Nice 'n Tight? Of 'Corset' is!
From Scarlett to Rizzo, we all need a solid foundation

By Jada Stark

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting Vancouver corsetiere Melanie Talkington of Lace Embrace Atelier, who designs stunning foundation garments like corsets, bras, panties and garters. I went to her studio and, I’m tellin’ ya, it almost brought a tear to my eye to see so many beautiful pieces. Immediately, I wanted to custom order two of everything. Though dainty and delicate, her pieces are also incredibly strong. In fact, when wearing a corset the feeling is not so much that of the damsel-in-distress as of a woman in control. Maybe it has something to do with the good posture a corset gives, but they certainly can lend power to your persona.

Talkington began making corsets in 1997. Although she graduated from the four-year design program at Kwantlen, since they don’t really teach the old school art of corsetry and all of her patterns are based on the real thing, she is predominantly self-taught. Did I mention she also has the largest collection of antique corsets in North America ? Well, she does – and they’re gorgeous!!

The lovely little kewpie-doll-esque designer has always had a passion for the history of lingerie and corsetry, and it shows in every meticulous stitch and detail. Her ‘flossing’ is immaculate – that’s the beautiful embroidery-like stitching at the top and bottom of the corsets. It’s not only decorative, but also serves as a reinforcement to prevent the boning from eventually wearing through the fabric.

The designer works only in silk, cotton or leather (a buttery-soft lambskin). Besides her made-to-order pieces, Talkington has four basic styles available: the Cincher corset (under-bust, cinches in waist and is shorter in hips); the Edwardian (under-bust, gives tummy control and is longer in hips); the Victorian Over-bust (gives more coverage and can easily be worn as an outer garment).

Corsets aren’t just for coy Miss Scarletts, toughies like Rizzo or guests at Dr. Frank N. Furter’s place. They can be the main element of an ensemble, worn over something else like a dress, blouse, jeans or a skirt, or worn discreetly under modern everyday clothing to give a little curve (just don’t forget the importance of the slip in smoothing out lines). Even when Lace Embrace apparel isn’t apparent, the important thing is that you (and perhaps only a select few others) know you’re wearing it.

Lace Embrace Atelier “in stock” corsets run between$200 and $250 and can be found at either the Front at 3772 Main or by visiting www.laceembrace.com. Custom corsets, like the one Melanie made for burlesque star Dita Von Teese, take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks and start at around $400. Her panties are available at the Front and Bodacious (up to size 3X) at 4393 Main, and at Dianes Lingerie at 2950 Granville Street . They run from $38 to $45. Custom bras also available.