The concept of this corset fell into place as I worked on it. The only thing that was made certain was the use of both gores and gussets. The pattern consists of five main panel pieces, three hip gussets/gores and three that sit on the underbust/ribcage. This made the shape of the corset rather curvy, which I am happy about.
The material of the corset itself is rather unusual. The strength layer is herringbone black coutil, but the floating liner is 100% cotton in black. The fashion layer is a bright solid red dupioni silk for the front and back panels, as well as all the gores and gussets. To add contrast I used a metallic/glitter effect lycra that I had left over for the rest of the panels. This is where I expected to have trouble, but when flatlined to coutil there wasn't a problem with wrinkling or stretch. To add an extra plus point it reminded me of fire, so I ran with the concept.
The addition of the couture lace is far from normal geometry, thus I decided to reflect it in both the x and y axis to help it fit in with the theme. This made the corset nicely symmetrical. Whilst out shopping for costume fabric I came across a really nice metallic embroidery thread in gold, and bias binding to match. Perfect - flossing. To some of the flossing I added red beads and kept some plain. The hardware is brass/gold to match. Lastly, rhinestones were added to the lace to mimic fire. I found working conventional geometry into this piece difficult but the boning channels, flossing, gores and gussets make up for it. I will definitely be working with more unusual patterns and materials in the future - I enjoy the challenge!
Good luck!
Olivia