I've looked in my vintage magazines and catalogues, and my guess is that this is from the 1930s or 40s. I really need an expert to guide me in the right direction, as I'm corset-illiterate!:( <img src=http://members.sparedollar.com/fuzzylizzie/spencer.jpg> <img src=http://members.sparedollar.com/fuzzylizzie/spencer1.jpg> <img src=http://members.sparedollar.com/fuzzylizzie/spencer3.jpg> <img src=http://members.sparedollar.com/fuzzylizzie/spencer5.jpg> Thanks! Lizzie
I seem to remember Spencer corset ads in my '30s magazines. I'll take another look and see if I can find any illustrations for you. You mentioned a corset expert, and my first thought was Lei! Laura
I had several ones (old store stock) very similar, although I can't remember the maker. I (being corset illiterate myself) ran those by the woman who has Lace Embrace Atelier in Vancouver, BC, and she told me 40s. There are some differences though, mine were pink jacquard fabric and were long all the way around. Yours actually looks a good deal more comfortable!
My best bud Melanie runs Lace Embrace! Did you see her at the vintage show recently? Lizzie, your corset is a summer corset as it's made out of mesh. The date could be anywhere from the 30's to the early 60's as this style of style of corset with the adjusting straps at the sides were made continuously (actually, they still make them with those straps but your one isn't modern). Spencer still exists too. The shape reminds me of 30's and 40's though. I'd say "mid 20th century" as a guide date, sorry I couldn't be more specific but early corsets are my thing Lei
Lei, I don't know your buddy Melanie personally, but golly she was really nice and helpful to me when I emailed her with lots of photos of corsets. I even *blush* bought one of her ready-made ones and it is of such a fine quality...I LOVE it! She's even got my gushing testimonial on her site (along with lots of other gushing testimonials!).
I have seen Melanie's hand made corsets as well and they are stunning. You honestly can not tell the difference between the original Victorian one and her copy.
