

If you aren't sure what to get your finace as a wedding gift, trust me when I tell you- he will love a boudoir photo album. You will win the "best wife" award before you can even say, "I do." 

Nothing says blushing bride, like a white corset. This piece is complete with all the frills, lace, and ribbons. It is a perfect choice for a pre-wedding shoot. 

Like the old saying says: ...something borrowed, something blue. This blue satin overbust corset with black lace trim is sure to bring you all the good luck you need on your special day. 

Every woman wants to feel like a princess on her big day. There's no reason not to start feeling like royalty before the wedding. This beauty has steel bones, a sweetheart neckline, side zipper, and premium sequins. You are guaranteed to feel like the sexiest woman alive wearing this. Your fiance will agree. 

Hair and Makeup

Last but certainly not least; hair and makeup. For your special day if your photographer doesn't offer a hair and makeup professional, be sure to book your own. While you may be able to do your everyday makeup perfectly, a professional makeup artist knows what looks good on camera. 

So, what do you think? Are you ready for your own boudoir photoshoot? You deserve it girl! Now go take some great photos! We are always available here at Atomic Jane to help you choose the perfect outfit- so don't be afraid to reach out with any questions to support@atomicjaneclothing.com

 

 

 

 

In today’s post we are taking a look at some to die for pieces.  They all just so happen to be the same gorgeous color; purple. Besides browsing fantastic outfit inspiration, we are learning all about purple and hopefully surprise you with a bit of fun purple-trivia along the way.  If this is your favorite color you are in for a real treat. 

Royal Fashion 

Have you ever heard purple is the color of royalty? I’m here to tell you; it’s true. Back in the Byzantine Empire only the most important imperial rules wore this lovely hue. The Holy Roman Empire also used purple to signify royalty. If that isn’t enough evidence ask Japan. They associate purple with both aristocracy and the Emperor.

Feeling a bit regal but you haven’t quite locked down that European prince yet? I’ve got a few fashion ideas to hold you over.  Until you get your own purple coronation outfit. Take a look at this first piece.

This new arrival to the store is my absolute favorite. It’s soft, delicate, and just looking at it makes me feel like a queen. The mauve-purple tone is unique and creates versatile options for styling. It features a side zipper and back lacing. The satin fabric lets it feel as pretty as it looks. A pair of black skinny jeans or an A-line skirt would look amazing with this halter overbust corset. Throw a blazer and some sparkly earrings on then sit back and get ready for some royal attention.

If you want to add a bit of regal flare to your wardrobe, but can’t decide how, try these sheer purple thigh-highs. The pretty lace bands will keep them in place. Show off your legs with these subtle sexy tights.

Color Psychology

There is a whole field of advertising science dedicated to figuring out what us consumers think when we see a certain color. The field of color psychology is fascinating. Research shows that specific groups of people respond to color differently.

Have you ever been on a website that had totally conflicting neon colors and honestly you just couldn’t stand sticking around to see what they offered? Those websites, did not follow color psychology.

This corset here can be our example. What comes to mind when you see this corset? I would choose words like, Victorian, romantic, sexy and classic. Now imagine this corset was yellow and green plaid with orange polka dots. That would totally change my answer. That’s  the power color has over our perception.

The Business of Purple

Marketers and designers don’t choose colors to use in ad campaigns on a whim. Those intense Mad Men-style meetings full of whisky and cigarettes were not kidding. Advertising is serious business. 

Purple is used in advertising to mark a premium service. Think “the deluxe” package vs. the “the basic”. When used in the younger demographic, 18-27 years old, purple packaging screams; sexy and naughty. The 27 and older set view the color purple to say: superior, sophisticated and powerful.

That’s pretty amazing to think about. How many regal ads have you seen recently decked out in purple?

 

 

Want to give yourself some shape to show off your own “deluxe” packaging? Try an underbust corset. This purple underbust corset fastens in the front and laces up the back. Can be worn under clothing, but it’s so lovely I recommend showing it off over a white button up shirt or other long sleeve lightweight material items.

As a bonus, this piece can double as a waist training corset. It has steel bones, a modesty panel, and a heavy cord to lace-up. 

Magic and Mystery

Feeling a bit mysterious? Purple is the color of magic, imagination, and spirituality. So cool right? Who knew one color could so much symbolic influence.  

I’ve got the perfect mystical corset dress to spark your mysterious side. This strapless overbust corset dress can be worn for a burlesque performance, to spice up a costume, or if you are feeling a bit goth- throw on a pair of fishnets and hit the club. The sparkly brooch on the bust will guarantee you dazzle, even without adding a necklace. 

 

Soul philosophers consider shades of violet and purple to connect us to our higher state of consciousness.  On the spiritual side, those who study auras believe that those with a purple glow are in a state of balance and happiness.

 

This sheer purple overbust halter corset will put you in a state of happiness when you see how great you look in it. Sequin bling, ruffled bottom, and bows will put a smile on your face.

The Purple Eye

Let's talk make-up. 

Wearing strong colors like violet, purple, or fuchsia inspire the smokey-purple eye. Purple is the suggested go-to color when it comes to playing up green eyes, but its versatile enough to look good with any eye color or skin shade.

Highlight your new purple corset by adding a lavender smokey eye. Here is a fantastic tutorial for a simple purple eye over at isimplylovemakeup. Have some fun. Take your time and play around with different color palettes until you have found the right look for you.

Purple Hair

Our last section on the fabulous color of the day focuses on the super-hot trend, of rich crazy hair colors. Whether it’s pure purple passion or the ombre look- purple hair, is here to stay.

      

I think it’s safe to say, while the rest of us are drooling over how great this hair looks, no one loves purple hair more than the divine Miss Katy Perry.

Katy is an unstoppable force this days. She has been nominated for over 363 awards in the life of her career, winning 92 of them! Go Katy. Still hasn’t grabbed that Grammy (can you believe it??) but we all know she’s going to keep making great music, so it's maybe this will be her big year. 

Besides bestselling albums and sold-out tours, she also made history by being one of the select few to rule the world during her 2015 Super Bowl half-time show. Add to her list of achievements, having every color hair under the sun. Purple, being one of her favorites. Really, is there anything this woman isn’t doing?

 

You know what else Katy is a huge fan of? I'll give you a hint. Something that shows off her sexy hourglass figure, always flatters her, yet still comfortable enough for her to dance on stage for hours. If you guessed corsets, you win!

I've chosen this last corset especially with Katy in mind. I think she would love the front clasps and showing off her waist in this one. And of course, because it's Katy we are talking about- pants are optional. For everyone else- pair this with a skirt and get ready to feel sexy!

Have you been rocking the royal/ mysterious/ power-infused purple lately? Let us know in the comments if purple is your favorite and of course which corset you loved the most. If you need any help choosing the perfectly purple outfit, send us an email at support@atomicjaneclothing.com  

We are always available to answer your questions on size, shipping, or all things corset.