Enchanted - Custom Corsets and Bridal Apparel

Q:  Why should I buy a corset from Enchanted?

A:  Most "custom" corsets offered online only ask for a handful of measurements - waist, hips, and bust seem to be the standard for corsets that run hundreds of dollars!  Enchanted takes into account details such as how far up or down you would like the corset to come in the front and back, and what kind of neckline you would like, and how far above the full bust that should come for YOUR figure.

Q:  Do I have to live in the Portland area?

A:  No!  With the advent of the age of technology and information, there are several ways that you can have your perfect garment created long distance!  It is most helpful if you have a Skype account, but we can also make it work via email, pictures, phone calls, and good old fashioned telephones.

Q:  Can you breathe in a corset?

A:  Yes!  Corsets have earned a rather...uncomfortable reputation, mostly due to the extremes that Victorian fashions attained.  However, the 15" waist was only achieved by corset training that began at puberty or younger.  Enchanted corsets usually take about 4" off your natural waistline - this lets you flaunt a lovely figure, and have fun doing it.  You might not want to attend a yoga class in your corset, but you can definately go and tear up the dance floor!

Q:  What is a mock-up?

A:  A mock-up is a "rough draft" of your corset, made out of muslin with temporary boning.  The purpose of the mock-up is to ensure that the corset has the proper height and length on your body - it is amazing how much of a difference this step makes in the fit of your corset!

Q:  What kind of boning do you use, and how many pieces?

A:  Enchanted uses only steel boning.  Flexible spiral boning (1/4" wide) is used through the body and on the sides of most corsets to allow for the curve that most of us are looking for.  Rigid flat boning (1/4" wide) is used on either side of the gromments, and 1/2" wide flat boning is used under the busk to make sure that your tummy stays FLAT.  The exception to these rules are for corset customers with a natural waist exceeding 42", in which case 1/2" boning is used throughout the corset.  In sum, at least 26 pieces of boning, in addition to the busk, are used in every Enchanted Corset.

Q:  Why are Enchanted corsets so expensive?

A:  Well, considering what you are getting, they really aren't.  Look through your closet and count the number of "corsets" you have bought over time, but don't wear because they have fallen apart, hurt, or really don't fit.  Multiply that by how much you spent on them, and you will quickly find that if you save your money, you could have a corset from Enchanted that will last for years, fit right, and be comfortable.

  Aside from that, Enchanted corsets cost so much because they are hand made by real people right here in America - no sweat shops, no assembly line, no mark-ups between seamstress and vendor; just a plain old-fashioned custom corset from the Enchanted sewing room to your eager hands.  Oh, and it takes about 20 hours to make one, not counting consultation and fittings.  You do the math:)

If you have any reservations, feel free to shop around.  You will quickly find that most custom corsetiers charge at least as much if not more, and may not even offer a mock-up.  Beware of corsets that only account for a few  measurements (waist, hips, underbust) - everyone has different lengths above, below, and between these measurements!  Also be aware that several companies start with a comparitively low price, but additional charges apply for what should be included (such as modesty panels, busk, "extra" boning, a mock-up, etc...).  By the time it all adds up, you may end up paying more than you would have had you stuck with Enchanted!  If you find someone that offers you your choice in fabric, a mock-up, and references for less...Rock on!

Q:  Can I pick my fabric?

A:  Of course!  You can also request 1/2" wide boning, other boning materials, or non-traditional closure methods.  As fabric varies widely in price, you are responsible for the cost of the outer (visible) fabric, and Enchanted covers the rest of the materials.  Standard black or ivory cotton laces are also provided: satin laces to match the corset are available at a nominal charge.

Q:  Will a corset help my back or improve my posture?

A:  A corset is not a medical device, and if you have a history of back or bowel problems, you should consult a physician before wearing one.  Well made corsets do provide significant structure and support around the torso area, which does improve posture in many cases.  Caution should be excercised when wearing a  corset: if at any time you experience pain in relation to wearing your corset, you should loosen or remove the corset to avoid damage to your skin, muscle, nerves, or internal organs.