Unmentionables

Well, let's mention them anyway, shall we?

So far I have made/re-made and completed:

1 chemise (ball gown cut)
2 pairs of crotchless pantalettes (how else do you think we ladies could go to the bathroom?!?)
1 pintuck petticoat

Now I need to focus on:

decorating the corset
finishing up making the everyday-cut chemise, and perhaps make one more if I like it

After that I should have all the undergarments made except for those bought. I actually bought a custom-made cage crinoline from alliestrunk on eBay for $150. I figured it would be worth it considering it'll be shorter than the crappy modern bridal one I have now and it'll be stronger against the wind and not trip me when it flattens out in the wind. I decided I just can't afford to have my special day ruined just because I was too cheap to buy it, especially at that reasonable of a price. Also I think it'll be great to brag about during the family costume competition!

But, I can at least write this off in my mind as an investment, as I hope to join a reinactment group sometime, and go to period balls all around in Texas. It's something I can always use again and again, unlike modern bridal stuff. The only part of my whole outfit that really won't be worn again is the actual wedding gown - the rest is completely reusable, so I don't feel so guilty about splurging.

However, I've had trouble with shoes. I really, really, really was hoping to buy some white kid leather/imitation button-up boots, but none can be found except for an exhorbitant amount in the UK. Also can't really find any lace-up ones without being satin, as I know satin won't wear as well on the street as leather, and will get all dusty and nasty.

On the brighter side, I did find a pair of leather sturdy ballet flats with soft suede soles which I will use for dancing at my ball. They're only $30, so I can't argue with that. I plan on embellishing them with bridal appliques or lace or something pretty. Here's the link: http://www.dyeableshoestore.com/dyeable-shoe-store/shoes-by-width/ballet-180.asp

If I can't find any good boots, I think I'll have to have a stronger type of slipper, with a better sole for outdoors: http://www.bridalpeople.com/wedding-flats/13609.asp

I'm also thinking of investing in some luxurious white silk stockings. It's my wedding day, and I want to be as comfortable as possible. With Texas weather, you never know whether it'll be hot or cold - and silk takes care of both. Plus, the silk is so thin that it won't make my feet any wider than they already are, so my shoes will fit better. Here are some places I've found online - all are imports from France (something else I can brag about in the competition!)

about $50 US from Britain
http://www.delicates.co.uk/Champs-Elysees-Silk-Stockings-By-Cervin-2061524E0F.aspx

$55
http://stockingirl.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=miccina&Product_Code=SGSS2&Category_Code=catS&Product_Count=12

$59
http://www.stockingstore.com/genuine-silk-stockings-p/cv900.htm

Now that I compared them, I'm thinking of going with the $55 ones since it's in US dollars and shipping theoretically shouldn't kill me. I guess I'll have to wait on this one, though.

$60
http://stockingirl.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=STH101&Category_Code=CatT&Store_Code=miccina

Look Ma, No Bra!

I finally figured out how to fix my corset so that I don't have to wear a bra with it. It's definitely hard being a 34G, and support is my #1 priority. However, back in December, I was rushed because the corset kit took so long to ship, and I only had a week in which to make it. Now that I have a lot more free time this summer, I decided I had to tackle that project again and make sure it was done right and better (live and learn....right?)

I had to fold the four gussets into a kind of pleat so that they barely existed - and these were a size DD! (OK...I've never in my whole life had a bra/corset be too big!!!) So back then, I thought this would run small at worst. Ends up it was waaaaay too big. Not only that, but the spiral steel boning that came in the kit were 1. too flexible and 2. too long. I wasn't able to completely sew on the edging tape, which was part of the kit and of which I ran out in that week before Dickens!!! I ended up ordering some hard plastic boning from the same place, Laci's, and it worked out well for the most part after having measured each casing myself and giving a 1/4" clearance on each end for the edging tape.

Here are some pics, but they don't show the finished project. Last night when I tried everything on, my fiance and I came across a new problem: the busk wasn't strong enough. I don't have time to order a stronger one (if they even come in stronger) plus I don't have time to rip it all apart. It kept sticking out and not laying flat - a problem I've seen on Tudor gowns worn by busty ladies at TRF. Christian had the absolutely brilliant idea of using aluminum flat bar (1/8" thick, 1/2" wide, and 13 inches long) which we bought for like $3.50 at Lowe's. He cut the long bar into what I needed and quickly filed the pointy corners down. Works perfectly now. I don't think I've ever had such a period silouette before.

I'm thinking on covering up the hand-stitching on the wedging tape with some white double-sided lace, since the machine just couldn't catch it all the time and the ordeal became very frustrating. I think I'll have to use 3/4" - 1" wide tape instead of 1/2" wide. Still looks good though, and is EXTREMELY strong now. I loved wearing it this morning, because it just felt so supportive, especially in the back. I guess I'm one of those few women who can still smile and feel good while wearing a corset!