A beautifully made leather corset can be very attractive and inspire much attention. Choosing one that fits properly is very important since one that is not comfortable can cause some pain and will vanish to the back of the closet, never to be seen again. One common mistake that is often made by customers buying a new one is that the difference the lacing will make to measurements since it will be tighter than they expect.

One of the construction elements to check for is the kind of boning used to create the shape. Plastic boning tape, often found in most fabric stores, is not designed for the sheer amount of wear and tear that steel boning can take. Flat steel, or sprung boning will keep it's shape much more easily. Some corsets have a heavy duty busk at the front opening, with steel hooks and eyes in it, whereas others will have heavy duty zips.

Single layer bodices may not have enough strength to hold their shape and may stretch. Fabric is something else that should be taken into account when choosing a garment. The best fabrics are coutil and canvas since they are strong. Coutil is, in fact, specially made for corsets. PVC and Rubber do not use much boning since they are stretchy enough by themselves. Leather is useful in that it is quite strong and will be able to be laced tightly in order to maintain the distinctive outline.

Measuring properly is terribly important. Keep the tape flat and at the right point on the body. Ones bra size is not the proper measurement for the bust. This should be taken at the fullest part of the breast line. Although more recently, pants and jeans have been worn lower on the hips, this is not where the proper waistline is found. That measurement should be taken at the belly button. Once they have been noted, take a couple of inches off the whole. This will take into account the difference the lacing will make.

Putting the corset on the first time is a bit of a revelation. It should not do up completely, since if it does so before being laced, it is too big and will not adequately hold you in place. There should be a four in difference between the edges of the back opening, at least, once the front is done up. Lacing properly is also a bit of a trick. Pull firmly outwards instead of upwards. The item will not shift around the body and be uncomfortable.

As the nightclub scene has become more open to different influences, corsets have become quite usual as a fashion item. A result of this is that there are many versions available, ranging in price from quite inexpensive upwards. Ensuring that the correct measurements have been noted, will save money in the long run.

Within some more underground cultures of the nightclub scene, such as the BDSM world, the fit of a corset can give many clues to where in the hierarchy a woman may rank. One wearing a form fitting over the bust corset may well be a Mistress, since it protects her breasts, whereas an underbust cut will most likely be worn by a submissive, exposing her vulnerable breasts to view.

Corsets are versatile garments to have as an accessory in the wardrobe. Worn over a smart blouse and skirt one can be very chic. Steampunk afficionados may add a Victorian skirt and heavy boots to complete their ensemble. All in all, a leather corset is a good multipurpose item to have.