Regency Stays
Posted by Mary Price on June 16, 1998 at 12:12:49:
In response to Wearing of corsets, written by Sue on June 14, 1998 at 10:30:13
Sue.
There does seem to be debate whether stays were in general use during
the Regency. Perhaps HC is being a little harsh in his words ?
I am sure some Regency women did discard their stays. Women brought
up immediately before the Regency would have worn them from a very tender
age (poor little things) and would have regarded them as an essential part of dress
.( Remember the 1960s and the fuss about not wearing the mandatory bra ?)
After the Regency women took up stays again, so perhaps they never got used
not wearing them ?
As for Sue's questions - I am not a costume wearer so I cannot help.
I am sure that the fashionable late 19c woman was prepared to lace
tighter than we would accept today.
And of course, the posture of the 18 c and the 19 cent - all so upright. The
was more relaxed, but still erect by the standards of today.
As a passing comment to Sue. Don't forget the 1950/60s - the firm control
girdle could be substantial. Also, the 1920s - like the Regency, some went
corsetless. But look at the adverts of the time, they show as fashion items
garments which although not waisted are very solid.
To meet the requests of Sue and HC surely we have someone who has worn
Regency stays ?
love.....Mary
Posting followups to old messages is disabled; instead go to the main index and post a new message which mentions this one.
