Corset Lace Length Calculator: How to Calculate Lacing Length

Featured Image: Black Corset Laces

When you first begin wearing a corset, some of the elements can seem intimidating. How do you choose the right size or style? How do you lace it up, and how much lace do you need for a proper fit? Corseting is like any new habit. It may seem confusing at first, but once you understand the basics, you’ll see it’s really quite simple to master. 

Our corsets come ready to wear with standard laces appropriate for the size of garment you order. However, corseting is a uniquely personal experience. Once seasoned, your corset will fit your body as if it were custom-made for you. Changing the lacing color, material, or the method of lacing you use makes your corset that much more versatile and fun to wear. In some cases, you might need to replace a broken or worn-out lace. 

Whatever the reason for purchasing a new lace, making sure you get the right size for your garment is the priority. 

Calculating Your Lace Length

Every corset comes with a recommended lace length, but you might like to use a longer or shorter one for several reasons. If you prefer a little extra control or if you like the romantic appeal of large looping laces dangling behind you, you might prefer a longer lace. On the other hand, if you like to tuck your lace end in to help conceal it under clothing, a shorter lace might suit you better. 

Whether you prefer a little more or a little less lacing, these five steps will ensure you get the fit and effect you’re looking for. 

1. Prepare the Corset for Measuring

Lay your corset flat and expand the laces enough so that you can put the garment on comfortably. It is important to take this initial measurement at the beginning of the day, not after you’ve already worn the corset for several hours. Your waistline is marginally smaller after waist training. In the morning, it may take six extra inches of slack to put your corset on but only four inches to take it off several hours later. 

2. Measure the Gap

Use a tape measure to measure the widest point of the lacing gap. Carefully measure from the center of the left-side grommet to the center of the right-side grommet (or vice versa). 

Do not measure from the edge of the garment. The difference in the width between edges and the width between grommets could be several inches, depending on your corset style and body shape. For this example, let’s say you need 10 extra inches to get the corset off and on comfortably. 

3. Multiply

Multiply the gap measurement by the total number of grommets in your corset. For example, if your width measurement is 10 inches and your corset has 14 grommets on each side (28 total), multiply 10 by 28. In this case, the working measurement is 280 inches. 

4. Measure the Length

Measuring the length of the back of the corset allows for the extra inches of lace needed to cover the criss-cross angles of the lacing. If your corset is 14 inches high in the back, the total number is 28 — that’s two sides of 14 inches each. 

5. Add the Total

Add the number from step three to the number in step four. In our example, the final number is 280 inches + 28 inches = 306. Corset laces are sold by the yard. To convert the total inches into yards, divide by 36 (the number of inches in a yard). So, your calculation would be 306 / 36 = 8.5. 

In this example, you would have to decide whether you want to round down to 8 yards or up to nine. 

Finding the Perfect Lace Length for You

Changing your corset’s lacing is an easy way to improve fit and refresh the garment’s style. Swapping out lace colors and fabrics to complement your outfits will add versatility to your corset and your wardrobe. 

If you have questions about calculating lacing or any other questions about choosing and wearing a waist trainer, feel free to contact our friendly customer service team. At Glamorous Corset, we are always here to make certain you’re happy with your purchase. 

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