Another photo from CostumeCon in 2002, costume: Desert Ren.

The critical underpinning of the Renaissance torso was known as a pair of bodies – today we refer to this garment as a corset. The term “pair of bodies” might refer to an undergarment, or it could be the outer bodice, depending on the context. Some quilted bodies appear to have been unboned, but when used as a supportive undergarment, the “quilted bodies”, supported by cane, reeds, “bent” (bundles of hollow but sturdy grass), horn (for a very stiff silhouette), or whalebone, created the conical silhouette of the period. Keep in mind that this is not a lift and separate, curvaceous corset. It is a smash ‘em flat and confine to a cone corset.

You will need a busk and boning to create this garment, and the busk is available in another listing.

This pattern includes 14 pages of instructions with historical tips, and 1 pattern sheet. It is printed on bond paper, and enclosed in a reclosable plastic bag.

All sizes 2 – 30 are included..

No. 1500-4
Front or back opening. 
Cup size variations.
Deep or shallow front.
May be made with or without tabs.
Wide and pointed or narrow shoulder straps.
Boning and lacing suggestions and variations.
Removable busk (not included).
$10.00

No. 1700-8
14" long Hardwood Corset/Stays Busk
 with Information Sheet
Keeps the front of the corset upright & stiff
Fits patterns #1500-4, #1700-1 & #1810-3
$10.00

1550 - 1630 Quilted Pair of Bodies Pattern

Historical Sewing Patterns

The Mantua-Maker