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10 Victorian Fashion Corsets for Everyday

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Victorian Fashion Corsets for Everyday

What do you know about the Victorian era? Did you know that corsets were a large part of the trend in this period? Read on and learn about the ten Victorian fashion corsets for every day, among many other topics and fine details of the Victorian era!

Victorian Fashion

The Victorian style changed the world. In the early 1900's, new machinery, as well as new clothing materials, were developed. Trim and lace were now able to be placed on all dresses, corsets, and the like. Lavishness was in for half the cost. Not only was lace made both fast and furious by sewing machines, but dyes were developed that lasted and were inexpensive and stylish.

A good example of a corset that would have been produced back in the 1900's is the Atomic Victorian Tapestry Overbust Corset. This corset is pure vintage fashion. Check out the detail on this brightly dyed olive green overbust corset. The yellow satin ribbon trim along the bottom is vintage to match the mild floral tapestry design. As a bonus, the back laces up with matching yellow satin ribbon for tight lacing and closure. The front includes a steel busk seal. But wait, there's more! This specific corset also comes with a matching G-string; you sure didn't get those in the original Victorian era!

Victorian Jewelry

Just like the Victorian fashion, Victorian jewelry changed near the 1900's allowing accessibility of the jewelry to all, rather than just aristocrats and Queens. Jewelry specifically from the Romantic Period showed confidence, love, and allure. A piece of jewelry from the Romantic Period, specifically a royal blue and diamond necklace perhaps, would pair quite nicely with the Atomic Victorian Inspired Purple Overbust Corset.

This overbust corset is a real looker. Its long length sits at the lower hips allowing for the look of a long torso and corset training. The bodice is elegant with a hook and eye closure in the front and in good vintage fashion, a matching blue satin ribbon that has tight lacing up the back. This overbust corset is 30% cotton and 40% spandex. You will be the talk of the evening in this everyday but elegant outfit.

Victorian Hair

Just like both fashion and jewelry, Victorian hairstyles were considered an imperative part of a women's appearance. A woman's hair was usually worn up, embellished with feathers, jewels, or other Victorian fashion items. Her hair would be curled with tendrils framing her face. A perfect matching corset for this type of Victorian hairstyle would be the Atomic Beige Victorian Inspired Brocade Overbust Corset.

 

The femininity of this cream colored corset just oozes innocence. The contrast between the white floral lace trim and black busk front closure gives it a feeling of virgin promiscuity. This would be perfect wedding lingerie for that woman with the innocent look and not so innocent actions!

Victorian Literature

Victorian literature involves a variety of works written from 1837-1901. The majority of the writing focuses on the struggles of the working class, and especially any victory or achievement gained. Some of the work included in that timeframe are Bronte's "Jane Eyre" & "Wuthering Heights". Just imagine reading one of those classic books while wearing the Atomic After Five Ruffles and Lace Overbust Corset.

This light copper colored overbust corset would put your typical librarian to shame. With its white and yellow ruffle trim on both the top and bottom edge, as well as the white lace adornment over the bust area that is carried around to the back, who wouldn't want to be caught reading in the library?! This corset also includes a front busk closure and tight lacing up the back in a beautiful and brilliant bright white satin ribbon. This specific corset could also be used in Victorian Steampunk fashions with the right accessories added as it has that light copper colored bodice that is classic to the steampunk look.

Victorian Hats

Hats were worn by women in the Victorian period from the 1830's to the 1900's. Hats made the fashion back in the day and were a must-have accessory to a women's dress or corset. Bonnets were adorned with flowers, feathers, jewels, and ribbons. If you are having a difficult time visualizing the type of hats from the period, think Downton Abbey! 

Any of the Atomic corsets could be worn with a bonnet, but the Atomic Victorian Tapestry Overbust Corset and the Atomic Beige Victorian Inspired Brocade Overbust Corset would pair the best with the hats of the Victorian era.

Victorian Shoes

Footwear in the Victorian period had a simple but classic look. Usually, boots were worn under dresses or skirts and were mid-calf in height. With a line of black buttons, a stiletto heel, and other adornments, Victorian era shoes were badass!

The Atomic Nora-Blu Pinstripe Bustier Corset would be the perfect fit for the boots mentioned above. The formal pinstripes yet flirty black ruffle, send mixed signals to your admirer. Add in rhinestone buckle accents, adjustable over-the-shoulder straps, and a matching thong and you have a night you'll never forget!

Victorian Architecture

The Victorian style of architecture is from the period of 1830-1910. It was a highly influential style with elaborate trim and beautiful colors. The Victorian era wanted architecture, furnishings, and fashion to have an air of beauty over practicality. The type of corset most reminiscent of Victorian architecture is the Atomic Vintage Blue & Gold Brocade Underbust corset.

This Victorian inspired underbust corset has a brocade fabric in the royal colors of gold and navy blue. Not only does it have a front busk closure, but it also has durable tight lacing in the back and comes with a matching G-string. How daring! This corset can be worn with or without a tank top as it is an underbust corset, again, how daring!

Victorian Cosmetics

Women of the Victorian era indeed wore make-up. Women in this period used rice powder, zinc oxide, or pearl powder as a foundation. As a lipstick, they would use a clear beeswax for protection against the sun and wind as well as for a light shine. For color on their lips, they would use finely ground flowers. For blush on the cheeks, they would apply beet juice massaged into the cheeks. A corset that would fit this style of cosmetics today would be the Atomic Victorian Black Satin Overbust Long Bone Corset.

This black corset oozes class and elegance and would match any make-up style perfectly. This satin polyester fabric corset can be worn with either a pair of jeans or a skirt. It has a front stainless steel busk closure and a ten grommet lace up back with black ribbon lacing. As an added bonus, this corset comes with a matching G-string.

Victorian Décor

Victorian décor mainly consisted of where you lived. If you were a resident of the countryside, your focus was more of a garden variety. Those who lived in a city enjoyed more elite decorations including items that were inspired by balls, theaters, and parties. Any of the Atomic corsets could be worn in the style of the Victorian residence that influences you.

Victorian Art

Victorian art changed the way the world saw art. Instead of idealizing the events that were painted, usually military and noble figures, they changed the way they painted art to reflect accuracy and reality, rather than nobility. They wanted their audience to learn a moral lesson and felt it was the job of the artist to depict this lesson.

Any of the Atomic corsets could be worn during this Victorian art period, but the Atomic After Five Ruffles and Lace Overbust Corset and Atomic Beige Victorian Inspired Brocade Overbust Corset would pair the best with the art of the Victorian era.

There you have it! All you ever wanted to know regarding the Victorian era. Now that you are aware of the ten Victorian fashion corsets for daily wear, make sure you sport your Victorian style corset from Atomic Jane! As always contact us support@atomicjaneclothing.com to get any of your questions answered. 

8 Corsets for Looking Gorgeous and Feeling Sexy

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This post is for all of our Gorgeous Atomic Diva's out there. 

I know what you want. You want to leave your house looking gorgeous and feeling sexy. You want the curves of Marilyn Monroe and Betty Davis eyes. Do you know the kind of woman I'm talking about?

The kind of woman that commands a room when she steps in. A woman that makes that tall, dark, and handsome stranger thank God he's a man. Well girl, I have got just the corsets in mind to make it happen for you. 

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite outfit - because today's post has some of our best head-turning pieces. 

Gothic Fashion & Victorian Fashion

We are starting our list off strong, with a delicate and unique Gothic corset. This overbust corset is delicate, romantic, and feminine. Envision yourself as the ultimate Gothic princess while wearing this one with your favorite jeans, black skinnies, or pencil skirt. 

The satin pleats, the bows, the lace - it's almost too perfect.  Puffy cap sleeves finish the look off, making this piece a touch Victorian fashion, too. The back laces up beautifully with a ribbon and zipper closure. 

Tim Burton Character Style Corset

Can you say, sizzle? OMG this corset is so sexy. That isn't even the best part. It's versatile. It's a goth corset. It's a Victorian corset. 

It's easy to picture this corset featured on one of Tim Burton's leading ladies. His favorite muse, the lovely Miss Helena Bonham Carter would totally rock this bad boy on the Red Carpet. You can take a peek at some of her corset love over at this post

The jacquard print fabric offers compliment to the antique front buttons. The back laces up with heavy cord lacing  and it comes with steel bones.  You know what that means? This Gothic corset is available for tight lacing.

You might feel this one is a bit too risky for the office, so throw on a blazer or a cardigan over it to downplay the sexiness. Accessorize to your hearts delight with this piece, ladies. The monochromatic nature of the overbust corset makes this the perfect piece for busting out that statement necklace you have been looking for an excuse to wear. 

White Overbust Corset 

Our last two feature corset's took a walk on the dark side. Here's one that brightens things up a bit. 

The wide shoulder straps will give you a bit of extra support. This is huge for ladies who are afraid to go strapless because of a larger bust area. The delicate ribbon lace-up front and back makes this piece a classic corset top. 

The old saying, that black makes you appear slimmer is false. I know. We've been lied to. The truth is a well fitting piece of clothing, like this corset top will make you appear much more slender than any ill fitting or not nearly as sexy dark colored outfit ever will. Keep that in mind while admiring this beauty. 

 

Underbust Corsets 

Underbust corsets can be worn over or under clothes. These next few we will be talking about wearing over clothing to create a new look to an old favorite. The tank top.

We've all got them. Under our favorite shirt or by layered by themselves worn with jeans; the tank is an essential. Now, what if I were to tell you this staple piece of clothing could go from laid back to sexy in the time it took to fasten a few hooks and tie some ribbon?Sounds pretty good, right?

Take this Black And White Stripe Halter Underbust Corset. This can be worn over anything. A T. A blouse. What the model shows- over a tank, is the perfect fast outfit change. She went from low key to; OMG, like, whoa!  The halter gives you support and ensures this baby isn't going anywhere. 

The SteamPunk Underbust Corset

Remember when I said you "could" wear an underbust, under your clothes? This piece is a great example that you would not want to do that with. The fantastic buckles and chain accent would snag against your outer layer and even worse; they would be hidden!

Don't make the corset sad like that. Instead let your inner SteamPunk princess out with this SteamPunk Corset. 

Because this corset is steel boned, go ahead and cinch your waist to your hearts delight. The double zipper front closure and faux leather panels will help keep your tummy area nice and smooth while you flaunt that teeny-tiny waist. It's a win-win. 

Honestly, go crazy with the creativity of this underbust corset. Pair with jeans for a western SteamPunk feel. Go with a flowy skirt for a victorian fashion Steampunk look. 

Waist Trainers 

Hollywood is obsessed with waist trainers. Heck, I'm obsessed with waist trainers. They are a bit different than the underbust corsets we talked about above. Let us examine. 

You know Kim Kardashian's waist trainer? The one she uses over her clothes at the gym and under her clothes pretty much everywhere else? Ok. Well that type of trainer is the style below. In fact, if you check her pics, this one matches hers to a T. (Or a "K")

This is a latex waist trainer. It has steel bones and fastens in the front. It's also referred to as a vest waist trainer because of the underbust style. 

If you are looking to lose weight, train your waist, or melt off those extra inches while you workout like Kim K does, this is your new BFF.

 

Foundation Waist Trainer

At the beginning of this post I told you I had chosen corsets to help you look good and feel sexy. With a piece like this underbust waist trainer, you can achieve a smaller appearing waist under any outfit you already own. 

It can be a huge boost to your confidence to have a foundational piece like this underbust corset in your closet. Any dress or shirt can be layered on top and by the very nature of the corset - you will not be able to detect you are wearing it underneath. 

This black underbust corset features steel bones and 3 levels of adjusments via the front eyehooks. This means the corsets can grow smaller (or bigger, after that extra piece of pie) with you. 

The LongLine Waist Training Corset 

Whenever I see this lovely long line waist training corset, I am immediately transported to Kate Winset's character of Rose in Titanic. I adore the Victorian fashion influence this simple and elegant piece presents. 

This piece can literally perform, any of the functions previously mentioned in the post to this point. You may choose to wear this piece as a corset top. It can be worn over pants with the bottom tucked in, or over a skirt with the bottom over the top - and create a gorgeous silhouette.

This steel boned corset is also a waist trainer. It has 26 spiral steel bones that draw the waist in, allow for tight lacing and keep the tummy flat.  If using for waist training it should be worn under your outfit. Although, you may choose to wear a light T or camisole underneath for comfort. 

 

Spring Festival Wear

We got through all those fabulous corsets! Did you choose your favorite?

Now, because spring is just around the corner - peeking her head out slowly, as a bonus - I choose a few pieces to help you out with your first festival of the year. 

 

 

First up, the Bell Raiser Paisley Print Red Dress. It's long sleeves are bell shaped. So hippy - so Coachella. Don't forget to peep the crochet at the bottoms. Best worn while swaying on the grass and laughing with friends.  

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If you think you might be in for a long day of walking - opt for this flowing fringe tank. Great length for extra coverage and loose enough to be layered for a different look. Bangles and flower crown accessories encouraged. 

We hope you already know how beautiful and sexy of a woman you are. Having the extra help of a killer outfit and the waist cinching a corset has to offer can only add icing to the cake. Go ahead and imagine yourself in your favorite and don't be shy about reaching out to us for help with choosing the best size for you. Send your question to support@atomicjaneclothing.com 

Don't forge to follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/atomicjaneclothing/

 

 

Steampunk Books – Reading Recommendations and Your Guide to the Genre

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Today we'll be diving straight into the ever growing eclectic and enticing genre of Steampunk literature. So grab your finest reading monocle and get ready to discover your new favorite Steampunk book.

Mini Steampunk Overview

In case you're unfamiliar with Steampunk, here are a few basics.  You can read  a more in-depth history of Steampunk here in this blog post. 

Steampunk is a retro-futuristic style of art, clothing, and as we are talking about today, literature. The style includes Victorian, fantasy, the Industrial Revolution, and often a futuristic Wild Wild West.

You know how Star Wars is kind of like, the Cowboy and Indian days of the future on a planet with super-technology? Ok. Now, hold on to that thought and imagine our own history, but with super-technology involved.

Pretty cool, right?

The Steampunk Book Genre

The genre is active and rapidly growing. A quick search on Amazon Kindle available titles launches over 700 titles in the Steampunk genre. That’s a pretty penny's worth of metal gears and top hats!

If you're looking to check out some passionate, period-set adventure stories, start with Kindle eBooks.

If you have Prime subscription most of the books are free. Also, most of these self-published books can be snatched up for $3.00 and under.

Although, we acknowledge that most authentic steamers would probably prefer a leather bound, hand-written novel and might quietly protest the digital format.

However, an electronic reading device is the perfect element in the technology, futuristic part of this unique genre.

Must Read List Featuring Amazing Steam Heroines

Here’s a list of reading material to scratch your steaming itch for a good read.

  1. The Girl in the Steel Corset

Come on now, you know I was going to love this one! The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross (Kathryn Smiths pseudonym) is the first book in a YA series The Steampunk Chronicles.

Don’t let the YA label be a turn-off. After all, Harry Potter is technically a children’s book. YA brought us Twilight, The Hunger Games, and by way of proxy, 50 Shades of Gray.

In Cross’s story, Finely Jayne, the lead protagonist is a certified badass. She’s totally empowered, not afraid to fight the bad guys, and brilliant.

Make sure you buy the copy with the prequel novella introducing you to Finely so you don’t miss a thing.

  1. Boneshaker

Cherie Priest brings Briar Wilkes alive in the adventure loving novel, Boneshaker. Part of The Clockwork Century series, Boneshaker is full of mysteries, airships, Steampunk elements…oh, and zombies.

Yes! I said, zombies. Cherie, how could you know to hit every sweet spot in one short book? Briar wandering through a post-apocalyptic Seattle in the 1800’s will leave you delighted and sometimes terrified. But, in a really good way. I promise.

  1. The Clockwork Scarab: A Stoker & Holmes Novel

By now you may have noticed, the word, “Clockwork” is popular in Steam Literature. Don’t let that dissuade you from trying out Colleen Gleason’s heck of a ride Steampunk story.

Ok. Are you ready for the juicy details? Get this. The sister of Bram Stroker, Evaline, and the niece of Sherlock Holmes, Mina, team up to solve mysteries and hunt vampires!

I cannot tell you how much I loved this book. It’s Steam. It’s Victorian. It’s 1889 in London and it’s fabulous.  You will thank me for this one.

Honorable Steam Mentions

Frankenstein

Mary Shelley wasn’t messing around when it came to churning out a seriously, scary story. That woman was like, “Oh, you want nightmares? I got you.“

While Frankenstein might not immediately strike you as a Steampunk book, let’s examine the facts: the book is science fiction and by default, it takes place in Victorian times. Sounds Steampunk inspired to me.

Leviathan (The Leviathan Trilogy)

Leviathan is one of the most beloved books in the Steampunk genre.  History buffs will get a kick out of Scott Westerfeld’s reimagining of World War I in an alternate historical universe. There’s a bit of actual history, such as the basics of how WWI actually started.

Strong female character lovers will delight in the character of Deryn, who's only 15 and impersonating a boy named Dylan, to sneak her way up on to the British Air Service war machine, aptly named, the Leviathan.

Popular Classics

League of Extraordinary Gentlemen

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen has the distinction of making our list yet not being a “book.” This comic book series is written by Alan Moore and illustrated in intricate detail, by Kevin O’Neill.

This story is told over 12 comics, split into 2 series, a graphic novel, and a spin-off trilogy. The series uniquely incorporates many other works of fiction within the world of “League”.

League is set in Victorian England, with characters such as Captain Nemo, Fu Manchu, Dr. Jekyll, The Invisible Man and Sherlock Holmes arch nemesis.

They encounter the events of Wells’s, The War of the Worlds, and Nineteen Eighty Four, among other popular steam genre references.

The Golden Compass

The Golden Compass has been described as a children’s book that can only be appreciated by the adult reader. Philpp Pulman’s masterpiece is considered to be a modern fantasy classic, and a favorite Steampunk book.  

The story features in no particular order: magic, science, theology, fantasy, and a polar bear that wears metal armor. That’s one serious punk polar bear!

Fascinating Books with Fascinating Authors

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Again, here we have a case of steam genre-by-default. This classic horror story is set in England which, of course, is a common almost expected backdrop for the Steampunk genre.

For me, I think an interesting fun fact is about Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of Jekyll and Hyde. Here we have a man who wrote the loveable classic, Treasure Island

then, afterward goes on the write this classic tale going deep into the human psyche. A real juxtaposition, but alright Robert, whatever floats your Steampunk boat.

The Time Machine

H.G. Wells. What is there to say about this writer? Can you even imagine what it must have been like to hang out with him?

Not only did he give us The Time Machine, a classic Steampunk novel with time travel, which made for a beautifully dark, futuristic masterpiece. But he didn't stop there. He also gave us several other fantastic pieces of writing such as The Invisible Man, The War of the Worlds, and The Island of Doctor Moreau.

Herbert George, penned H. G. Wells, certainly had a penchant for crafting an enchanting tale. In The Time Machine, during a traditional English dinner party, a group of proper gentlemen are introduced to the idea of “the fourth dimension." I don’t think I’m giving anything away here by letting you know there will be some traveling in time by the books end.  

This book is sci-fi tested, steam lover approved. As a plus, you get to tell people you’re currently reading some H.G. Wells at your next cocktail party.

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea

Are you ready to kick it old school, as in 1869 school? That was the date this classic was first published and it’s been a favorite among the super science fiction loving crowd ever since.

Jules Verne is hailed as a visionary for predicting futuristic technologies, such as a suit that would allow you to dive undersea, an electric motor, and major warships.

The book is articulate, science heavy, and written in true Victorian fashion.

Whew! What a post. Did you find your next Kindle read? Don't forget, most of these books, especially the classics, are available as an audio book so go ahead. Indulge yourself in the world of googles. Time travel through dark and dreary London and lose yourself in these fantastic Steampunk stories.

If you find something you love, or if I mentioned your favorite Steampunk fantasy, please let me know in the comments.

Happy Reading!