The end of the 18th century saw major shifts in western women's fashion. After centuries of conical silhouettes, the body was allowed to curve and waistlines rose to just under the bust, and transitional stays were the "missing link" between earlier styles and the long line stays of the 1810s–1830s. Extant stays from this period vary widely in style and construction, as staymakers employed creative methods to adapt to this new fashionable shape.
With a lightly boned conical torso and soft bust gores, our 1790s transitional stays are the perfect foundation for fashions of the early Regency period. The longer line and wooden busk provide support, while the cups and drawstring at the center front allow for a more natural yet slightly lifted bust curve. This style is meant to end at precisely mid-bust to accommodate the wide, low necklines of the period. We highly recommend wearing these over a shift as pictured.
Details:
- Appropriate for 1790–1810
- Cotton sateen fashion fabric outer layer
- English cotton coutil and twill strength/lining layers
- Half-boned with steel boning
- Removable 12” wooden busk at the center front
- Center back spiral lacing with two-piece nickel grommets
- Alterable side seams and straps
Standard sizes end about 1.5" above the waist at the sides and back. Plus sizes (18–26) extend just slightly lower with a bit of hip curve for more support and to prevent digging, and they also include additional boning.
CUSTOM ORDER PROCESS: Please enter the following measurements in the notes at checkout (taken over a well-fitting modern bra): bra size, bust, underbust, waist, hip 7" below waist, underarm to waist, back of neck to waist.
Our stays are based closely on historical pattern shapes and extant examples, but utilize theatrical construction techniques and modern materials to bring you an accurate silhouette in a sturdy, comfortable garment. You can read more about our research and inspiration for our 1790s stays on our blog.
Detailed instructions for how to wear and maintain your corset can be found on our Wear & Care page, while general ordering information can be found in our FAQ section. We also have a video walking you through all our classic corset alteration points.
You can find our line of luxury corsetry made with customizable fabrics and details at Redthreaded Atelier, and you can also contact us to discuss other custom design ideas. For standard sizing in this style or other historical periods, please see our Classic Corset range. If you want to make your own, we have individually sized paper patterns and kits as well as print-at-home digital patterns available.
Please see our Policies page for important information regarding payments, shipping, returns, and customs. International buyers are responsible for all VAT/customs fees. Under no circumstances will a shipment be marked as a "gift" or declared at a reduced value.
All Redthreaded corsets are handmade in our Colorado studio.