wearing a corset in public

[SoManyLovelyKnickers]

me and bf went to what katie did at the weekend and I think bf bought me a corset and bullet bra (I hid out in changing room so I wouldn't find out what he bought, but I have my suspicions as we both really liked those)

I'd like to get something suitably lovely to wear with it

Initially I though I'd look for a 50s style wide skirted dress for over it (indeed I already have oe that might work great) but then the assisstant said that with a corset she always wears it on top of her clothes as she reckons they are too pretty not to be shown off. Hmm. That set me thinking about whether that'd be something I'd be up for, just on very special occasions

the one he is getting me (I think) is a gorgeous red and black one, which sounds totally OTT but actually looks gorgeously vintage I think. Is an underbust one so I could wear with a little top and maybe a pencil or swing skirt, or even over a dress.

But OMG I am after all approaching 42 and while I think I look ok for it I am no twenty year old

so, two questions:

1. am I being utterly ridiculous even to contemplate such a thing?

1. assuming your answer to 1 is more along the "not at all honey you go for it" line rather than the "dear god almightly woman I've laughed so much I've wet myself at the prospect" line NO then any clothing you could recommend?

Thanks for the code ruby - think will measure myself up and get a pencil skirt and fitted blouse from there, I'll enjoy wearing that even if my nerve fails me on the corset!

although, I have a sneaking suspicion it will get worn out some evening. Dearest BF will make sure I feel a million dollars if I know him and that'll be enough for me.

It'll definately be worn with seamed stockings (as I just love those) and demure heels and I'll make sure to walk everywhere with my back to the wall so no-one can see me from behind and mistake me for a 20 year old

awh Kaloki - I hope you manage to save up enough to replace it soon, sounds like you enjoyed that corset...

what style dresses did you find worked best with the corset btw - I just don't know where all the laces and busk thingies go...

I absolutely adore my Vollers corset bought as a present by DH. I have however only worn it in the bedroom as I can't find the occassion (or nerve) to wear it in public, I'm 31 by the way.

It makes me feel absolutely wonderful and liberated when I have it on. I wish I could wear it out but haven't had the opportunity.

If I was going to wear it, I would probably wear a bolero over it to not be so in your face. Something like the one on the bottom left and right here maybe.

somany Loads of styles really, A-line or pencil skirted dresses are particularly good, as are fishtail skirts. Long dresses always look really spectacular with a corset.

Any neckline looks good with an underbust as well.

Ideally go with something with at least a slightly cinched waist to start off with, stops it bunching above and below the corset.

what about this dress under the corset? love the shape and style but is the neckline too high and there likely to be too much fabric under the corset?

bloomin shame viv of holloway are out of stock of the blouse I really want in black - any alternatives you girls can suggest? [I need links...not just "oooh a lovely fitted 1940s blouse" - sorry to seem an ungreatful witch but I've googled and googled til I just can't google no more...baybee]