TV110 Sizing for a Newbie

[Pam]

Hi, I've just ordered the e-pattern for the Victorian corset and could use a little help with sizing, please.

I am a costumed room guide at Lanhydrock House (National Trust) and I wear a late Victorian blouse and walking skirt. I have been wearing an off-the-peg overbust corset from 'Corset Story' but really want something that will fit me better so have finally stopped lurking and made the decision to make my own one - the clothing just doesn't look right with modern underpinnings!

I wear a 38G Bra normally - being fairly well endowed in the boobage department but my actual measurements are:

Bust 43"
Waist 34" (uncorseted)
Hips 40"

So... should I choose G for the waist and Bust (D cup) and F for the hip? Did I get that right, please? I am not as firm in the boobage as I used to be (I'm 63 in July) and I hate the thought of my cups overflowing, as it were... I will DEFINITELY be wearing a chemise and corset cover!

We're recreating the 1893 Costume Ball at Christmas and along with the costume I'm making to put on the static mannequin, I will be making something a little special to wear too, so would love to get the underpinnings right!
Thanks in advance,
Pam x

[Heather]

Yes, that sounds like the sizing I would start with. Though you might want to keep the hip at the size G. You want the hip to be larger rather than smaller, as whatever you take off on your waist has to go somewhere, and the hip is usually the place. If it turns out to be too large, you can always take it in.

[Pam]

Brilliant, thanks so much! Yes, I'll try it with G all the way - after all, that floof has to go somewhere!

Will let you know how I get on