Folkwear - PDF Sewing Pattern - 267 M'Lady's Corset

The Folkwear 267 M'Lady's Corset PDF Sewing Pattern is an Elizabethan-inspired corset pattern for women, in sizes Extra Small to 3X-Large. Based on supporting garments worn during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, it offers two historical styles: a square-neck version representative of upper-class women at royal courts, and a scoop-neck version inspired by garments worn by working-class women.

Both versions feature the characteristic Elizabethan dropped waistline, forming a V at the centre front, and wide-set shoulder straps that create the impression of a smaller waist. Princess seams make it easier to achieve a personalised fit for the contemporary wearer.

The square-neck corset laces at the back using purchased or handmade eyelets, with instructions for making eyelets included in the pattern. Its adjustable shoulder straps lace through eyelets at the front. The scoop-neck corset fastens at the front with purchased hook-and-eye tape and has a peplum inspired by the waistline tabs found on 16th-century doublets and corsets.

You can also adjust the placement of the boning to achieve your preferred level of stiffness. The pattern includes important notes about corset construction, with further guidance on the supporting inner layers and boning.

Historically, stiffened undergarments helped create the slender, elongated upper-body silhouette favoured during the Elizabethan era. These garments were worn by both men and women, and early corset-makers included men's tailors and armour-makers. This pattern is a useful choice for historical dress, Elizabethan costume and anyone interested in making a structured period-inspired corset.

For the outer layer, choose a stable medium to heavy-weight fabric that does not drape, such as brocade, damask, satin or linen. The lining can use the same fabric or a slightly lighter-weight equivalent.

Yardage chart (.pdf)

The PDF pattern has files for copy shop (36 and A0), print at home, instructions, and detailing.