Sketchy Stories: Corset it up

Formal affairs are a good excuse to glam it up and try something new. So, when Ate Bullet told me of her upcoming formal event at the new Grand Ballroom of the Marriot, I thought she should wear something glam and new.

Although she's been wearing the strapless silhouette for quite some time now, she's never tried a corset-style dress before. Although she has one - the Proenza Schoulder from HKG - she's never used it. That's when the thought of a corset gown came up. 

Since the top was already a detailed corset, the bottom part of the had to be simple, hence an A-line, pieced skirt. The fabric was corded lace in blush, mainly because Ate is into that color these days. Plus, it will make the details of the corset more visible. Finally, a jeweled belt was designed in to cinch the waist.

A corset is actually very tricky to do. In Paris, there are Corsetieres who do nothing but corsets, but they do it perfectly. We're not in Paris though, so I was hesitant to suggest this look. But I pushed through with it.

I went to one of the family's trusted dressmakers and explained to her the concept. She seemed to grasp the entire thing, so that was a "whew" moment. Still wasn't sure if she could pull it off, though.

When Ate went to her first fitting, I was pleasantly surprised at how she was able to make a nicely structured corset. It's not a Parisian-quality one, but it was pretty good considering the time she had to make it.

With the corset top and the simple, flowy skirt, the gown looked good and ready for a formal event. The silhouette and style, plus the jeweled belt, made it look elegant. But the color and fabric made it look fresh.

After taking it to the ball last Monday, Ate said that the dress was a hit. She got a lot of compliments, some coming from designers and stylists. And in a ballroom crawling with black and white dresses, her blush color palette was a refreshing change.

Just goes to show that you don't have to go over-the-top to go glam. Sometimes, fresh, simple and new is a good way to go.