Dark Garden This Hayes Valley boutique in the heart of San Francisco is tucked in an alley off the main shopping strip. I brought my sister in here over the weekend since she is performing a burlesque-type theater piece. Within 5 minutes the super-friendly staff had us both trying on a waist cincher type corset over our jeans and t-shirts. What was surprising to me was how comfortable they were. In fact, my back felt better and more supported that it has in some time.
Dark Garden has a variety of ready-to-wear corsets to choose from. Or, you can have one of these styles made in the fabric of your choice in 6-8 weeks. They also offer custom corsets where they measure and fit a corset exactly your body. Dita Von Teese has had some of her corsets designed here as well as Christina Aguilera.
Although I did not go in with the intention to buy one for myself, I could not resist purchasing a bright green and blue brocade waist cincher style corset (similar to this ivory one shown at the right from corsetdiva on Etsy).
I plan to wear mine over blouses and dresses as shown in these photos--more like a wide belt or cumberbun. I also think it would be great paired with a kimono style blouse or dress--more like an obi.Dark Garden's corsets are true works of art and definitely too beautiful (and pricey) not to wear as often as possible.
Corset BeltSlightly less confining than a full steel-boned corset, this leather corset belt ($250) is equally dramatic. It still advertises the same waist reducing properties from the back lacing as the corsets above.
I've actually been looking for a wide leather corset belt for some time without success. So, was happy to see this one while browsing on Etsy. Available from kvodesign's shop on Etsy.
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