Q: How do I order my custom corset if I can’t get to your studio?
A: To order your custom corset online, begin by looking through the corset and gallery sections of the website to get an idea of what you may like. You are welcome to call, or email us if you have any questions, or need advice on what style or fabric would suit you best.
Please see our page Ordering Online
Q: I am planning on losing weight for my wedding, should I order my corset now, or should I wait?
A: It is best to wait until you are close to your goal weight before you measure for your corset to achieve the best fit. Weight can come off in some places faster than others and this can result in an ill fitting corset. We do leave 2″ of space in the back as well as a back protector to accommodate some weight fluctuations.
Q: Do you provide personal fittings?
A: We provide a friendly, discreet and non-judgemental environment for your corset fitting in the central Toronto area. If you would like a personal fitting, please call to book at least 3 days in advance. We are available for fittings weekends and evenings. Consultations are also available over the phone and by email. Please contact us to book an appointment.
Q: What should I expect once I place my online order?
A: Once you place your order and send your deposit, we will give you an estimated time of completion. This will vary between 6-8 weeks depending on the season. We must receive the remainder of your payment before we ship your order. Your corset will be sent UPS to the US, and you will be notified of a tracking number if it is within the US or Canada. Overseas orders are sent Canada Post and take considerably longer in transit. We cannot guarantee delivery times of overseas orders without additional shipping fees. Your corset will arrive properly laced and will include a back protector. We will also include information for lacing up your corset and how to take care of your corset and yourself while wearing one.
Q: I am nervous taking my own measurements, how can I be sure I won’t mess up?
A: It is best to have a friend measure for you, so you can stand straight and not have to bend to look at the tape positioning. When we receive your measurements, we look them over to see if anything looks unusual and we may ask that you re-measure something specific. We have been making custom corsets by mail order for over 20 years, so we can see if something looks off before we begin your pattern. We are happy to help you through the process step by step if you need, and all bespoke corsets come with a cotton mock up that you can use to see how your final corset will fit.
Q: Do have to have a severe waist reduction with a corset?
A: Not at all! Most corsets we make have a natural looking waist curve, this is about 3″ smaller than your natural waist measurement and is very comfortable to wear all day if you choose. Tightlacing and severe waist reductions can be achieved, but are not necessary.
Q: I like the top of the Batty and the bottom of the Gabrielle, can you combine the two?
A: Absolutely! Because each corset is custom made, we can make any modifications you like. We can mix up tops and bottoms, add or remove shoulder straps and even make your own unique modifications.
Q: What are the benefits of a Starkers custom made corset over an ‘off the rack’ model?
A: At Starkers, our bespoke or custom corsets are made from the measurements and information you provide us with. We take the time to draft your pattern and construct your garment to fit your individual body and style. When a corset is properly made to fit you, it is very comfortable and easy to wear. While our Ready To Wear corsets are designed to fit a standard size, and cannot be customized further than the sizing. We can vouch for the quality of our ready to wear corsets, as they are made entirely in our Toronto studio, using the same high quality materials that our bespoke corsets are made from.
Read more: Q: What are the benefits of a Starkers! custom made corset over an ‘off the rack’ model?
Q: Do you wholesale?
A: No, all of our items are made in our Toronto studio so we can be sure of the quality of workmanship and materials (and working conditions); we do not offer wholesale services.
Q: I have problems with my back and require a brace for it. Would your corsets be suitable for medical purposes?
A: We are not licensed to make garments for medical use or medically corrective garments, however, we can create a corset that can be used for these purposes, and have often had doctors recommend our corsets to their patients . I have had personal experience with back injury and the relief a corset can give, please contact us before placing your order if you are looking for a corset for this purpose, and always check with your doctor to see if this is right for you.