TrueCorset Blog

Remember the attention-grabbing costumes in several early 2000s hit movies such as Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Sherlock Holmes (2004), The Prestige (2006), and even Hellboy (2004)? We sure do. The incorporation of vests, hats, straight and long coats with goggles, leather boots, and gloves made a substantial impact on the film industries around the world.

Another essential element of women’s Steampunk Fashion was corsets. Halloween costumes in the early 2000s and have seen the addition of corsets to a wide range of fusion fashion such as Steampunk Fashion. Today, years later, corsets and Steampunk are still a favorite at costume parties.

What Exactly Is Steampunk Fashion?

Diving into the history of the evolution of fashion, such a unique fashion trend as this originated during the 1980s with the fictional fusion of Victorian-era costumes and European industrialization clothes.

This fusion caused the coming together of elements such as gowns, feather hats, long coats, corsets, and boots from the Victorian romantic era and frills, large accessories, goggles, gloves, leather elements, hairstyles, and much more from the emerging goth and streetwear fashion aesthetics.

As you may have already imagined, corsets played a key role when it came to Steampunk Fashion and were used as an outer clothing item rather than an undergarment as it was traditionally worn in the Victorian era.

Corsets In Steampunk Fashion

We know that it was during the Victorian era that corsets were widely produced and worn under heavy gowns as undergarments. However, Steampunk gave it the chance to shine. Leather and brocade corsets were the most popular addition to any women’s costume.

If you are looking to recreate your favorite Steampunk-inspired movie character costume this Halloween, True Corset is the stop for you. Check out their vast range of Steampunk corsets and leather corsets. Pairing up corsets with Edwardian hats is bound to take your audience back to the 1980s.

Corset: An Essential In Steampunk Fashion

The reason corsets became an essential part of Steampunk Fashion was simply because they effectively elevate an ordinary outfit with the incorporation of other accessories such as goggles, hats, gloves, and most importantly, leather belts over the corset.

Corsets add a powerful, sensual, retro, and feminine detail to steampunk outfits. This Curvella Full Hips Steampunk Waist Training Corset from True Corset is the perfect pick for your outfit choice, be it as a Halloween costume party or simply for you to explore a new era and trend of aesthetic clothing.

This fine corset captures the whole essence of steampunk with its purposeful brass effect swing busk front closure to the brass studs and rivets. It gives you the perfect wisp slip waist and desirable broad hips. Its 24 steel bones also help in training and retaining the curvy waist-hip proportion.

Steampunk Halloween Costume Ideas

There are endless ways to incorporate Steampunk Fashion and corsets into your next Halloween costume. Here are a few of the many movie-inspired costumes that showcase steampunk perfectly.

●      Pirates Of The Caribbean

The very first movie that comes to mind when we think of corsets, hats, and eye patches is The Pirates of The Caribbean. To build a steampunk outfit with this movie in mind, you would need a flowy gown or skirt, preferably in off-white, cream, or even black. Next, the best corset pick would be this Pirate Corset - Pirates of the Caribbean Corset from True Corset.

Its eye-catching pirate symbol effortlessly expresses everything that your costume should be conveying.

●      The Legend Of Hercules

This legendary film also incorporates a variety of steampunk fashion ideas including corsets and shoulder armours. If you are looking to adopt the costume of any character from this movie, this Playgirl Black Shoulder Armour from True Corset might just be the accessory that pulls your whole look together.

A shoulder armor with other similar war essentials in your costume is sure to catch everyone’s attention.

●      The Chronicles Of Narnia

Another classic movie whose costumes get recreated each year by many across the world. Incorporating steampunk fashion into the more traditional costumes from the movie will give you a modern edge.

With the presence of strong female characters, it is essential to add a strong yet feminine leather corset to your costume to portray the firmness of the character all through your costume.

●      Wild Wild West

The first things that come to mind when we think of this timeless movie are cowboy hats, cowboy boots, corsets over dresses for women, and long overcoats over tuxedos for men.

Hard-ribbed steel and leather come together to make the perfect blend of Victorian and modern aesthetics. To add more similarities to the original movie costumes, leather belts would be a great addition.

The Modern-Day Steampunk Fashion

Steampunk fashion has evolved a lot since its origin in the 1980s. However, certain elements such as the inclusion of corsets, leather boots, long coats, cowboy hats, goggles, and gloves have remained intact.

In today’s time, the essence of steampunk can only be seen during Halloween. Although certain high fashion lines such as Ottavio Nuccio Gala still incorporate its elements in their collections to further its luxurious spirit.

Conclusion

We do not get to see fusion fashion that gains the amount of attention that Steampunk Fashion gained, starting from its introduction in the late 19th century till the present day 21st century. It can be seen most evidently in movies such as Sherlock Holmes, Hellboy, and The Prestige.

Currently, Steampunk Fashion can be seen best as Halloween inspired by classic Hollywood movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean, The Legend of Hercules, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Wild Wild West. With elements like corsets and cowboy hats, it may be the next best option for your Halloween costume this year.

Greetings, fellow comfort enthusiasts and seekers! If you've ever experienced the joy of wearing a bra that fits like a second skin, you know a perfectly fitting bra can make all the difference. Unravel the mystery of bra sizing and finding the ideal fit – from the first step to that comfortable bra embrace.

Also, if you're on a quest for that "ahh-mazing" level of comfort and an impeccable fit in the world of undergarments, you're about to embark on a whimsical journey into the realm of bras. Psst, Psst, we are also going to talk about the wire-free constructed bras that deserve their own spot in the ‘Bra Hall of Fame.’

Step 1: Know the Answer to ‘Why is Bra Sizing Important?’

Before you dive into the bra sizing article, let's understand why it matters. A well-fitting bra isn't just about looking fabulous, a common misconception. Actually, it's about comfort, support, and even your posture. An ill-fitting bra can lead to discomfort and back pain and even affect your confidence. Also, shouldn’t someone mention the constant urge to adjust the bra? So, let's embark on this adventure to find that perfect fit for the sake of your comfort & support.

Step 2: Measure Band Size

The usual method of bra sizing involves two measurements. The first one is by measuring the band, which is the measurement around the ribcage. It is where the bra underband sits. A band size is the number of the bra size (32, 34, 36, 38, and many more).

To measure it accurately, exhale deeply and wrap a measuring tape around the ribcage, just under the bust, ensuring that the measuring tape is comfortably snug but not too tight and parallel to the ground. If the measurement is an even number, that's your band size.

If it's an odd number, at or below the half-inch mark, round down to the nearest even number and never add inches. Also, ensure that the measurement is performed twice. Once with a sleep bra on and the second time without a bra for accurate results.

Did you know?

Maximum bra support comes from the band and not from the straps.

Step 3: Measure Bust Size

The next step is to measure bust size, the second measurement required in bra sizing. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust across the nipples while keeping it parallel to the ground. Make sure the tape is comfortably snug but not too tight. This measurement is crucial for determining your cup size. When you land between two numbers, always round up as you may need the extra room in the cup for comfort.

Step 4: Calculate Cup Size

Cup size is denoted as a letter that is the difference between the band size & bust size. To determine the cup size, simply subtract your band size measurement from your bust size measurement. The difference will help you determine cup size. Here's a quick reference for cup sizes -

1 inch - A cup,

2 inches - B cup,

3 inches - C cup,

4 inches - D cup,

5 inches - DD or E cup,

6 inches - DDD or F cup, and so on.

Step 5: Combine the Band Size and Cup Size

Now that you have your band size and cup size, combine them to get your bra size. For example, if your band size is 32 and your cup size is D, your bra size is 32D.

Step 6: Check the Fit

Trying on different bras is the real test. Checking the fit is vital because the sizes can vary between brands and styles. Try on different sizes if required. A perfect-fit bra will center across the back with a snug fitting & straps adjusted to the most comfortable spot with a lifted & rounded breast shape.

When you put on a bra, the band sits snugly around the ribcage, parallel to the ground. An ill-fitted bra will ride up at the back, or the straps will keep sliding off. If your bra has an underwire, it should stay positioned at the meeting point of the breast bottom & the ribcage, encasing the breasts and not poking around it.

An ill-fitted bra will never be able to completely conceal breasts, cause a muffin top, straps bearing the complete weight of the breasts, or cause underwire poking issues.

Step 7: Comfort is the QUEEN!

Make sure the bra feels comfortable around your body that is the key. There should be no need to adjust the straps and no breast spillage or gaping.

What else should you try to find the perfect fit?

Remember, bra sizing isn't a ‘One-size-fits-all’ case. Every body is unique, and so is the ideal fit. The process of finding a bra may demand patience. Be ready for it. Choose the one that makes you feel comfortable & confident.

Before you finalize your perfect fit, you may even consult professional advice. Many stores and even e-commerce platforms offer fitting services that help you find that perfect fit. You may try different bra styles according to your requirements and choose what’s best for you.

If you’re looking for something comfortable & vintage, check out bullet bras. Also, don’t forget to check out bra-specific rules. For example, women who have a size above a DD should opt for a lower band size and a bigger cup size while choosing a bullet bra. The reason is vintage bras often lack the stretch of modern designs. If you want to know more, check out the bullet bra guide.

Wireless Bras - A Symphony of Comfort and Support

Ah, the wire-free bras, the unsung bra type that elevates comfort & support to an art form. Let’s talk wireless bras - the real champions of freedom! Wireless bras are surely the pinnacle of undergarment engineering. Moreover, they come in a variety of styles, but one thing’s for certain - they're all about that comfortable embrace.

Where can you find the Best Wireless Bras for Your Everyday Wear?

Conquer your day with confidence or lounge like a queen; wireless bras are your genuine companions. Whether you are looking for seamless wireless bras that make you feel like you're wearing a cloud or chemical free bras that take care of your well-being, there is a brand out there that serves it all.

Check out the magic of a wire-free constructed bra - The Everywear Bra by The Vibrant Body Company. These wireless bras are surely what we call ‘Love at First Wear!’ Ah, the feeling of slipping into a wireless bra, aka, the comfortable bra, that feels tailor-made for you. These bras are not just a piece of clothing; they’re your daily companions in comfort.

Embrace Comfort, Embrace You

In conclusion, bra sizing is a journey that should lead to the ultimate comfort and support.  A perfect-fit bra is like a warm hug from your favorite blanket but with a touch of style and elegance. By following the steps mentioned in the article, you can demystify the world of bra sizing and discover the joy of wearing bras that fit you perfectly.

Don’t forget to check out different bra styles, from bullet bras to seamless wireless bras that are the epitome of comfort and support. Remember, finding your perfect fit can be like finding a treasure chest – except this chest is full of comfy chemical free bras that’ll make you feel on top of the world.

So go forth, embrace comfort, and embrace your unique, fabulous self! Selecting bras should all be about lifting your spirits. So go ahead, measure, try, and find your perfect fit – your body deserves nothing less!

When there is a discussion about women’s undergarments, there are quite a few that are as important & widely used as bras. When chosen rightly, these undergarments provide support & comfort to an individual throughout the day.

The last few years have witnessed great evolution in the design & manufacturing of bras. The advent of wire-free bras, also known as wireless bras, is a testimony of the evolution in bra manufacturing.

Undergarment manufacturing, especially bra manufacturing involves a combination of science, engineering, and fashion to create comfortable, supportive, chemical-free, and safe undergarments that have revolutionized personal hygiene.

The Rise of Wireless or Wire-free Bras -

Wire-free or Wireless bras have gained immense popularity due to their exceptional comfort and versatility. Unlike traditional bras with underwires, wireless bras eliminate the discomfort & restriction often associated with metal wires that can dig into the skin or cause chafing or pinching. This design breakthrough is rooted in the meticulous selection of materials and thoughtful construction techniques that work with your body shape & not against it.

Wire-free or wireless bras achieve their remarkable comfort through ingenious construction methods. It is vital to understand that the absence of underwires does not mean a sacrifice in support. Instead, wireless or wire-free bras rely on thoughtful design elements to provide comfort, support, lift, and shaping.

For example, a wireless bra might be manufactured by layering wherein an inner layer is made of high-density fabric & outer layer is made of soft fabric. The high-density fabric helps provide lift & contour, while the soft fabric provides a seamless finish & natural silhouette. The use of just these two layers distributes the bust weight evenly and eliminates any possibility of pressure points.

If you’re really interested in different types of bras, check out our comprehensive guide on bullet bras.

Does the Choice of Material Really Matter?

The primary reason behind the comfort of wireless or wire-free bras begins with the meticulous selection of materials. Premium fabrics, such as soft cotton blends, luxurious silks, and high-performance microfibers, are chosen for their breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and hypoallergenic qualities. These materials ensure that bras are gentle on the skin and provide a comfortable foundation for daily wear.

Why should you choose Chemical-Free options?

Undergarments are in contact with intimate parts hence choosing chemical-free options becomes vital, especially when choosing bras, as they are in direct contact with the women’s breasts.

Did you know? Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. One of the common reasons for breast cancer is due to direct contact with chemicals. Hence, choosing chemical-free bras becomes vital.

Brands like Vibrant Body Company go one step ahead and follow strict OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100. The standard ensures that every construction material of the bra has been tested for harmful levels of toxic substances during manufacturing processes. The criteria for OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 testing considers various routes toxins can employ to enter the human body (for example, skin or respiration).

How Critical is the Role of Design?

Many bra designs can cause chafing & irritation, especially in the absence of wires. The seamless design integrates comfort and takes material selection to another level. For the elimination of seams, advanced weaving techniques are employed. Seamless design, especially in the case of straps, provides better mobility and ensures no slip so that one would never need to adjust their bra.

Brands like Vibrant Body Company employ soft checkmark-shaped cups with their patented teardrop cutout & flexible side boning, along with their no-slip straps provides a snug & flexible fit making their bras an ideal choice for all-day wear.

The Everyday Essential

Wire-free constructed bras have become the go-to choice for an ‘everyday bra’ or The EveryWear Bra^TM. Everyday bras provide comfort combined with the versatility of seamless design, making them perfect for daily wear. Whether you are walking, doing Yoga, working at the office, or doing household chores, these bras provide the best balance of style, comfort, and support.

Are you looking for bras for a special occasion? Don’t forget to check out bullet bras.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the evolution of bras has witnessed the rise of wire-free, or wireless bras, driven by a combination of science, engineering, and fashion. The manufacturing of bras has redefined comfort by eliminating the discomfort associated with traditional underwires, thanks to meticulous material selection and innovative construction techniques.

Wireless bras offer support, comfort, and flexibility through thoughtful design, such as layering high-density and soft fabrics for even weight distribution or other patented designs. Choosing chemical-free options, exemplified by brands like Vibrant Body Company, is crucial for intimate wear. The seamless design and advanced weaving techniques further enhance comfort and mobility.

In essence, chemical-free & wire-free constructed bras have become the essential choice for everyday wear, seamlessly combining style, comfort, and support for modern women.

What comes to your mind when we talk about self-care? Is it spa, meditation, healthy lifestyle, or gym? However, seldom does one thinks about one essential self-care aspect, which is the importance of wearing comfortable & supportive garments & undergarments.

This aspect is usually overlooked by many individuals. While one may not give it enough importance, a well-fitted undergarment like a bra will help to significantly contribute to your overall well-being and enhance physical comfort. In this article, we will strictly focus on various types of comfortable bras which may cater to different needs, but always ensure that your self-care routine is maintained & provides the comfort & support that your bust deserves.

If you’re really interested in different types of bras, don’t forget to check out bullet bras.

Do we need Supportive Bras with Underwires?

Women, especially plus-size women, often face a unique challenge when it comes to finding bras that provide adequate support without sacrificing comfort. Underwires are meant to provide support & increase comfort, but instead, they often fall flat and completely do the opposite. Especially with plus-size women, the underwires tend to be less effective. With larger busts, the underwire tends to poke & cause discomfort.

But without underwires, how can plus-size supportive bras be designed without the necessary lift & support? While the underwire intends to help distribute the weight of the bust evenly and help reduce the strain on the shoulders & back, they fail in doing so. But what alternative do you have?

Check out Vibrant Body Company which manufactures bras without underwires. Their patented Smart Cup Technology offers more comfort than wired bras so that one can go about the day with confidence. These bras are crafted with innovative designs to ensure maximum comfort while maintaining the required support.

Wireless bras are perfect for daily wear, offering a sense of freedom and comfort that can significantly contribute to your overall well-being. From running errands to lounging at home, wireless bras are the epitome of self-care for your body. Comfortable wireless bras promote self-care and are ideal for daily wear. Self-care is about feeling good in your own skin, and a well-fitted, supportive wireless bra can significantly boost your self-esteem.

Should you buy Minimizer Bras for a Sleek Silhouette?

Many women seeking a sleeker silhouette or even wishing to downplay the appearance of a larger bust choose minimizer bras. Minimizer bras are designed to evenly distribute breast tissue and create a more balanced look. By redistributing the breast tissue, minimizer bras help in achieving a smoother profile, making your clothing fit better.

As minimizer bras work on compression, too much compression can lead to back pain, breast soreness, circulation problems, and other issues. How can you avoid it? Vibrant Body Company offers bras designed with their patented teardrop cutout and flexible side boning that eliminates the side effects of the minimizer bras.

Self-care isn't just about physical comfort but also about embracing your body and feeling comfortable in your own skin. Vibrant Body Company manufactures bras that are made with a soft checkmark-shaped cup that supports your natural shape & doesn’t compromise comfort.

Why should you always buy No-Slip Straps Bras?

Tell yourself honestly, how often have you found yourself adjusting your bra straps throughout the day? No-slip straps bras are a game-changer in this department. These bras feature specially designed straps that stay in place, eliminating the need for constant readjustments. It enhances your comfort and prevents potential strain on your shoulders and neck.

So, now you will not worry about straps that may slip, dig or itch. Vibrant Body Company manufactures no-slip strap designs with a padded back clasp and seamless stitching that provides you enhanced comfort & freedom from adjusting your bra. By delivering reliable support without the hassle of strap adjustments, these bras contribute to a stress-free day, promoting a sense of well-being and contentment.

Are there bras manufactured chemical-free?

In manufacturing bras, many harmful chemicals stay on clothes, and when worn, percolate into the skin and can cause health problems from rashes and itching to even breast cancer. Some manufacturers sell bras without harmful chemicals and follow strict OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100. The Vibrant Body Company is one such manufacturer that strictly follows OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 means every component of their undergarments has been tested for toxic chemicals for their harmful levels. The testing criteria take into account various ways the toxic chemicals can be absorbed into the body as skin contact & respiration.

Do you know about bullet bras? Find out more about them in a comprehensive guide on bullet bras.

Conclusion

Self-care extends beyond traditional practices and encompasses every aspect of your physical and mental well-being. Wearing comfortable bras tailored to your specific needs is an essential component of this self-care journey. Women in search of comfort & support tend to choose full-coverage bras & V-shape design bras. Choosing supportive bras without underwires to no-slip straps bras, each type addresses different concerns while prioritizing comfort, support, and confidence.

By investing in bras that cater to your body's unique requirements, you can enhance your overall well-being and feel your best in every situation. Remember, self-care starts with the foundation you lay for your body's comfort and confidence. Online brand stores like Vibrant Body Company are offering the most comfortable bras that help in one’s well-being & self-care. Don’t forget to check them out here

The corset has always had a dark edge in popular culture. It could be the gothic heroine facing a monster in the shadows or the decadent burlesque star performing on a dimly lit stage. It’s dangerous, feminine and sensual. There is something about the corset that matches with the tone and atmosphere of a very grown-up Halloween.

For vintage lovers, Halloween is also a time to let their corset outside of their lingerie drawer. This is a night when underwear becomes outerwear and you can show off your favorite vintage-inspired finds while turning heads for the right reasons.

If you feel like getting laced in as you dress up this Halloween there are plenty of options to explore. From steampunk to supervillains we have corset inspiration to suit your style this spooky season.

Check out 5 of our favorite corsets and corset outfits for Halloween below.

The Steampunk

This Victoriana inspired corset is perfect for women who want to add some historical drama to their Halloween outfit. Created in black brocade with leather and industrial brass detailing it makes the perfect centerpiece for a Steampunk costume or a military inspired outfit. Steel boning ensures you achieve a distinctive hourglass shape. Team it with a leather skirt, frothy white shirt and long black boots for a Halloween look with serious impact.

The Sci-Fi Goddess

Unlock your inner sci-fi goddess with this cool as ice, blue and black corset. This outfit set comes complete with bolero, skirt, and belt meaning you have your Halloween look set in just a couple of clicks. This sexy Halloween look will show off your curves while letting you indulge your inner geek. Wear it for Halloween, Cosplay and just because.

The Supervillain

Villains always have more fun and this Joker inspired green corset will certainly have you smiling this Halloween. This set includes a purple bolero and skirt, meaning all you need to add is menacing make-up and your spookiest grin. This beautiful corset is gorgeous enough to wear long after the scares have stopped and its steel boning and lace-up back will provide you with a perfectly proportioned figure.

The Prisoner

This striped underbust corset will add an immediate shot of glamour to any Halloween outfit. The black and white stripes make it a great addition to your escaped prisoner look but it also looks perfect as a pirate or sailor costume. Use your imagination and have fun with this versatile corset. Cotton twill makes this design breathable and comfortable.

Gothic Princess

Sometimes black is the only way to go at Halloween and this amazing full hips corset is the perfect base for your witch, cat or dark angel costume. The over-waist design provides an emphasized hourglass shape that is more defined than a traditional corset by creating volume around the hips. The sweeping neckline and duchess satin fabric add even more decadence to this stunning corset.

Who will you be this Halloween? Discover your perfect look at True Corset.

XXX Paulina

Recently, the Miss Teen USA pageant has been in the news for removing the swimsuit segment of its competition. This makes sense – seeing as the pageant is put on in order to award scholarship money to prospective students, and is for girls aged 14-19!

The swimsuit round of beauty pageants has been an intrinsic element of each event since their inception almost one hundred years ago in 1921, when the first Miss America pageant was held and advertised as a ‘bathers revue.’

The Miss America contest has always been upheld as a celebration of female empowerment and sisterhood, which seems baffling today when women are more likely to feel empowered by education and progressive values than what they look like in a garter belt. During the 1950’s however, pageants and the “Miss…” title were used to advertise products and concepts from National Hot Dog Week to the atomic bomb.

Atomic bomb, you might exclaim! I promise I’m not making this up. Nevada was keen to emphasise its modernity and advances in the nuclear arena during the 1950’s, and so Miss Atomic Bomb was born – combining two of the state’s calling cards – nuclear bombs and showgirls - because what doesn’t say “take a trip to Vegas” like atomic warfare and scantily clad females?!

There were countless seemingly bizarre efforts to cash in on the ‘sex sells’ bonanza; such as the 1954 Miss Magic Marker pageant, 1968’s celebration of librarians – Miss Archive, 1935’s illustrious Miss Idaho Potato, the West Side Fur Company’s 1960 Mink Queen contest and Miss National Catfish Queen of 1954.

All of these pageants had the same basic attributes in common – young female hopefuls, some thinly disguised product placement, and a heavy focus on strutting the stage in little more than underwear.

Zion Meat Company’s infamous Sausage Queen pageant in 1955 was held to celebrate National Hot Dog Week. Geene Courtney won the contest, and had the honour of being strung with raw sausages arranged artfully around her girdle. In a similar vein was the 1952 Frankfurter Queen – sponsored by the Hebrew National!

Occasionally pageants aimed to further an idea or promote a concept, as opposed to simply marketing sausages or fur pelts. Miss Psywar was one such pageant. Psywar, or psychological warfare, was not a new concept. The wartime efforts of the 1940’s needed not only covert psy-ops in order to beleaguer enemies, but also some good old fashioned morale boosting for the folks at home. So, the Miss Psywar pageant was born. Not much is known about it, besides the fact that it took place in Washington state in the 1940’s, and the little that can be gleaned from the surviving photographs – showing young women in in bullet bra style swimsuits, standing around horn loudspeakers!

And it wasn’t just the shady world of psychological warfare that had its own beauty contest – the NSA even had a pageant which ran in the 1950’s and early 1960’s – perhaps the National Security Agency is not all about brains, as evidenced in this photo below, showing smiling women in corseted dresses! Again, very little is known about this pageant – besides the fact that contestants represented numbers as opposed to states – and that it was held annually. It seems the NSA is not keen to share many more details of its dark beauty queen history!

And for our final foray into the world of downright strange beauty pageants of the past, I’ll leave you with this photograph of a young girl posing in knickers with a bag on her head – which at first glance looks rather questionable -  but is actually a shot from the 1930’s Miss Lovely Eyes pageant!

If I told you that you wouldn't get the body back that you had before pregnancy then you'd probably want to stop reading immediately. The thing is, in most cases a mother's body does change. You might well go back to your original dress size but you may go up a bra size or two, your shape might change and in many cases, it is a welcome change. You may find that you are ultimately curvier, sexier, stronger and more comfortable in your own skin.

There are a few things to consider when it comes to shaping up after the birth of a baby:

Give yourself time

After nine months of pregnancy - which can seriously deplete a women's nutrition and energy stores and giving birth which uses the same amount of energy as running a marathon - the last thing you want to do after having a baby is think about dieting and exercise. If you gave birth naturally then it is important to give your body time to heal, if you had a c-section then you'll need to rest properly for at least six weeks. It is easy to forget that a caesarian is classed as major surgery. It's not easy to rest properly when you have a newborn to look after, so take it easy on yourself and take the pressure off. It realistically takes a woman a whole year before her body is back to normal. It takes a good month for your womb to shrink back, and your abdominal muscles will need some nurturing too. In fact, pregnancy puts strain on the muscles in your back and puts a strain on your spine. It is worth giving yourself some breathing time before even thinking about exercising. Pregnancy hormones also cause ligaments to soften, which is great for opening the pelvis but can mean that it is worth avoiding any heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a good few weeks after the birth.

Be realistic

There is too much pressure on women to lose weight quickly after having birth. This is healthy both physically and mentally. Rather than feeling the pressure to lose weight, take the time you need, listen to your body and do your bit for the sisterhood by not succumbing to pressure. We all know that losing weight quickly is not healthy and often doesn't leave lasting results. If you are breastfeeding then your uterus will contract back quickly and you will also burn plenty of extra calories. Even if you are not breastfeeding, the energy it takes to look after a newborn will keep you burning calories. Rather than setting yourself unrealistic goals or aiming for an ideal weight, why not ensure you get outside in the fresh air each day and take baby for a lovely stroll (in the buggy or in a sling), why not cut out sugar and fill your plate with nutritious fruit and vegetables instead. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential in the early days and will give you all the energy you need to take care of your little one.

Be grateful for the body you have

Having a newborn is an incredible experience. You'll want to savour every moment, rather than feeling guilty about not eating properly or not exercising enough. Rather than hating your body, be grateful to it. That amazing body of yours created your beautiful baby. Besides, your little one will be much more comfortable cuddling up to a squishy tummy than rock hard abs. Whenever you look in the mirror, gently remind yourself that you are looking at the body that housed your incredible baby for 9 months. Who cares if you are a little out of shape? There will be plenty of time to shape up in the future.

Treat your body with respect

All this positive body talk is about being thankful to your body and not putting impossible pressure on it. It doesn't mean you can give yourself an excuse to pig out and sit around all day. After what feels like an eternity of sleepless nights then the odd comforting bowl of ice-cream at midnight or a snatched chocolate bar will help you to feel human again. However, it is important to stay active and eat a balanced diet. Respecting your body is all about taking the time to rest and heal, but also feeding your body with the nutrients it needs as well as staying active.

It's time to shift your body image

Being a good mum isn't about being skinny and beautiful. Your beauty will shine through in the love you had for your children. Your children will remember the time you spent with them, they'll be much happier with an attentive mum who plays with them than a mum who is constantly distracted by her own figure.

Consider dressing differently

Even the most positive of us have emotional wobbles sometimes. If you are feeling sensitive or need a little armour to help you through a social situation, then consider how you dress. Your pre-pregnancy wardrobe might be completely wrong for you now. Not only because your figure may have changed, but also because running around after children means your wardrobe will have different requirements. If you are still a little conscious of your post-baby bump, then opt for dresses that nip in at the ribcage and skim the hips. Corsets are brilliant for nights out and a wonderful way to show off your sexy new curves while keeping everything in. Breastfeeding mums might like to opt for under bust styles, whereas full corsets are perfect for a little more coverage. The structure of a corset will improve your posture, boosts your confidence and is the perfect way to give you a smooth silhouette.

Aim for a healthy, strong body

The more we obsess over our weight and looks, the more likely we are to raise children who do the same. Next time you find yourself moaning about your weight, think about the message you are giving your children. Even if they are too young to understand, it makes sense to get out of the habit of talking yourself down so you can become the positive role model that they need you to be. Focus on getting strong and healthy, rather than Hollywood thin. Once you've had chance to rest and recover from pregnancy and birth, you might like to throw in some exercises. Using a gym ball to support your lower back is a good idea in the early days, and will give you additional support when you do abdominal exercises such as crunches and sit-ups. You could even break out your old birthing ball if you used one. Many women like to use a waist trainer when they exercise, it is thought that these specially designed exercise corsets increase the amount of perspiration created during exercise. These corsets are ideal for shifting baby weight as they focus on the abdominal area which is often where most women are self-conscious. With a new baby, you won't have the time or energy to do long workouts, so focus instead of short bursts of activity. Planks are a brilliant exercise that engages the whole body. You can plank next to your baby while they enjoy some tummy time, or even lie them on their back and lean in for a kiss as you perform some push ups. They are lots of inventive ways to bond with your baby while you exercise.

Find other ways to boost self-esteem

If you are struggling to get used to your new body and need a little self-esteem boost then give yourself permission to do something special. Get a new haircut in a luxurious salon, the time to yourself is as valuable as the new do. Post-partum hair loss may have made your hair thinner, you might even want to choose something that doesn't take too much styling. Have a makeover and buy some new makeup. Again, you might need to change your beauty routine around now that you get so little time in the mornings. You could also buy a few new clothes. Looking through a wardrobe of clothes in your previous size will make anyone feel depressed. The best thing you can do is pack away your smaller clothes and buy some clothes that fit you now and make you feel fantastic. Dressing for your new figure will help to take the pressure off while you slowly build your new healthy, strong body.

Above all, treat your body like a temple. Reward it for the wonderful baby it gave you. There is too much body hatred around. Your body is beautiful and it is time you treated it that way.

Throughout history, the image of the damsel in distress has saturated the silver screen. A morbid fascination with the deaths of beautiful, untouchable people has been featured in movies, the media and fiction ever since these vehicles for story began. Researchers have long speculated on what it is that makes stories such as the murder of a beautiful young woman so compelling, and have surmised that it revolves around playing on the basic fears of society – that if our cherished and virginal young women aren’t safe, then what hope is there for the rest of us?

A certain kind of macabre infamy has long surrounded the deaths, murders and suicides of beautiful young women in Hollywood. Marilyn Monroe’s death is a perfect example of this – even to this day rumour and speculation swirls around her apparent suicide, with many steadfast in their belief that her death had a more sinister cause – linked to Presidents, shady doings and mob bosses.

There is an element of drama and intrigue attached to Old Hollywood, and this intertwines with the stories of tragedy and despair which have become almost mythical in their retelling. One such story is that of Peg Entwistle, a successful stage actress originally from Wales. Peg had achieved a great deal of favourable recognition acting in Broadway productions – in fact, seeing Peg perform in Henrik Ibsen’s The Wild Duck inspired Bette Davis to take up acting.

It was 1932, and Peg was 24 years old. At the height of the Great Depression, she went to Los Angeles to perform in a play called The Mad Hopes, which ran for a week at the Belasco Theatre. After this, she found her only credited film role – in Thirteen Women.

About a month before Thirteen Women was released, on the 18^th September 1932, Peg climbed to the top of a 14m tall ‘H’ – the first letter of the Hollywood sign - and threw herself off, into the ravine below. A woman walking in the area found her jacket, bag and a shoe, and looking inside the bag found a suicide note that read - "I am afraid, I am a coward. I am sorry for everything. If I had done this a long time ago, it would have saved a lot of pain. P.E.”

The suicide caused a sensationalised media reaction – due to Peg’s youth, beauty, and promise as an actress. The Hollywood sign at the time did not hold the same resonance as it does today – being an advertising ploy for a local real estate development called Hollywoodland. It had been built in 1923 and left there, although the ‘land’ at the end of the sign has since been removed. In recent years, Peg’s ghostly apparition has allegedly been spotted, a musical was produced in the UK about her life, and outdoor screenings of Thirteen Women have raised funds for suicide prevention charities.

Another suicide – this time further afield than Hollywood – has gone down in history, mostly due to the famous photograph captured at the time. Evelyn McHale was a young bookkeeper who lived in New York and had recently become engaged. When she was 23, she travelled to Rhodes, Pennsylvania to visit her fiancé, who saw no sign of distress or anything to indicate what she was about to do.

Evelyn travelled back to New York the next day, and jumped from the 86^th floor of the Empire State Building. A suicide note was found in the pocket of her coat, left neatly folded in the observatory. It read, “I don’t want anyone in or out of my family to see any part of me. Could you destroy my body by cremation? I beg of you and my family – don’t have any service for me or remembrance for me. My fiancé asked me to marry him in June. I don’t think I would make a good wife for anybody. He is much better off without me. Tell my father, I have too many of my mother’s tendencies.”

A photography student, Robert Wiles, happened to be passing minutes after her death, and snapped the now legendary photograph of her lying like a tragic sleeping beauty on the crushed wreckage of a car. Andy Warhol dubbed her “the most beautiful suicide,” and used the photo for one of his prints – Suicide (Fallen Body).

Deaths with a twist of fate also pique the imagination – and none has quite such a dash of fateful decision making as the death of actress Carole Lombard. When the US stepped into the WWII arena in 1941, Carole Lombard, then 33, arranged a war bond rally in her native state of Indiana. She travelled with her mother, Bess Peters, and Otto Winkler – the press agent for Clark Gable. After a successful rally, the three were due to travel back to Los Angeles by train, but Carole wanted to speed the process up and suggested they fly. Both her mother and Otto were afraid of flying, and both protested, keen to stick to the original plan.

Carole was adamant, and so they tossed a coin. Carole won the toss, the party of three flew, and their plane crashed into a peak of Potosi Mountain. All 22 on board were killed instantly.

No story about infamous deaths of beautiful young women would be complete without a mention of Los Angeles’ most renowned unsolved murder – that of the Black Dahlia. There have been books, movies, crackpot tales, conspiracy theorists, armchair investigators, TV show tributes and many a grisly LA ghost tour.

The Black Dahlia – or Elizabeth Short - was an aspiring actress trying to make it big in LA in the 1940’s. Her brutal murder shocked the city, and the publicity furore after her death took up column inches indefinitely. In fact, you can still find endless articles about her.

In January 1947, her body was found naked, mutilated and half decapitated on a vacant lot. Her face had been carved into an eerie, monstrous leer and her body had been posed with her hands behind her head. The local woman who discovered the body thought at first that it was a store mannequin.

The case was hugely sensationalised in the media, and as much mileage as possible given to anything that made it appear scandalous. Elizabeth had been wearing a black tailored suit when she was last seen, which the newspapers changed to a “tight skirt and sheer blouse.” She was described as “an adventuress” who “prowled Hollywood Boulevard.” Several newspapers posited that she was a prostitute, claims vehemently denied by her friends and family.

Perhaps the most shocking element of the media coverage was the lengths that Hearst newspaper The Los Angeles Examiner went to in order to obtain a ‘scoop.’ Reporters called Elizabeth’s mother, Phoebe Short, and told her that Elizabeth had won a beauty pageant. They fished for as much information about her daughter as they could, before they abruptly informed her that actually, her daughter had been murdered. Not stopping there, they then offered to pay for her flights and accommodation to bring her to LA to help with the police investigation. They flew her to LA, but kept her secreted away, far from the police, in order to protect their scoop from other media outlets.

Over the course of time, approximately 60 people have confessed to Elizabeth Short’s murder. So little is known about her that she has become an iconic victim – speculation about her runs riot, and yet she still remains an elusive, tragic figure. Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of the story and the ongoing fascination that surrounds it, is that unlike similar unsolved murder cases – take Jack the Ripper as an example - the Black Dahlia ‘nickname’ alludes to the victim, as opposed to the perpetrator. Although a large portion of the continuing mystery is due to the fact that the murder hasn’t been solved, there is as much mystery derived from the enigmatic victim herself.

In the late 1980’s, Bettie Page was nearing seventy and living in a group home just outside Los Angeles. Sitting around the TV with her fellow septuagenarian residents, she suddenly saw her younger self on the screen, in the midst of being featured on Entertainment Tonight.

For anyone with even a mild interest in 1950’s Hollywood, alternative retro culture or pin ups of yesteryear, Bettie Page is a household name. For Bettie herself however, her ongoing infamy was a total revelation.

Bettie Page is the antithesis of most 1950’s glamour icons. Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield, Kim Novak, Sophia Loren and others tapped into their sexuality to create a brand image for themselves, but no one was quite so forthright about it as Bettie.

Full frontal nudity was considered taboo in the post WWII 50’s, yet Bettie was a proponent of embracing sexuality and your body – treating both as something to be celebrated as opposed to something to hide away or repress. She is perhaps best known for her fetish and bondage inspired photo shoots, considered scandalous at the time, but the kind of imagery we see in anything from music videos to advertising billboards these days.

Bettie Mae Page was born in 1923 in Nashville, Tennessee. She married her first husband when she was 20, and they moved to San Francisco together. They divorced four years later, and Bettie moved to New York, determined to become an actress. Pin up modelling was something to bring in some cash, as it was for Monroe and many more before and after Bettie. She was discovered by a policeman called Jerry Tibbs, who was a photographer on the side, and was also the one that told her that her forehead was too high, and encouraged her to have bangs (a fringe to the English) cut in, to hide it. Her bangs formed part of her trademark look, a look which is still emulated today.

Bettie appeared in one of the first pin up calendars, posed for iconic photographers such as Irving Klaw and Bunny Yeager, and was one of the first Playboy centerfolds – Miss January 1955. She made most of the lingerie and costumes for her shoots herself, including now-famed outfits such as the leopard pattern ‘jungle girl’ costume immortalised in Yeager’s 1954 Jungle Bettie shoot, at the Africa USA park in Florida.

She was well known for the innovative and eye catching costumes that she designed for herself – anything from bullet bras to garter belts.

Bettie is often associated with S&M poses, but by her own admission, Irving Klaw’s work is the only example of any fetishist photography. She often posed nude, but never in sexually explicit content. Despite this, Bettie was implicated during the Kefauver hearings, set up by Senator Estes Kefauver that targeted indecent publications and pornography.

In 1959, Bettie disappeared from the limelight altogether. Her departure from modelling was so sudden that it led many to believe that she was dead. Even researching her now, with the entirety of the Internet at your fingertips, it is a hard slog to find definitive facts, dates and corroborations. Even Dita von Teese is quoted as saying, “Now you know everything about a celebrity, but Bettie, you know nothing about.” She is truly enigmatic.

We do know that in 1959, she converted to born again Christianity. She was determined to become a missionary in Africa, but the fact that she had been divorced twice meant that she was rejected. There is no record as to whether the church decided that the fact that she had posed naked with bullwhips was also a deciding factor!

She married again for a third time, but this marriage also disintegrated and ended in divorce. It was around this time that Bettie reported hearing voices. She reportedly stabbed her landlady 20 times, explaining that “God made her do it.” According to other reports, this was not the first time that she had stabbed someone. After stabbing her landlady, she was diagnosed with acute schizophrenia and spent 20 months in Patton State Hospital in California. After her release, she was arrested for assault after attacking another landlord, but was found not guilty by reason of insanity. She spent eight years living in a group home under state supervision, which was where she saw herself on television on Entertainment Tonight.

Bettie’s iconic status and unsurpassed career were marred by the fact that she was rarely rewarded for her hard work. She recalls once going to a photo shoot where the photographer encouraged her to bring all of the bikinis, costumes and lingerie she had made. He shot her in them and then used the photos to replicate the designs, selling them as Bettie Page Bikinis. He never offered her a cent, and remarkably, she never sued him. After she left modelling, she was penniless, and this continued until she was rediscovered in the 1990’s.

Incidentally, it was Hugh Hefner who realised at a dinner at the Playboy Mansion in 1993, to which she had been invited, that she wasn’t being represented by an agent and had no control over the rights to her image or brand. He organised representation for her, and saw that she received royalties.

Mark Mori, an esteemed documentary maker living in LA, began interviewing her in the late 1990’s. He kept the tapes for a few years, before eventually making a documentary in 2007, a year before Bettie’s death of a heart attack.

He says of her everlasting appeal as an icon for women to this day, "It has to do with not fitting into the dominant culture idea of what's good or sexy. I'm not a supermodel. I'm not Barbie. Whatever ideal it is that they are supposed to fit into. Whatever it is about Bettie, Bettie is the one they latch onto that allows them to feel comfortable in their own sexuality."

Comicon – searching for your inner-Geek

Vulcan Costume

Spring is in the air and all the young ladies have only one thing on their mind: Comicon. There are dozens of booths and attractions that are created to dazzle the senses and spark interest. This blogger and cosplay enthusiast will be in attendance is sunny downtown Phoenix, Arizona. I’ll be joined by people of all ages and from all walks of life.

This year the media guests include: Sean Astin (Lord of the Rings), Billie Piper (Doctor Who), Ralph Macchio (The Karate Kid), Lee Majors and James Marsters. The panels, the shopping, food trucks, beer garden and activities all create a fun pop culture event.

It’s time to embrace your inner villain, hero or character and try to dress for the job you want (and not the job you have, because when I did that at my regular job, I got sent home; I guess they don’t like cat woman).

This year, let the fun begin and join the community of cosplay starting with finding the right costume. I’ve decided to find my logical side with a Vulcan costume from True Corset paired with some minor accessories like pointy ears. It all pulled together beautifully and added a sexy kick to the idea that Captain James T. Kirk would have definitely approved of.

The beauty of a corset-based costume is the versatility that can be created with each piece, paired in a variety of ways can be worn differently extending their functionality. The natural confidence that corsets create, and the quality of the garments, make it stand out from the typical off-the- rack that has been seen and done a thousand times over.

But if you choose not to “Trek” yourself, there are also other costumes ready to wear that are available. A few popular options include:The Joker, Poison Ivy and many other “marvelous” characters. Cosplay Costumes

Phoenix Comicon will be held in the 24-acre Phoenix Convention Center on 3rd Street in Downtown Phoenix.