Date: 2011
Origin: United Kingdom
Fabric: Silk dupion and cotton
Brand: Sparklewren
This dramatically proportioned, plunging overbust corset began its life as an elaborate toile for one of burlesque star Immodesty Blaize’s bespoke Sparklewren ensembles. It features an outer shell of two-toned silk dupion, a cotton lining, and is structured with a mix of flat and spiral steel boning. It opens at the rear with cotton lacing and metal eyelets. The corset is embellished with symmetrically applied, hand stitched, antique chantilly lace appliqué. The corset’s bone channels are extensively embroidered with intricate flossing motifs, providing a decorative historically inspired element that helps to secure the corset’s bones in place. A fine lace trims the neckline, and the garment is finished with contrasting black silk binding.
Jenni Hampshire began creating corsets under the moniker ‘Sparklewren’ in 2009. The designer’s background in Fine Art has resulted in a body of work akin to wearable sculpture. Historically inspired silhouettes and construction techniques are paired with lush, opulent embellishment and couture construction techniques. The brand specialised in one-of-a-kind heirloom garments, with each garment taking weeks of carefully considered embellishment and craftsmanship.
Kindly loaned by Lucy Emke
