This set of stays is an important link between the 18th Century style of fully boned stays and the early 19th C corset with cording and gussets. These stays have the back styling of the typical 18th c with a long center back that reaches from the shoulder blade to below the waist. It curves to fit at the waist but with no tabs and extends beyond the waist at center front. At the top, from the high point at the shoulder blades, it gently dips under the armscye and then goes straight under the bust with front lacing closure. The bosom is pushed up and supported by a boned center front and bones along the seams of the stay.
FIT NOTES:
The very high period waist is higher than what a woman in the 21st century would wear and cannot be easily achieved without some form of corsetry. This set of stays would have been worn over a shift and fits high underneath the bust pushing it up higher to fit above the period waistline. It is comfortable to wear and move in. There are additional notes on how to adapt the pattern for the larger busted woman.
Check the measurement charts for sizing. Patterns are printed on 20lb weight paper, with multiple sizes each uniquely color-coded on the pattern. Includes documentation, photographs, drawings, and sewing instructions focusing on period construction methods, but can be sewn using modern sewing machine methods. The person who buys any one of these patterns can be confident that the pattern shapes are period correct which allows the individual the option to be as period correct in sewing techniques and construction as he or she wishes to be.
