This Will Make Your Cosplays ✨Better✨ (spoiler it's like a corset but better)

[@moth.faerie]

The first 1,000 people to use the link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/minjalinjee11221

[@Siansonea]

I don't think of corsets as 'slimming' garments, but rather as 'smoothing' and supporting garments. I just would never wear them tight enough to do any real slimming, but I appreciate the way they just make everything look smoother and more tailored.

[@mystrangebones]

I love that description! I lace mine tighter than strictly necessary but for back support, not waist reduction.

[@Siansonea]

@@mystrangebones I do that too. Sometimes if my back is spasming, I lace it up tight to relieve the pain, and even though it's not super comfortable that way, it does relieve the spasming more reliably than anything else. This kind of makes me think that this is why corsets were ever a thing in the first place, because they relieve back pain if constructed and worn properly.

[@ayajade6683]

​@@Siansonea corsets were never uncomfortable we can trace that slander back to one man's ad campaign for bras. The reason the myth holds up is actresses wear unseasoned corsets or what to seem like they're suffering for art. If corsets were uncomfortable the working class women wouldn't have worn them. If a corset you buy is uncomfortable it's either not seasoned, fast fashion, the wrong size, or you're wearing it wrong

[@Crosshill]

this is definitely more parallel to a high society event where you wanna be extra dazzling for just a couple hours

[@LadyDragonbane]

You hit the nail on the head there, Siansonea! That's exactly what they are

[@InThisEssayIWill...]

I really appreciate and enjoy your "deconstructing cosplay" content.. it's so easy to feel defeated when you see some of these massively intricate costumes. As someone whose spare time is both precious and limited the idea of pouring so much into a costume I'll only wear occasionally it's hard to justify.. little tricks like this really help it make sense. I also fluctuate a lot monthly(as do most of the women I know) and I so deeply appreciate you highlighting that fact. 11/10, you've got a fan for life here.

[@armedvsokord]

This is a well written comment that sums up my thoughts too

[@sweb23879]

It's wild how much it changes the shape of the final garment! I'm definitely interested in seeing a drafting video, I feel like I would actually make one of these. Thanks, this was super interesting!

[@laudiewhite]

Totally agree! I would love to see how you draft one of these!

[@IRwuzzle]

I can't believe how much waist reduction one can get without lacing in!

[@Kathywake23]

Pro tip: wear the tights over the corset. We used to do this in ballet for quick changes and it helps. It will also help with the hip transition a bit. I know you mentioned the tights help the corset stay up, but nothing is worse than peeing in your beautiful costumes.

[@moth.faerie]

The tights under the corset body are important for keeping tension on the corset body vertically

[@Kathywake23]

@@moth.faerie Hi Minji, I don't really understand what you mean by tension under the corset body. Would you mind clarifying for me?

[@missnikin]

@@moth.faerie what about crotchless tights under and dance tights over? 🤔

[@missnikin]

@@Kathywake23 she said that she puts her corset waist slightly below her actual waist so I'd imagine that without the tights under to provide friction, the whole unit would start to creep up and give the strongest wedgie possible

[@princessjello]

@@missnikin i think you can use garters to help keep it from rolling up?

[@lyndabethcave3835]

I am shocked that after three years of fashion school with a focus in costuming AND working in the costume industry for a few years, I only heard about corset bodies last month, from one of your videos. They're such a useful thing!

[@Iffygeneia]

Thank you for being honest about the benefits but also the drawbacks of using a corset body in a costume. It makes you look super pretty, but the bathroom thing would be an issue for me personally 😅

[@emilysmith2784]

Same. Knowing I couldn’t pee would just make me want to pee more 😂

[@tinkersintheworkshop4439]

You can split the crotch on the tights and apply snaps to the crotch closure on the bodies. Would love a company to make split crotch dance style tights though, certainly less of a hassle trying to make it work yourself. (Edited typo)

[@dittoroxursox1o1]

In addition to the snaps on the crotch there could also be a double sided zipper or butt flap application (like in old timey long johns from cartoons) that could also make the bottom of this more accessible. Or even a way to reliably make it work as a corset alone with some outfits. (maybe a jock strap style bottom instead so you have the tension but it is easier to undo?) Sewing is all about being hyper specific and creative.

[@marandadavis9412]

Honestly the only time I really have had a problem with going to the bathroom in a corset was when I wore pants. Then again, my current corsets don't come down over my hips like a body suit and I wear low rise undies.

[@maskedfoxx7173]

I love the way corsets shape the body. I'm not concerned with looking thinner at all but the way corsets can prevent that boxy look and add a ton of support to a costume is wonderful.

[@Candlehearts]

Its so validating to hear you say your cosplay limit is 3 hours max 🤣 SAME The corset body looks so nice! I'll definitely be making one for myself!

[@squeece]

Wow, love this. And thank you so so much for stressing that you don’t need to conform to a specific body size or shape to be a “good” cosplayer, and that you don’t even need to *be* a “good cosplayer” to do it and have fun. I’ve always wanted to get into cosplay but I’ve always been nervous about it because I don’t have the “right” body type for the characters I want to make - even though I know in my head that cosplay is for everyone and the point isn’t to look exactly like the character. I guess it just hits different hearing someone else say it though. So thank you for that.

[@luciadangelo1009]

I had never heard of “corset body” either; we just called them corsets. My first ones were vintage from Hollywood costume house sales. Love them!

[@madzikdek]

Wow I'm in love ❤️ can't wait for the "how to construct it" video... Tho tbh I just love pattern drafting and your fitting tips are always extremely helpful

[@AlexaFaie]

I've been into corsets for enough years now that I know how useful they are for getting the correct silhouette, but I still love seeing how much of a difference they make to the look of an outfit. Really enjoyed the before and after for each of your outfits.

[@avivagodfrey]

This makes me want to see you do a Jessica Rabbit cosplay. XDD Like a film noir style Jessica Rabbit, all black and white?? Absolutely looking forward to the drafting video.

[@estherlee8213]

Yes! Please talk about how you made the chibi moon costume!! I've drooled over it on your IG - definitely would love a closer look :)

[@spoiledvamp27]

Oh man that flipper bone tip seems SO USEFUL! I use corsets under most of my cosplays for the back support and weight distribution for my heavier ballgowns, but I'm often fiddling with the neckline to make sure the corset doesn't show. I'm gonna try that immediately to see what a difference it makes.

[@PaigeAndJules]

for those looking for a more long-term wear option, you could try a double zipper along with snap closures at the bottom, that way you could unzip from the bottom of the back to take the tights on and off more easily

[@wintrygarden]

This is so helpful! I can't wait to see the drafting process. I've tried drafting a bunnysuit before but really struggled with it, so I'm sure your tips will be very helpful (as always!) And LOVE getting to see your Wicked Lady in motion. You did such a great job with it.

[@catlaw5803]

I love your work! Also, thank you for mentioning Aranea Black. She deserves so much more love than the internet gives her. I've never seen anyone give such informative video step-by-step instructions along with free patterns. You are such a lovely, creative, and skilled creator. I'm so glad I found you!

[@blaireshoe8738]

I never considered that a support garment would be able to alter where my waist appears to be... as someone with a particularly short torso, this is verrrrry interesting 😂

[@waterbitten]

The corset body is amazing, I will never get over how snatched your waist looks because of your hip spring. Beautiful

[@silverrraven5349]

just a semi-related reminder for anyone who needs it: throughout history, corsets are shaping garments, not slimming garments. silhouettes are all about the ratios- if you can't cinch the waist any further, you can pad the bust and hips. besides, the squish at your waist has to go up or down anyway

[@morgantornetta8599]

That final costume is such a work of art! Thanks for making sure to caveat that the goal of the corset body isn't to make your body smaller! Just as a funny anecdote: I have a cat who looks just like Baby Bat and he was very attentively watching this video.

[@alexandradoraharkai6023]

Hopefully you see this Minji, your instagram account in the description is not available. This video really shows just how much logistics goes into costumes that I wasn't aware of before! And as you said, celebrity outfits too. All the practical details were super interesting to see.

[@moth.faerie]

Fixed, thank you!

[@HeyLizardLeigh]

This was super interesting to watch! I totally agree with you, I always always prefer designing any fitted costumes with hella support/structural garments- bodies fluctuate, and it eliminates SO much stressful uncertainty to draft over a more fixed and structured silhouette!

[@darciehagan4337]

I'm sure I'm not alone, but will say that the sound and pacing of all your videos is the equally the reason I come back all the time with your content and insights! What kind of ruler are you using? It looks SUPER flexible!

[@katierose6424]

This is sooo interesting to see a common modern use of corsets!! I have a dress that has what you described in the Dior dresses - definitely prevents a lot of straining on the zipper!

[@virulence]

Have you considered removing the mesh from the second dress and remaking that part as a shirt you could tuck into the corset? You could also have the sleeves be separate and held up with the silicone they use for stay-up thigh high stockings!

[@noam3561]

the white shirt with the corset body on top looks just like an outfit jenna ortega wore in a lot of wednesday promo, fun coincidence

[@justme-qd6qb]

wow but the shape it creates looks so dramatic :o

[@AsheCat]

The things you never think of but make a huge impact on your cosplays. My mind has been blown by the flipper bone. Gonna have to add this to list of things to sew!

[@kathrynmarentette7120]

That zipper installment method absolutely blew my mind. You just solved all of the zipper installment struggles I’ve been having for YEARS!!

[@claudiaaugusta8453]

That was really cool, thanks for the insight. Understructure really makes such a difference. I only ever saw the concept of flipper bones on your channel, what a useful concept!

[@ushere5791]

min, this corset body is breathtaking on you!! grace company crafts on etsy (from ukraine) made me a zip-front corset to measure. we put in a sturdy industrial zipper that takes a moment to ease into, but it's faster than lacing, and omg, it's like wearing a lovely hug. really comfortable! and it does wonders for the silhouette!

[@nobodyishere00000]

great advice, people rarely consider the form and support of corsets mainly because there's so much mainstream media on how it's supposedly suffocates you to make your waist look smaller which is a great exaggeration and just not true in modern times.

[@anastasiiaportnova3382]

Hi Minji! Thank you very much for your video. I was recently looking into dior corselets and I was searching for a more effective way to shape the body without having to sew all the structure into every dress. As for the toilet breaks issue, will it help to have a double sided zipper (like on some longer coats there are zippers with two sliders and this way, the zipper can be zipped up and then unzipped from the bottom up) as well as the snap closures? It seems like that would give you a way to open up the corset body from your bottom up to the waist to then be able to pull the tights high up again)

[@whickwhacksmacker]

The camp half blood shirt yes!!!!! The nostalgia!!!!

[@sabrinabell3624]

I love the camp half-blood shirt

[@kimberlybullock3299]

I’m new to your channel but seeing your thumbnail made me think you could really pull off Xena, warrior princess!

[@MoneyPennyMakes]

I would love to see the patterning side of this as it’s something I have wanted to make for a while and you explain things so well!

[@SewlockHolmes]

Thanks so much for sharing! I've been a bit confused about flipper bones for a while but it finally makes sense! Been trying to find the time to make myself a corset for a while (although a corset body would be cool too) so I'll definitely refer back to this when the time comes!

[@johannageisel5390]

Wow, that sparkly outfit is breathtaking! I love it so much! The little fairy dress thingy also looks very cute.

[@CaillouPillar]

idk if anyone's mentioned it but wearing the tights over the corset body and also adding the crotch closures would help with the bathroom problem

[@nobodyishere00000]

I see that CHB shirt, you are one of my favorite cosplayers now

[@ericathefae]

This explained so much! PS. I would love to see more examples of celebrities' costumes that use this system.

[@candygirl77777]

I’m totally gonna make one! I’ve made corsets but never knew about these. Thanks for always being informative!

[@nix_cosplay]

I've seen similar comments-- I don't 100% get the idea of tension (like the reason for putting the tights under the bodysuit). Is it only necessary because you're lowering your waist a bit? Regular corsets sit fine without the same vertical tension. I really feel like I'm missing something, I hope you explain more in the next video. I hope you post the drafting vid soon, I'm keen to make one!

[@meowscosplay1230]

You’ve just changed my life

[@rockencheesepuffs]

Super cool to see how support garments can change so much! Great video as always!! (Hello Baby bat!)

[@Maaad-maaan]

Always wear undergarments under the corset. This prevents any skin issues as the corset rubs against the skin. It also help with smells as you sweat it won’t end up on the corset, but instead the under garment. It’s easier to wash a slip rather than a corset

[@moth.faerie]

bc of the costumes i'm wearing over the corset body i can't really wear another garment under, or it'll show whether bc of length or straps or whatever, but this is extremely easy to wash so it's not a problem.

[@pauln6917]

Oh, This reminds me of the Star Trek Bunnies at the Star Trek Cons!

[@triplehearts914]

;o; you're so pretty and talented omg i really wanna try making this for a bunnysuit cosplay!

[@justme-qd6qb]

the flipper bone trick blew my whole mind

[@tinkersintheworkshop4439]

Can't wait to try out these flipper bones!

[@bunnybearme]

So glad I stumbled on your video! You answered my doubts a whole lot! I made a similar body corset for Black Canary and planned to make a base body corset for all my future cosplays. With my Black Canary costume, I added a snap closure at the crotch (for easier toilet access) and wore open-crotch tights with C-string underwear.

[@hiruki8]

Hi if you want to be able to pee in some of these costumes, in addition to adding the crotch button snaps to the corset body, you can try adding a crotch flap to your tights like a lot of shapewear has. Basically a double layer flap you can pull out of the way so you can pee without really removing your undergarments

[@SaraTen]

I was contemplating something like this, cuz I have kidney issues lol. All I could think of was old school bloomers with a slit, but double layer flap would feel more secure.

[@Scarlett-Hofferson]

That last dress was gorgeous! And it makes me want to see you do a Yor Forger cosplay

[@moth.faerie]

Ooh I still haven’t watched spy family yet but it’s on my list!

[@riotfaerie]

I soooooo need this pattern! Is there a video on how to draft/construct them? I'm willing to learn!

[@melissaquinn1463]

I would be curious about the pattern design and fitting process. Please make a video about that. I've made Bunny costumes for 3 different bodies, and I found the most difficult part was tailoring the seat.

[@AnniCarlsson]

Exactly what i need. But should do with opening downstairs because i would need it under a few normal party dresses as well to make them feel more secure when dancing in them

[@raynymph8514]

I don't know if you have done a video of how to make a pattern for a bunny suit, but could you show us pleaseeee?

[@amaeve1950]

Would have loved to have had a corset body for my wedding dress. Had to get by with a girdle, which just wasn't quite right.

[@sennievee6833]

I've watched and rewatched this series a ton, it's really helpful! What is the benefit of a corset body over a normal corset? Does having the bottom part smooth the hip edges more? Or is it just a personal preference?

[@TheNataliestone]

Thank you so much for sharing this! Looking forward to the patterning video. I definitely need one of these in my life.

[@haylstorm6]

I think your message about the reason for using a corset came across well! Also, your beaded costume is gorgeous!!

[@JadeSummers218]

Yesssss yes yes yes. Excellent. That flipper bone blew my mind. This is about to change my life. Also that beaded dress was such a flex, it's amazing!

[@jac_and_the_making_of]

I love watching other creators because everyone makes really neat stuff, but at the same time... my own list keeps growing. hahaha This particular garment is actually heckin' helpful, because I want to get back into cosplay next year, so... YAY! thank you! :) :)

[@Kylla8]

I would like to see a corselette-making video if possible please.

[@tigerinthelilys1510]

This is perfect timing! I'm working on making this exact thing, but there aren't (or at least not that I've found) videos or anything really like this. Thank you! I love your videos, and your work is so beautiful

[@deletedddddddddd]

ah yes this will def help with my destiny armour cosplay

[@AinaraPardo0808]

I have a corset that I loooove, it makes exactly what your bodysuit does, the only problem is if I want to wear an elastic dress the closure is a bit noticeable (the same brand sells no line corsets that are made to be unnoticeable under clothes with zipper closure but I don't have any) so maybe I can make a corset cover to smooth the look.. The flipper bones are a genious idea, will 100% use it.

[@AlexaFaie]

Some people find that adding tights on top or like a spanx type garment (seam free if possible) can help hide the busk clips. Or you can of course make your own. I've got the one corset from TT and that one I got in a holographic PVC so its meant to be seen which is good because its super bulky since PVC is just so thick and they used it for the binding as well as the body of the corset. I'd have a lot of trouble trying to hide that one! I've been meaning to try one of their No-line corsets but I gained weight and my proportions no longer work with any of their options. I could only just fit the Gemini in a 2" reduction, it wouldn't have had space in the hips for me with a larger reduction when I got it. But my hips got so much larger that sizing up to a larger waist size corset isn't enough. Shame really as I wanted to see how the no-line functioned. All of my collection of corsets so far have been for outerwear.

[@sarahjohnson1487]

I would love a video on patterning this!! Looking forward to it :) thank you!

[@cinemaocd1752]

This is such a great idea. Having to completely remake or worse, give up on a costume because you've gained weight...we've all been there. It sucks. I have done the duck tape method to come up with the basic bodice pieces, it wouldn't be that hard to make this compared to resewing a leather costume.

[@doemtij]

i'm assuming you don't wear an underlayer under the corset body, how does the corset body feel? from what i've gathered so far is to always wear an underlayer under a corset or else it'll be uncomfortable, is that also the case for the corset body? it's definitely a very useful trick!! also a camp halfblood shirt?? hell yes ma'am

[@moth.faerie]

It’s not uncomfortable at all! I think bc I’m not wearing it long term, only ever for a few hours at a time for one weekend every few months it’s not like someone who is waist training who might get the equivalent of bed sores from the constant contact

[@samantharae1487]

From what I know, historically at least, the layer under the corset (chemise) was not for comfort, but to prevent to corset/stays from needing to be washed frequently by preventing it from contact with sweat and natural skin oils. So long as the corset fabric isn’t burlap it should feel fine against your skin

[@BlackDawnYaoiLover]

This would be perfect for armor builds and I never even thought about something like this I was always skeptical about wearing foam breastplates because what if one of the seams busts???

[@katieberry1225]

pls make a video on how to draft one!

[@gaphic]

re: needing assistance to close it, would putting the zipper in the front help with that at all? or would having to navigate much squishier flesh outweigh the ease of reach

[@phoebe5169]

i dont have access to a sewing machine nor can i really sew but this is exactly what ive been looking for. is there anything exactly like this online? waist cinching and all??

[@pauln6917]

I feel like this means a Sailor Moon Cosplay is coming. :)

[@StarDawn]

This is really useful, thank you! Looking forward to the drafting video! ❤️

[@ohifonlyx33]

Corsets... Like, firm, steel-boned over or underbust corsets snugly laced up the back are actually sososooo comfy. Back support for DAYSSSS. Like a wearable hug. And they make your shape look a little more ~feminine. BIG FAN. I just wish they looked right under normal day clothes and that I could wear them at work without feeling conspicuous. I'm not saying to tightlace until you pass out... and most women who wore them didn't tightlace anyway. But the idea that women wore them for like 200 years because of ~oppression is absurd. I love a good corset. I wish I could afford to own more than one.

[@spookyblooky4783]

I really wish youd drop the pattern and ill size it up or down for myself 😭😭😭

[@khg1546]

Would love to see a drafting video. Thank you so much for going into this, both construction and WHY to wear.

[@angelmagickcosplay4162]

Had on my watched later list to listen to for work but adding to my cosplay tips for future reference!! Brilliant video and very explanatory. Corset like garments are my bane. I'm a fabric specialist but I can never make them look right since I got porky but this is a different perspective to how I've been doing g them so I am definately going to give this a go!! 🥰🥰

[@angelmagickcosplay4162]

Gonna add that I had to smile as I heard capezio tights, since I'm an ex dancer and swear by them! Even that brand! 🤣🤣❤️❤️❤️

[@BlackCyBiene]

thank you for the demonstration

[@IchigoDeFolie]

Miss ma'am you need to sell that pattern

[@theoddbody1856]

Wow! I’d love to see how you drafted this!

[@lyssar10]

Is the purpose of the tights to wear them underneath the corset body or are they more for compression? I ask because a solution that I would typically employ as a dancer would be to wear my tights over my leotard, especially if I had quick costume changes that required changing tights in the middle of a show, and that makes it infinitely easier to go to the restroom. But if the purpose of the tights is to have them below the corset body then obviously this tip won’t apply lol.

[@moth.faerie]

They keep the crotch part of the corset body from riding up since it really relies on the tension from top to bottom as well as the side to side tension

[@Lyissaful]

Thank you! This is so helpful. Can't wait for the patterning video :)

[@whimsicalmusedesign]

Omg! I didn’t realize you made that piece! That is so cool! I just thought it was a piece you bought…and used during the video! 😂 so exciting!

[@waterbitten]

Love all the info and research in this video. 👌🏽 looking forward to patterning video.

[@emilysmith2784]

It was very thorough. Thanks for sharing.

[@poppyblack3356]

Uhhh, it looks so cool! I want one for myself xD! When is this pattern video coming up?! Can't wait!

[@four1629]

minji!!! omg i haven't had any time but i am so excited to be watching your content again, everything you do is really cool and inspiring (especially now as i change my major... again,,,,). also i have the exact same camp half blood shirt, and it's one of my favorite clothing items. pure nostalgia and joy

[@ichinisa2583]

Every time she said "and this is with the corset body" I genuinely gasped. How long could you wear the corset body on its own if the bathroom going wasn't an issue? when I've worn things like that my hips start hurting really soon :(

[@AlexaFaie]

Did the measurements work with your own? I know that a lot of people who have tried corsets have got them from places who only list the waist measurement and don't tell you what size hips they're designed to fit and too small hips on a corset can cause pinching. Then there is also the issue that some ready made corsets aren't really cut anatomically so they'll have a very slow gradual slope from waist to hips like a straight line whereas our pelvis is curved and if you reduce the waist, you need to account for that curve at the top. You can have a corset which should theoretically fit your hips at the very bottom based on measurements, but the issue is the high hip. I've not worn a corset body before, but when I wear my underbust corsets I can wear them a full day just fine with no pain even when I've not worn one for ages. But that's only because I've got used to what my body needs out of a corset and how to find one which suits my measurements. Though my best fitting corset was custom made to measure with in person fittings and that made a world of a difference in terms of fit. I don't fit most off the rack corsets as I have quite an extreme natural hourglass as it is (when I was tiny it was just the standard 10" larger bust and hips compared to waist, after weight gain my bust and hips are now both 14" larger than my natural waist). So I learned pretty early on that I needed lots of hip room LOL. Generally speaking, if you have no medical conditions which could affect this kind of thing, pain when wearing a corset is the sign of a poor fit. Be that lacing too tight too quickly in an otherwise well fitting corset, or wearing one too straight up and down for your own body.

[@VioletMagpie]

nice video!!!! Thanks it gave me a lot to think about that I like and want to incorporate!

[@MrsNoji]

Oooh I like this!

[@Ninanomori]

YYYYYYYYYYUUUUUUUUUSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!! Holy snap thanks for being so fast and making my dreams come true! 🎉

[@sammy6148]

Great video! Love the CBH tshirt 😉😉

[@nokeechia]

Hmm i do wonder if the corset body works for large busts. I would love to try it, but don't want to be too disappointed

[@moth.faerie]

It should still work! I would start with a corset pattern for large busts, I’ve drafted corselets for larger busted opera singers and it’s kept the dress in place and the bust lifted

[@PacakeQueen]

If you find a pattern that accommodates your bust it should work. Personally I usually pair an underbust corset with a strapless bra rather than a corset body. The corset keeps the strapless bra from sliding down