The Care & Preservation of Immortelle Steel-Boned Corsetry
Your Immortelle Corset is not a disposable garment, nor a novelty of fashion. It is a constructed form—engineered, balanced, and shaped with intent. Each Immortelle corset is created with steel boning, hand-set structure, and historically informed techniques that require thoughtful stewardship. Proper care ensures not only longevity, but the continued integrity of the silhouette itself.
On Wearing & Removal
A corset must always be laced and unlaced with patience.
When dressing, loosen the lacing fully before placing the corset upon the body. Never force the garment closed. Allow the corset to settle gradually as the laces are drawn in even measure, respecting the natural contours of the torso. Steel boning is designed to guide the figure—not to be strained or bent by haste.
When removing your corset, reverse the process. Loosen the lacing completely before lifting the corset away from the body. Never pull a corset off while still tightened, as this may warp the boning and distort the panels over time.
On Rest & Airing
After each wearing, allow your corset to rest.
Perspiration, body warmth, and movement are natural companions to wear. Once removed, lay the corset flat or hang it gently over a padded hanger in a well-ventilated space. This allows moisture to dissipate and preserves both fabric and structure.
Avoid enclosing a worn corset in a garment bag or drawer until it has fully aired.
On Cleaning
Steel-boned corsetry must never be submerged in water.
Immortelle corsets are not machine washable and should not be dry-cleaned unless expressly stated. Moisture can compromise steel boning, weaken internal layers, and disturb carefully set seams.
For minor surface marks, spot clean gently with a soft cloth and minimal moisture. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
For deeper cleaning, we recommend professional consultation with a textile conservator or couture-experienced cleaner familiar with structured historical garments.
On Storage
Proper storage is essential to preservation.
Corsets should be stored either:
Laid flat in a drawer with tissue padding to support the shape, or
Hung using sturdy ribbons or a padded hanger, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed.
Never fold a corset sharply, as this may permanently crease boning channels or outer fabric.
Store away from direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperature changes. Steel boning is resilient, but prolonged exposure to moisture may encourage oxidation.
On Travel & Transport
When traveling, corsets should be packed flat whenever possible. If folding is unavoidable, do so gently along natural seams and avoid pressure on the boning. Never compress a corset beneath heavy items.
Upon arrival, remove the corset from its case and allow it to relax and air before wearing.
On Longevity & Respect
Steel-boned corsetry is designed to last—often for decades—when treated with care. Over time, a well-worn corset will subtly adapt to its wearer, becoming more personal with each season.
Treat your corset as you would any heirloom garment: with intention, patience, and reverence for the craft.
