"Post Rummage Sale" Sale! Fashion Show Samples

July 22, 2015, 6:37 pm

≫ Next: "Post Rummage Sale" Sale: Archive, Consignment, & Cinderella Corsets

≪ Previous: Rummage Sale Update: Dollymop Sample Sale!

$

0

0

If you live out of town, out of the country, or just plain couldn't make it to the Rummage Sale on Sunday, Dark Garden has a treat for you! We are listing our remaining consignment, archive, and "Cinderella" corsets and ensembles for our online audience. Today showcases our remaining Dollymop for Dark Garden fashion show samples. We'll also be cross-posting these to Instagram. To purchase these pieces, give us a ring at 415-431-7684. We can answer additional questions about the corset you're eyeing, process a payment, and prepare it for shipment. These items will only be on sale through next Wednesday, July 29, 2015. All items are sold as-is and first come, first serve: no holds.

Dollymop for Dark Garden Fashion Show Samples

C-KAL-533 Photo © Joel Aron

C-KAL-533 Photo © Joel Aron

Call with SKU: C-KAL-533
Size: 22"
Original price: $2800 - Sale price: $2000
2013 collection. Olive wool Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with harness, skirt, and corset.

C-KAL-537

Call with SKU: C-KAL-537
Size: 22"
Original price: $1850 - Sale price: $1250
2014 collection. Teal beaded Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with corset and floor-length fishtail skirt.

C-KAL-538

Call with SKU: C-KAL-538
Size: 22"
Original price: $2250 - Sale price: $1800
2014 collection. Teal fringe Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with corset and floor-length fishtail skirt.

C-KAL-540 Photo © John Carey

Call with SKU: C-KAL-540
Size: 22"
Original price: $3300 - Sale price: $2550
2015 collection. Deco sheer Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with corset and floor-length fishtail skirt.

C-KAL-541 Photo © Shoot That Klown

Call with SKU: C-KAL-541
Size: 22"
Original price: $3200 - Sale price: $2100
2015 collection. Gold sequin beaded Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with corset and floor-length fishtail skirt.

C-KAL-542 Photo © Shoot That Klown

Call with SKU: C-KAL-542
Size: 22"
Original price: $3200 - Sale price: $2100
2015 collection. Gold sequin beaded Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with corset and floor-length fishtail skirt.

C-KAL-543 Photo © Herm Pugay

Call with SKU: C-KAL-543
Size: 22"
Original price: $1700 - Sale price: $1000
2012 collection. Black shimmer Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with corset, drape, and floor-length skirt.

C-KAL-544

Call with SKU: C-KAL-544
Size: 22"
Original price: $3200 - Sale price: $2100
2015 collection. Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with embellished corselette and two sparkle skirts in nude.

C-KAL-546 Shown with Sweetheart Victorian corset

C-KAL-546 Shown with Lancer corset

Call with SKU: C-KAL-546
Size: 19", 23"
Original price: $5800 - Sale price: $1250
"Victorians" mix & match ensemble. Petticoat, overskirt, bustle drape, waist sash, and two corsets: 19" Sweetheart Victorian with straps, 23" Dollymop Lancer corset. Some discoloration. Excellent for costuming.

C-KAL-548 Photo © Samantha Guss

Call with SKU: C-KAL-548
Size: 23"
Original price: $1800 - Sale price: $600
Prototype. Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with bow jacket, corset, and bloomers.

C-KAL-549 Photo © Lydia Chen

Call with SKU: C-KAL-549
Size: 23"
Original price: $950 - Sale price: $600
Prototype. Dollymop for Dark Garden ensemble with bloomers and corset with bows.

C-KAL-551

Call with SKU: C-KAL-551
Size: XS
Original price: $850 - Sale price: $450
Dollymop for Dark Garden bolero jacket with pleated trim and tie front. Same style as above; darker fabric.

C-KAL-553 Photo © Audrey Penven

Call with SKU: C-KAL-553
Size: XS/S
Original price: $700 - Sale price: $150
Black silk crystalized high neck harness/dickie.

C-KAL-554 Photo © John Carey

Call with SKU: C-KAL-554
Size: 22"
Original price: $3100 - Sale price: $2500
Dollymop for Dark Garden leopard print high-back corset ensemble with fit & flare skirt.

C-KAL-559 Photo © Joel Aron

Call with SKU: C-KAL-559
Size: 21
Original price: $500 - Sale price: $175
Dollymop for Dark Garden silver overlay underbust corset. Corset only.

C-KAL-561 Photo © Joel Aron

Call with SKU: C-KAL-561
Size: 22
Original price: $775 - Sale price: $400
2012 collection. Dollymop for Dark Garden black silk corset with crystals. Corset only.

---

"Post Rummage Sale" Sale: Archive, Consignment, & Cinderella Corsets

July 29, 2015, 1:25 pm

≫ Next: Dark Garden Boutique Now Open 7 Days a Week

≪ Previous: "Post Rummage Sale" Sale! Fashion Show Samples

$

0

0

If you live out of town, out of the country, or just plain couldn't make it to the Rummage Sale on Sunday, Dark Garden has a treat for you! We are listing our remaining consignment, archive, and "Cinderella" corsets and ensembles for our online audience. Today showcases our remaining standalone corsets from archive and consignment. We'll also be cross-posting these to Instagram.

Photo © Joel Aron

To purchase these pieces, give us a ring at 415-431-7684 during our business hours. All times below are PST.

Monday: 11am - 5pm

Tuesday: 11am - 5pm

Wednesday: 11am - 5pm

Thursday: 11am - 7pm

Friday: 11am - 8pm

Saturday: 11am - 8pm

Sunday: 11am - 5pm

  

We can answer additional questions about the corset you're eyeing, process a payment, and prepare it for shipment. These items will only be on sale through next Wednesday, August 5, 2015. All items are sold as-is and first come, first serve: no holds. These corsets, as well as the previously listed fashion show ensembles, are also available at our 321 Linden St. boutique through that date. If you require a corset to be shipped to you, domestic shipping starts at $25.

Standalone Corsets: Archive, Consignment, & "Cinderella"

A-RS-175 $250 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-175
Size: S/M
Bust: 33", Waist: 22"
Original price: $450 - Sale price: $250
"Boob Top" in multi-colored brocade with adjustable lacing at front, back, and sides.

A-RS-178  $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-178
Size: 19"
Underbust: 28.5"• High Hip: 32"• Waist to Underbust: 5"• Waist to Lap: 5.75"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $600
Arch Rival underbust corset in ivory brocade with beading, bows, and rosettes. Lovely vintage bridal look with a very curvy shape. In very good condition.

C-RS-033  $550 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-033
Size: 19.5"
Underbust: 26.5"• High Hip: 28"• Waist to Underarm: 3.25"• Waist to Lap: 3.25"
Original price: $1,1000 - Sale price: $550
Waspie underbust corset in red silk satin. 10 panels, bespoke fit. Very curvaceous, asymmetric shape (left hip & shoulder high), silk lining, polyester waist tape, underbusk, spiral bones. Barely worn. Perfect for a tightlacer or waist trainer.

C-RS-029 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-029
Size: 19.75"
Bust: 32"• High Hip: 31"• Waist to Underarm: 8"• Waist to Lap: 6.5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $600
Sweetheart overbust corset in black sueded silk with deep fuchsia bone casings and binding. In good condition with only minor signs of wear in fabric, and contoured bones.

C-RS-025 $400 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-025
Size: 20"
Original price: $675 - Sale price: $400
Bust: 29"• High Hip: 28"• Waist to Underarm: 7.25"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Sweetheart overbust corset in soft white chrysanthemum brocade. Perfect for bridal. In like new condition.

A-RS-156 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-156
Size: 20"
Bust: 30"• High Hip: 29"• Waist to Underarm: 7.5"• Waist to Lap: 4.5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $700
Aziza overbust corset with straps in green brocade. Excellent condition. Newly replaced binding and bone casings.

A-RS-172 $500 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-172
Size: 20"
Bust: 27.5"• High Hip: 29"• Waist to Underarm: 8.25"• Waist to Lap: 5.75"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $500
Alyscia overbust corset in black satin. 8 panels. In good condition.

C-RS-026 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-026
Size: 20"
Bust: 28.5"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underarm: 6.5"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $600
Princess Victorian overbust corset with spaghetti straps in silver paisley brocade. In very good condition.

Call with SKU: C-KAL-558
Size: 20"
Bust: 30"• High Hip: 27"• Waist to Underarm: 6.75"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $2000 - Sale price: $375
Baroque overbust corset in black leather with white leather applique. Closed front. In good condition.

A-RS-161  $60 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-161
Size: 21"
Underbust: 28"• High Hip: 32.5"• Waist to Underbust: 5.5"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1100 - Sale price: $600

High Back Pointed Victorian underbust corset with straps in pink plaid taffeta. Designed to lace closed. In very good condition; binding has slight wear, esp. on corners.

C-RS-018 $500 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-018
Size: 21"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $500
Bust: 33"• High Hip: 35"• Waist to Underarm: 7.25"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"

Sweetheart Longline overbust corset in heavy gold and brown tapestry brocade. In acceptable condition with some discoloration on black bone casings and lining; no signs of wear on body fabrics.

C-RS-003  $800 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-003
Size: 21"
Underbust: 26.5"• High Hip: 30.5"• Waist to Underbust: 4.5"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $800
Underbust Victorian corset in gorgeous black wool sateen. Would make a wonderful waist training corset for fall and winter, or colder climates. In excellent condition with no signs of wear and lightly contoured bones.

A-RS-168  $500 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-168
Size: 21"
Underbust: 27"• High Hip: 28"• Waist to Underbust: 4.75"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $500
Pointed Victorian underbust corset in ivory brocade with pink lace trim. In good condition with no major signs of wear.

A-RS-164 $150 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-164
Size: 22"
Bust: 31.5"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underarm:  7"• Waist to Lap:  4.5"
Original price: $1500 - Sale price: $150
Victorian overbust corset with applique, hand painted in shimmery blue with trim on neckline. Perfect for an Elsa-inspired costume. In acceptable condition; fashion fabric/paint has cracked along one seam and interior lining shows wear with discoloration.

A-RS-167 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-167
Size: 22"
Bust: 30"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underarm: 7.25"• Waist to Lap: 4.5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $600

Victorian overbust corset with scoop neckline in dark purple floral silk taffeta. In good condition. Binding shows some wear at corners.

C-RS-021 $675 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-021

Size: 22"
Bust: 33"• High Hip: 31"• Waist to Underarm: 8.25"• Waist to Lap: 5.25"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $675
Sweetheart overbust corset with softly scooped neckline in lilac floral taffeta. This neckline is a hybrid between our Sweetheart and Victorian styles. In very good condition, fabric feels softly broken in but shows no signs of wear.

A-RS-150 $500 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-150
Size: 22"
Bust: 30"• High Hip: 32.5"• Waist to Underarm: 8.5"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $500

Alyscia overbust corset in silver silk with lace overlay. In acceptable condition with newly replaced binding and lacing. Lace has patches of wear throughout; lining has ink stains and a few bones have worn through their channels at the lining.

C-RS-010 $1000 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-010
Size: 22"
Bust: 33"• High Hip: 34.5"• Waist to Underarm: 8.25"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $1000
Aziza overbust corset with straps in burgundy with black and gold lace overlay. Includes back panel. In excellent condition.

C-RS-051 $200 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-051
Size: 22"
Original price: $1100 - Sale price: $200
Underbust: 28.5"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underbust: 5"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"

Pointed Victorian underbust corset in marigold vinyl. In acceptable condition with wear on PVC binding and some discoloration on vinyl.

CS-RS-049 $300 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-049
Size: 22"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $300
Bust: 35"• High Hip: 34"• Waist to Underarm: 8.75"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"

Aziza overbust corset with straps in silver satin. Comes with black corset bag. In very good condition.

C-RS-028  $800 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-028
Size: 22"
Bust: 32"• High Hip: 32"• Waist to Underarm: 7.5"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"
Original price: $2000 - Sale price: $375
Empress overbust corset in bronze and black brocade. In very good.

A-RS-178  $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-045
Size: 22"
Original price: $1100 - Sale price: $300
Underbust: 33"• High Hip: 33"• Waist to Underbust: 5"• Waist to Lap: 6"

Arch Rival underbust corset in silver satin. Excellent costuming and cosplay opportunities. In very good condition with no obvious signs of wear.

C-RS-044 $200 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-044
Size: 22"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $200
Bust: 34"• High Hip: 34"• Waist to Underarm: 9.5"• Waist to Lap: 5"

Sweetheart overbust corset in silvery grey floral taffeta. Comes with matching corset bag and 6 narrow detachable garters. In good condition with mild discoloration.

C-RS-013 $800 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-013
Size: 23"
Bust: 34"• High Hip: 32"• Waist to Underarm: 8.5"• Waist to Lap: 6"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $800
Sweetheart "Batty" overbust corset with points in burgundy satin with black lace overlay, bone casings, and binding. Includes back panel. In excellent condition with no visible signs of wear; binding is in perfect condition.

A-RS-173 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-173
Size: 23"
Bust: 36"• High Hip: 34"• Waist to Underarm: 8"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $1500 - Sale price: $700

Aziza overbust corset with straps in purple metallic leather with applique. In very good condition; leather is fairly stiff.

A-RS-177 $800 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-177
Size: 23"
Bust: 33"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underarm: 7"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $800
Alyscia overbust corset in pewter wool plaid with exquisitely pattern matched seams. Back panel included. Brand new condition.

Call with SKU: A-RS-200
Size: 23"
Bust: 33"• High Hip: 31"• Waist to Underarm: 8"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $700
Alyscia overbust corset in cognac brown leather. Identical to sample photographed above; harness sold separately. Brand new condition with slight flaw in stitching tension.

C-RS-042 (corset) $400 and C-RS-041 (cuffs/collar) $50 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-042 (corset)
Size: 24"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $400 corset, $50 cuffs and collar
Underbust: 30.5"• High Hip: 34"• Waist to Underbust: 5"• Waist to Underarm: 8.75"• Waist to Lap: 6"

High Back Pointed Victorian underbust corset in red glitter vinyl. Designed to lace closed. Comes with black satin bag. Matching collar and cuffs sold separately. In very good condition.

Call with SKU: C-RS-041 (cuffs and collar)
Size: Medium
Original price: $125 - Sale price: $50
Wrist cuffs and collar in red glitter vinyl. Great for cosplay. Matching corset sold separately. In very good condition.

C-RS-046 $500 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-046
Size: 23"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $500
Bust: 34"• High Hip: 34"• Waist to Underarm: 9.5"• Waist to Lap: 5"

Princess Victorian overbust corset in supple black leather with spaghetti straps. Comes with corset bag in black satin and leather. In very good condition.

A-RS-160 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-160
Size: 24"
Underbust: 31.5"• High Hip: 35"• Waist to Underbust: 5.75"• Waist to Lap: 6"
Original price: $1050 - Sale price: $600

Underbust Edwardian corset in wedgewood silk satin and bird motif brocade with buttercream piping on binding. In excellent condition.

C-RS-035 $400 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-035
Size: 24"
Underbust: 27.5"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underbust: 3.5"• Waist to Lap: 3.75"
Original price: $685 - Sale price: $400
Corselette underbust corset in prussian blue silk with silvery lace overlay. 8 panels. In very good condition.

A-RS-179 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-179
Size: 24"
Bust: 34"• High Hip: 30"• Waist to Underarm: 7.5"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $600

Sweetheart overbust corset in red silk with cranberry pink bone casings and binding. Good condition.

C-RS-015 $425 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-015
Size: 24"
Bust: 35"• High Hip: 34"• Waist to Underarm: 9.5"• Waist to Lap: 5.75"
Original price: $520 - Sale price: $425
Sweetheart overbust corset in black silk satin with garter loops. 8 panels. Identical in style to the corset shown above, differs in size only. Very good condition.

C-RS-059 $1000 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-059
Size: 24"
Bust: 34"• Full Hip: 38"• Waist to Underarm: 8.5"• Waist to Hem: 24"
Original price: $2000 - Sale price: $1000
Sweetheart overbust corset mini dress in emerald green cherry blossom brocade. Amazing showpiece. In excellent condition.

A-RS-180 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-180
Size: 24.5"
Bust: 32"• High Hip: 33"• Waist to Underarm: 9"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $700
Sweetheart overbust corset in black dragon motif brocade. In excellent condition.

C-RS-011 $400 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-011
Size: 25"
Underbust: 28"• High Hip: 30.5"• Waist to Underbust: 3.5"• Waist to Lap: 4"
Original price: $500 - Sale price: $400

Corselette underbust corset in unusual printed fabric with silk binding and bone casings, and lace trim. In very good condition with a few stray fibers. Closed front.

A-RS-169 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-169
Size: 25"
Bust: 35"• High Hip: 34.5"• Waist to Underarm:  6"• Waist to Lap:  6"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $700
Aziza overbust corset in rust red silk dupioni with newly replaced black brocade binding. Buskless. In excellent condition.

A-RS-151 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-151
Size: 25"
Bust: 38"• High Hip: 33.5"• Waist to Underarm: 8.25"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $750
Aziza overbust corset with adjustable straps in red silk satin. Brand new.

A-RS-162 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-162
Size: 25"
Bust: 37"• High Hip: 36"• Waist to Underarm:  8.5"• Waist to Lap: 5.25"
Original price: $1500 - Sale price: $600
Sweet Rival overbust corset with built-in garters in deep red leather with faux leather black flame applique. In acceptable condition with wear on applique and at underarms. Red is much darker than shown in photograph.

A-RS-186 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-186 SOLD
Size: 25"
Underbust: 32"• High Hip: 39"• Waist to Underbust: 5"• Waist to Lap: 7"
Original price: $900 - Sale price: $700
Underbust Victorian corset in vintage pink silk with petersham binding, back panel, and loops for detachable garters. Perfect for waist training, stealthing, and foundation wear. Lovely curvaceous shape with dramatic hip spring. Brand new.

A-RS-154 $750 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-154

Size: 26"

Bust: 36.5"• High Hip: 35"• Waist to Underarm: 8"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"

Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $750

Aziza overbust corset with adjustable straps in red/ violet shot dupioni with black satin bone casings and binding. Good condition.

A-RS-176 $450 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-176
Size: 26"
Bust: 35"• High Hip: 35"• Waist to Underarm: 8"• Waist to Lap: 5.25"
Original price: $620 - Sale price: $450

Sweetheart overbust corset in black leather. 8 panels. In very good condition; lining shows some discoloration.

A-RS-165 $600 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-165
Size: 26"
Bust: 37"• High Hip: 36.5"• Waist to Underarm: 7.5"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $600

Sweet Rival overbust corset with attached garters in champagne satin with black lace overlay. In good condition; well broken in with some wear on the binding.

A-RS-171 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-171

Size: 26"
Bust: 36.5"• High Hip: 34.5"• Waist to Underarm: 9"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $700

Sweetheart overbust corset in black dragon motif brocade. 8 panels. In very good condition and comfortably broken in.

A-RS-181 $700 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: A-RS-181

Size: 26"
Bust: 31"• High Hip: 32.5" • Waist to Underbust: 4"  • Waist to Underarm: 7.25"• Waist to Lap: 4.75"
Original price: $1200 - Sale price: $700

Adelaide overbust corset in ivory mesh with black silk satin cups. Very full bust and slim hip (shown laced with wide gap at hips), originally fit on an AMAB body. Brand new.

C-RS-008 $445 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-008

Size: 27"
Bust: 35"• High Hip: 36"• Waist to Underarm: 8"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $650 - Sale price: $455

Sweetheart overbust corset in ivory silk satin with lace trim. 8 panels. Excellent condition, slight mark in lining.

C-RS-017 $560 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-017
Size: 28"
Bust: 42"• High Hip: 35"• Waist to Underarm: 9.5"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $900 - Sale price: $560
Sweetheart overbust corset in buff mini floral brocade with pink lace trim, extra boning, and detachable garters. 8 panels. In excellent condition.

C-RS-012 $320 Call 715-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-012
Size: 30"
Bust: 39"• High Hip: 41"• Waist to Underarm: 8.5"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $380 - Sale price: $320
Sweetheart overbust corset in black poplin with back panel. 8 panels. In very good condition.

C-RS-150 $400 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-150
Size: 30"
Bust: 40"• High Hip: 40.5"• Waist to Underarm: 8.25"• Waist to Lap: 5.5"
Original price: $500 - Sale price: $400
Sweetheart overbust corset in buff mini floral brocade with pale blue laces. 8 panels. In excellent condition.

C-RS-009 $630 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-009
Size: 32"
Bust: 40"• High Hip: 44.5"• Waist to Underarm: 8.5"• Waist to Lap: 5"
Original price: $1000 - Sale price: $630
Sweetheart Longline overbust corset in purple and gold dragon motif brocade. Includes narrow detachable garters. In very good condition with no obvious signs of wear.

C-RS-037 $40 Call 415-431-7684

Call with SKU: C-RS-037
Size: Medium
Original price: $68 - Sale price: $40
Wrist cuffs in red patent leather with PVC trim. Great for cosplay. In acceptable condition, shedding on PVC trim.

Dark Garden Boutique Now Open 7 Days a Week

August 17, 2015, 2:14 pm

≫ Next: Autumn & Mr. Pearl at the Oxford Conference of Corsetry

≪ Previous: "Post Rummage Sale" Sale: Archive, Consignment, & Cinderella Corsets

$

0

0

Dark Garden black silk garter belt Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © John Carey

We are excited to announce that the Dark Garden boutique at 321 Linden St., San Francisco will be open on Wednesdays from 11am to 5pm. It has been our policy previously to be open by appointment only on Wednesdays, allowing us to take fitting and pick up appointments while maintaining full production. This change means that Dark Garden will be open to the public seven days a week through the holiday season.

Beginning August 1st, our boutique hours are as follows:

Sunday through Wednesday: 11am to 5pm

Thursday: 11am to 7pm

Friday & Saturday: 11am to 8pm

Dark Garden couture corset gown Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © Joel Aron

Come visit us! Our lovely attendants will be happy to fit you in a corset, answer your questions about waist training, and schedule appointments for bridal couture, all at 321 Linden St., San Francisco, CA 94102. We can also be contacted by phone during business hours at 415-431-7684.

Dark Garden Risqué Sweetheart Photo © Chris Gaede

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Autumn & Mr. Pearl at the Oxford Conference of Corsetry

August 25, 2015, 5:12 pm

≫ Next: Introducing: Pearl for Dark Garden

≪ Previous: Dark Garden Boutique Now Open 7 Days a Week

$

0

0

Here at Dark Garden, August heralds the beginning of our busiest time of year. There is no better way for us to kick off the season than attending the Oxford Conference of Corsetry. Last year, our proprietress Autumn Adamme was the keynote speaker at OCOC '14. Autumn had such a delightful time being surrounded by like minded individuals that she encouraged a very special colleague to join her in attending this year's event. Mr. Pearl, the world famous corsetier and couturier, will be doing a Q&A session for roughly 50 enthralled corsetmakers from across the globe. Autumn will be returning to teach a workshop, sharing methods for pattern matching fabrics. This is a signature technique at Dark Garden, and an essential marker of quality in a high-end corset.

Autumn Adamme in her "Pearl" overbust corset Created while working with Mr. Pearl in his Parisian atelier last summer Photo © Joel Aron

Dark Garden's relationship with Mr. Pearl began through our mutual muse, Dita Von Teese, who frequently performs her famous burlesque routines in corsets made by both Mr. Pearl and Dark Garden. Thanks to Dita, Autumn had the unique opportunity to work alongside Mr. Pearl, and last summer she spent a month with him in his Parisian atelier.

Dita Von Teese in a Mr. Pearl corset

Though she doesn't like to brag about it, Autumn is known within the corsetmaking community as the "Godmother of Modern Corsetry." Autumn and Mr. Pearl are an absolute dream team; it's a match made in corset heaven! We look forward to future collaborations with Mr. Pearl which are currently in the works. Also teaching this year is Ian Frazer Wallace of The Whitechapel Workhouse, keynote speaker from OCOC's inaugural event in 2013. Ian will be leading a workshop on Integral Corsetry, a concept which is a personal favorite of mine. OCOC has built on its successes each year, so it is no surprise that this year is slated to be the best yet!

2014 and 2013 Keynote Speakers at OCOC14: Autumn Adamme & Ian Frazer Wallace were fast friends as soon as they met at last year's event!

Though this year's conference is fully booked, we encourage you to follow along with the proceedings by watching the #ococ15 hashtag on Instagram. You can also follow @darkgardencorsetry, @missdarkgarden, @whitechapelworkhouse and @misterpearlofficial directly.

Dark Garden Dollymop Overbust Photo © Joel Aron

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Introducing: Pearl for Dark Garden

September 14, 2015, 4:21 pm

≫ Next: Get Feisty at the Folsom St. Fair with Dark Garden

≪ Previous: Autumn & Mr. Pearl at the Oxford Conference of Corsetry

$

0

0

We have a very exciting announcement for you today. We are thrilled to officially confirm that beginning in November, Mr. Pearl corset will be accepting commissions through Dark Garden. Mr. Pearl is renowned worldwide as the foremost corsetmaker for couture collections and this represents a virtually unheard of opportunity.

Mr. Pearl has previously created many corsets for such famed couturiers as Jean Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler, Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, and Christian Dior. Dark Garden's relationship with Mr. Pearl began through our mutual muse, Dita Von Teese, who frequently performs her famous burlesque routines in corsets made by both Mr. Pearl and Dark Garden. Dita introduced our proprietress Autumn Adamme to Mr. Pearl, and last summer she spent a month with him in his Parisian atelier.

Autumn Adamme in her "Pearl" overbust corset Created while working with Mr. Pearl in his Parisian atelier last summer Photo © Joel Aron

Naturally we at Dark Garden could not be any more ecstatic to have Mr. Pearl joining our design team. Whether you are seeking the most luxe corset imaginable or a complete couture ensemble, Mr. Pearl works best when unconstrained by budget. Commissions will be limited to just a handful per year, to best allow him to focus on executing each design to its maximum potential. Our staff of a dozen highly skilled stitchers will also be working under Mr. Pearl to bring his design ideas to life.

Dita Von Teese performing in one of her Mr. Pearl couture corset ensembles.

To schedule an appointment with Mr. Pearl or for additional information about this collaboration, call our boutique at 415-431-7684 no earlier than October 20. Before this date, we will not have his appointment availability on our calendar. We recommend that you undertake all consultations and fittings for Mr. Pearl couture in-person. If you will be traveling to our San Francisco boutique for this experience, please be sure to book your appointments with us before your book your flight! We'll see you at 321 Linden St., San Francisco.

Dark Garden "Grable" Photo © Mask Photo

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Get Feisty at the Folsom St. Fair with Dark Garden

September 22, 2015, 2:12 pm

≫ Next: The Night Circus Returns This Halloween

≪ Previous: Introducing: Pearl for Dark Garden

$

0

0

Dark Garden Dollymop overbust in Signature Collection pinstripe Model: Anat K. Black Photo © Switch Thomas

It's that time again! Things are heating up in San Francisco and this Sunday the Folsom Street Fair will be upon us. If you're not familiar with the event, I encourage you to check out their amazing (NSFW) teaser video. Once again, we'll be closing up shop at 321 Linden St. for the day and instead running our famous booth at the fair. But this time, the red-light event will have a red carpet twist.

Folsom Street Fair

Sunday, September 27, 2015, 11am-6pm

Folsom between Juniper & 10th St.

San Francisco, CA

We will have a full complement of samples and stock for fitting and day-of sales. However, rather than a free-for all, we invite you to step into the red carpet line. For $20, you'll receive a focused personal fitting with a trained member of our staff, and a free Dark Garden t-shirt. Then we invite you to stand with one of our sexy spokesmodels and have your picture taken.

Dark Garden "Sweetheart" in Signature Collection red silk-satin Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © John Carey

Should you require even greater personal attention, we will also be scheduling appointments for bespoke design consultations at the fair. These will take place at our 321 Linden St., San Francisco boutique, pending designer availability.

Dark Garden "Cincher" in red leather with buckle Shown with Dita Von Teese overwire bra and garter belt Photo via @DarkGardenCorsetry on Instagram

Of course, you're also quite welcome to stop by our boutique before the Fair to pick up a new corset and some fabulous accessories to match! Whether you're in need of luxe vintage stockings to wear with your stilettos, one of our super-hot finishing belts, or a pointed corset collar, we'd love to help you get set up in style. We have a few beautiful red leather corsets with buckles on the floor, and just began to stock gorgeous strappy harnesses by English lingerie designer Karolina Laskowska. If you have any questions about Dark Garden corsets or our booth at the fair, give us a ring at 415-431-7685 during business hours.

Dark Garden "Grable" bespoke corset with Karolina Laskowska "Lidia" harness

Ciao!
~Marianne

Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

The Night Circus Returns This Halloween

October 29, 2015, 11:10 am

≫ Next: Bespoke Corset FAQ

≪ Previous: Get Feisty at the Folsom St. Fair with Dark Garden

$

0

0

Dollymop for Dark Garden evening ensemble Model: Tuesday Blues Photo © Aaron Fagerstrom

With the blessing of author Erin Morgenstern, Dark Garden's Autumn Adamme and Paul Nathan invite you to join us for a night you will never forget. Dark Garden presents: The Night Circus, a place of magic and endless possibilities. As you might imagine, Halloween is our favorite holiday here in corset heaven, and we like to celebrate it in style.

Dark Garden Presents: The Night Circus

October 31, 2015

9pm - 3am

Private Location

Tickets: $80

Dollymop for Dark Garden couture Photo © Topher Adam

We are delighted to reprise our formal Halloween party, and invite you to join us in your finest formal attire to enjoy stunning performances and a delectable midnight feast. This event is inspired by the novel The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, which will certainly provide interesting details and inspiration should you choose to read it before hand.

Bridal couture by Dark Garden

The scene is set in the early 1900s, so dress appropriately in your finest corset or formal attire. Formal clothing or elegant costume is a requirement for this event, and will be strictly enforced at the door. Are you a Rêveur, dressed in black and grey with a splash of red, or new comer to the circus, a performer yourself? Let your imagination run wild! And of course, if you find yourself at a loss for what to wear, stop by Dark Garden's boutique at 321 Linden St. to pick up a new corset, hat, and other accessories.

Dark Garden couture ensemble featuring embellished "Alyscia" corset Photo © Herm Pugay

Our intimate location is near Civic Center BART, in San Francisco's South of Market neighborhood. This is a private event and the address will only be shared with confirmed attendees after ticket purchase. We have a limited number of tickets remaining, which must be purchased in advance; there are no sales at the door. If you attended last year's event, there's a 25% off discount available.

As this is a private party, please call us for information regarding ticket purchases. We can be reached at 415-431-7684 or boutique@darkgarden.com, 7 days a week.

Happy Halloween!

2014 Night Circus Photo © John Carey

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Bespoke Corset FAQ

October 29, 2015, 11:13 am

≫ Next: Fashion for All Sizes with Kix'ies: 2016 Preview at Dark Garden, November 6

≪ Previous: The Night Circus Returns This Halloween

$

0

0

At Dark Garden Unique Corsetry, we have designed, fit, and created literally thousands of bespoke corsets over our 27 years of business. These bespoke corsets were averaged to create our exceptional standard fit line, but the best fit will always come about through the bespoke atelier experience. In today's mass produced market, the bespoke process is an anomaly, and we realize you might have some questions! For example, what is bespoke? How does it relate to, and differ from, the standard fit offerings? If you have a specific question, you may wish to type "command F" and search for your question's keyword(s).

Dark Garden "Aziza" bespoke corset Model: Vienna La Rouge Photo © Joel Aron

What is bespoke?

A bespoke corset at Dark Garden is one that has been custom drafted for your unique body, and has been fit tested with mockups (lightweight prototype corsets). We also have a much wider range of fabrics and design options and upgrades for our bespoke styles, as compared to our Signature Collection ready-to-wear line. Our Signature Collection contains pre-designed styles in our standard fit, which are what we have available in our boutique and on our website for immediate purchase.

Is bespoke the same as custom?
We used to use the term "custom" to describe this process. However, the high degree of customization available through our Made-to-Order corsets (which start with a standard fit base) caused some confusion. Bespoke is a traditional tailoring term that speaks to the higher fit standards and labor-intensive efforts required to achieve them.

What about the "personalized fit" offered for your Made-to-Order corsets?

Brace yourself for a little vocabulary lesson! Our Made-to-Order with Personalized Fit corsets are much more like the "Made-to-Measure" of tailoring vernacular. We use samples from our standard fit line plus measurements to create a personalized fit. While MTM and bespoke are often both considered "custom," Made-to-Measure corsets generally skip the critical mockup/intermediate fitting phase. The original fit sample garment stands in for the mockup, and this is the only fitting.

Dark Garden "Adelaide" bespoke corset Photo © John Carey

I tried on a bespoke corset from your archive, but I didn't like the way it sat on me. Is the bespoke line similar to the standard fit styles where various styles work better for different bodies?
Yes and no. Depending on the silhouette you're trying to create, different style lines will enhance or detract from that end goal on your body. However, when looking at the archive or trying on someone else's personal corset (perhaps at the annual rummage sale), you must remember that that corset was built for someone else's body. The proportions and lines of the style are always customized to the individual. So if the underarm was too high or the waist shape too mild, that would be a non-issue in a bespoke that was created for you.

Are all of your standard fit styles available in bespoke?
Yes! Some of the standard fit styles have direct bespoke analogues; others have equivalent styles with a different name for various reasons. The bespoke versions of the Sweetheart, Dollymop and Victorian have more panels, which creates the opportunity for a much more finessed fit. Functionally, the bespoke equivalent of a Valentine would also be a bespoke Sweetheart; the Cincher and Cupid both translate to an Underbust Victorian, etc. Remember that the fit of the ready-to-wear style doesn't inherently reflect how well its bespoke equivalent would work for you. Let us know your shaping and styling goals at your consultation and we can guide you. We have a much broader range of bespoke styles and can also design new or hybrid creations to meet your needs.

Do I need to make an appointment for a bespoke consultation?
We pride ourselves on being able to take walk-in orders for bespoke corsets. If one of our fit experts isn't available when you come by, our retail associates should be able to help you as well. If you are looking for a more extravagant couture piece, then a consultation with a member of our design team should be scheduled. This ensures both their availability and the appropriate length of time for discussion, sketching, and swatching.

Dark Garden "Sweetheart" bespoke corset Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © Perry Gallagher

In what sizes are bespoke corsets available? I have a standard fit corset that is a half size (with an odd-sized waist), can my bespoke corset be made in a half size?

We sometimes will do Made-to-Order corsets in hybrid sizes - a 24 front with a 22 back, for example. Because every dimension of a bespoke corset is customized to your body, there's no limit on how exacting the waist size is! Though most of our standard fit styles are sized in even numbers, we often fit our bespokes to the half, quarter, or eighth of an inch at the waist. It all depends on your personal compression, body symmetry, and goals. Please be communicative (and also realistic) about your waist shaping goals during the consultation and fitting.

Are the bespoke corsets gendered?

We can make any of our bespoke corsets to suit any gender identity or presentation. Please note that if you intend to pad your hips or bust for your corset, we will be fitting to a particular level of padding. Thus, you should wear the same pads for each fitting, and know that your corset won't fit as well when worn with other accoutrements.

There are so many bespoke style options! Which one should I get?

Of course, there's no one answer to this question. A bride, a waist trainer, and a fetish party reveler will likely all choose different styles. However, our most popular overbust corset is the Aziza, a fetching style with a sweetheart neckline, waist-accentuating angled body seams, and optional straps. The most popular underbust is the Underbust Victorian, a classic style which fits from just below the bust to the mid hip.

Dark Garden "Underbust Victorian" bespoke corset Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © Chris Gaede

What are the "Cinderella" corsets you sometime have for sale in the boutique?

Cinderella corsets are brand new bespoke samples which we have elected to sell rather than incorporate into our archive. Like Cinderella's slipper, if it fits, it's meant to be! These pieces are typically discounted roughly 30% from the list price from a new bespoke.

What measurements do you take for a bespoke corset? How is this more personalized than the personalized fit, aside from the mockup fitting?
We take 10-20 measurements for bespoke corsets, a comprehensive cross-reference of both circumferential (such as the bust and multiple hip references) and vertical measurements. The latter is critical in bespoke corsetry, to maximize support and idealize coverage without sacrificing mobility. Bespoke also affords the opportunity to refine the exact silhouette sculpting, top and bottom edge shaping, and angles of seams. This last point is crucial for comfort as well as aesthetics.

You keep using the word mockup, what does it mean?

A mockup, sometimes called a toile, is a lightweight prototype used to test fit. While a mockup is much softer than a brand new finished corset, it gives us the chance to see how your body compresses. We analyze the angle of the seams and boning as well as the coverage and support of the length. Measurements only tell half the story and mockups are crucial to achieving a good fit. Every body compresses differently; your posture and body composition will affect your corset's shape as much as your natural measurements.

Dark Garden "Underbust Edwardian" bespoke corset Model: Mina Photo © John Carey

How many fittings are there?

Typically, we do two mockup fittings, plus an initial consultation and measurement session. We also strongly recommend you try your new bespoke corset on at pickup. We can walk you through putting your corset on - many perceived fit problems can actually be addressed by adjusting your lacing and the placement of the corset on your body. This means for most corsets, there will be a total of four sessions with us. In addition, strapped corsets require a strap fitting.

So what are all the steps for a bespoke corset?

First, the consultation and measurements. Then, a unique pattern is drafted just for you. This is cut out and stitched into the first mockup. You will be called to schedule your mockup fitting with proprietress/lead designer Autumn Adamme, who will adjust your pattern. Typically, the mockup process then repeats itself one more time. At your final mockup fitting, your designer will confirm the fabrication details with you. With the design finalized, your corset is ready to be cut, sewn, grommeted, and laced. On strapped corsets, there's one more fitting before the top edge is finished and your corset is complete. This makes for a total of four to six appointments.

How long does the process take? Is it possible to do a rush bespoke order?

Our standard turnaround for bespoke corsets is 3 months. Depending on the time of year, if you are prompt in scheduling your fittings, a 2 month turnaround can often be accommodated without a rush fee. We encourage you to schedule your fittings promptly regardless, as it gives your body less chance to fluctuate throughout the process! If you have need of an even tighter turnaround, we can do rush turnarounds of 1 month if fittings are pre-scheduled. The fee for this turnaround is $500. A one-week turnaround is possible for a fee equivalent to the base price of your corset and may not be available year-round.

Dark Garden "Baroque" bespoke corset Model: Anneka Photo © Betsy Kershner

What can I do to aid the bespoke process?
We're so glad you asked! Please be sure to provide us with the most up-to-date contact information for you. Schedule your fittings promptly - you may even wish to schedule them in advance. Please understand that additions or changes to your order are liable to incur an additional fee. Be very communicative during fittings: we only know what we see, but not what you feel, or what you prefer aesthetically.

Are bespoke corsets only available for local clients?

While we strongly recommend that you come in person for a bespoke corset, we are very adept at remote fittings. We have measurement guides to aid you through the first step of the process, and a questionnaire to guide you through self-fitting your mockups. Photographs or a Skype fitting must accompany the questionnaire.

I'm planning to lose weight and/or have cosmetic surgery, should I hold off on ordering a bespoke corset?

If you have a surgery planned for the immediate future, then we ask that you wait to order a bespoke corset until after your surgery and an appropriate healing period. If you plan to but have not yet begun to lose weight, we recommend having the corset made to your current size. If you're already actively losing, we would prefer to hold off until your weight has stabilized. However, given deadlines of events, standard seasonal fluctuations, and/or the occasional medical necessity of a corset's support, we understand that this is not always possible. To this end, we will start by drafting your base pattern 2" smaller (to fit with a 4" lacing gap) and continually assess the corset's fit in relation to your goals at each fitting.

Dark Garden "Alyscia" bespoke corset Model: Morgan M. Photo © Max Johnson

I want a bespoke corset or ensemble to wear at my wedding, when should I begin that process?

Congratulations! It's never too early to get started on the design process for a couture wedding ensemble and many brides and grooms come to us nine to twelve months before the big day to begin planning. Given that weddings often go with weight loss (intentional or unintentional), we often put measuring and garment construction on hold until 6 months before your wedding date. Your penultimate fittings may likewise be put on hold as to minimize the chance of your changing size during their creation.

Dark Garden "Dita" bespoke corset Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Joel Aron

-Marianne

Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

---

Fashion for All Sizes with Kix'ies: 2016 Preview at Dark Garden, November 6

October 29, 2015, 11:36 am

≫ Next: Fine Art & Fine Corsets: Dark Garden at the de Young, November 6

≪ Previous: Bespoke Corset FAQ

$

0

0

Dark Garden, Cute Like Mad, and Kix'ies invite you to a night of fun and fashion at Dark Garden's 321 Linden St. boutique! On November 6, 2015, from 5pm to 8pm, join us for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres as we preview Kix'ies' designs for 2016. Our live models will show you how to style your Kix'ies from the boardroom, to the bar, to the boudoir. Space for this event is limited so please submit your RSVP to info@kixies.com. The first 50 RSVPs will receive swag bags with coupons, cookies, and other goodies!

Kix'ies 2016 Preview

Featuring Cute Like Mad

Friday, November 6, 5pm-8pm

Dark Garden Unique Corsetry

321 Linden St., San Francisco CA 94102

415-431-7684

Model: Nicole Simone Dark Garden Corselette& Kix'ies thigh highs Photo © John Carey

Kix'ies are currently available in our boutique and you can pick up a pair today. These amazing stockings feature a stay-up band and sizing that work. Of course, just because they're stay-ups doesn't mean you can't pair them with our handmade garter belt or the detachable garters on your corset! Check them out on Nicole Simone, one of our favorite bombshells, who's wearing her Kix'ies with a black satin Corselette with detachable garters.

Models: Kelsey Sailors & Victoria Dagger in the Dark Garden garter belt Photo © Mask Photo

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Fine Art & Fine Corsets: Dark Garden at the de Young, November 6

October 30, 2015, 12:43 pm

≫ Next: Oakland Trunk Show at A Revelation in Fit

≪ Previous: Fashion for All Sizes with Kix'ies: 2016 Preview at Dark Garden, November 6

$

0

0

Have a taste of the finer things in life. Dark Garden is pleased to rejoin the de Young Museum on November 6 for Friday Nights at the de Young: Electric Couture. At this after-hours art happening, we'll be reliving and reinventing the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in celebration of its centennial.

Electric Couture
Friday, November 6, 2015, 6:30-8:30pm

de Young Museum

50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118

415.750.3600

James Tissot, "L'Ambitieuse" This painting's subject wears a Corselette over her frilled pink gown

We'll have corsets for you to try on against the backdrop of our lovely models, electroswing music, and delectable cocktails. Then, step into our photobooth with Shoot That Klown Photography! You won't want to miss the performances, either: Balla Fire's Loie Fuller tribute and belly dancers Mira Betz and Yvonne Michelle are sure to please. Musical entertainment will be provided by DJ Michael Milano and the young guitar virtuoso Roberto Granados and his brother Ernesto.

Dollymop for Dark Garden couture ensembles Models: Anneka & Sarafina Photo © Joel Aron

Admission is free, including access to the de Young's permanent collections. For those wishing to view the current special exhibitions such as Jewel City, a discounted $15 ticket is available during Friday Nights at the de Young.

Model: Victoria Dagger in a corset ensemble inspired by Sargent's Portrait of Madame X Photo © Joel Aron

~Marianne

Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Oakland Trunk Show at A Revelation in Fit

December 14, 2015, 2:05 pm

≫ Next: Dark Garden's Last Hurrah at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

≪ Previous: Fine Art & Fine Corsets: Dark Garden at the de Young, November 6

$

0

0

Dark Garden Cincher in Red with Lace Overlay Model: Allie Diane Photo © Joel Aron

Dark Garden is so excited to partner with another amazing local business and fit expert. A Revelation in Fit is a bra fitting boutique owned by former Dark Garden employee, Robynne Winchester. On December 17, from 6 to 9 pm, we will be joining A Revelation in Fit for a corset trunk show in their Oakland boutique.

Corset Trunk Show

A Revelation in Fit

3974 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA

Friday, December 17

6pm-9pm

Dark Garden Risqué Sweetheart in Limited Edition pink lace overlay Model: Anuka Mendbayar Photo © Herm Pugay

 We will be bringing our best-loved styles for all figure types, in full size runs. Valentines, Cupids, Dollymops, and Cinchers will all be there. We'll have classic black poplin corsets for foundation wear and waist training, as well as some of our gorgeous Limited Edition fabrications. The latter are available off-the-rack at a special price, discounted $200 from their made-to-order pricing.

Dark Garden Risqué Cincher in red silk and black mesh Model: Euphrates X Photo © Joel Aron

If you're already a Dark Garden client but aren't familiar with A Revelation in Fit, here's what you need to know. There is no better place in the Bay Area for bra fitting. We all keep hearing that 70% of women are wearing the wrong bra size - in our experience, that's no exaggeration! Much of the problem is the lack of diversity in the bra sizes easily available in the US. Whether you're small band/full bust, large band/small bust, or anything in between, A Revelation in Fit has you covered. They stock bras in sizes 28-46 A-KK. A properly fitted bra – like a good corset – can change your life. It can reduce back and shoulder pain and improve your confidence as well as the hang of your clothes.

Dark Garden bespoke waspie in scarlet silk Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Alyxander Ryan

We hope we'll see you in Oakland for this delightful event! Don't forget to RSVP on Facebook and invite your friends.

-Marianne

Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Dark Garden's Last Hurrah at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

December 17, 2015, 2:05 pm

≫ Next: January 9: Edwardian Ball Styling Party

≪ Previous: Oakland Trunk Show at A Revelation in Fit

$

0

0

'Tis the season! A time for roasted nuts, petticoats and crinolines, and the sound of carolers ringing throughout our little slice of London at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair. Dark Garden will have a pop-up boutique therein, and we encourage you to join us for our last year at the Fair. This is the final weekend of Dickens Fair for the 2015 season - your last chance ever to visit us in Victorian London!

Dickens Fair

10:00am - 7:00 pm

December 19 & 20

Tickets $25-$30

Cow Palace Exhibition Halls,

2600 Geneva Ave., San Francisco, CA

Dark Garden Risqué Sweetheart Model: Caroline Photo © John Carey

Please join us in celebrating our last year in Victorian London. The Dickens Fair is a wonderful event filled with fascinating boutiques, delicious food, cider, and even absinthe, and live entertainment in the form of Dickensian characters strolling the snow-strewn streets. We look forward to meeting you on a holiday adventure in this Victorian Christmas card come to life.

New at Dark Garden - stunning pagoda-style parasol umbrellas! Waterproof and gorgeous, they're perfect for fair or fierce weather. Stop in and prepare for El Niño or in the meantime, protect against the sun! #darkgardencorsetry #darkgarden #corsetry #corsets #waisttraining #sf #sfmade #elnino #pagoda #parasol #umbrella #finishingbelt #stealth

A video posted by Dark Garden Unique Corsetry (@darkgardencorsetry) on Oct 22, 2015 at 3:23pm PDT

At the Fair, our famous booth is adorned with bay windows, within which lounge live corseted models. This attraction has been a long-time favorite of fair goers, offering a glimpse at the treasures within. Our staff of trained fitters will put you in a corset so you can experience for yourself the shaping and support effected by our unique standard fit line. Corsets in special limited edition fabrications are available for immediate purchase, or you can place an order for one in your choice of fabric and style and we will build it just for you. For the holidays, we've stocked up on stockings and jewelry – Dickens Fair is an excellent environment for gift shopping!

Proprietress Autumn Adamme in a bespoke Sweetheart Photo © John Carey

Dickens Fair has been amazing for Dark Garden and we've enjoyed our 15 years there. This year has been no exception: we've been putting our heart and soul into making it our best Dickens Fair ever. We are now looking to hone our focus, and aim our resources towards creating the best possible experience for our clients within our San Francisco boutique at 321 Linden St. Our Hayes Valley shop is where the magic happens, where corset dreams are created and come alive. Here you can walk in any day of the week and try on an overbust or underbust corset in any size or be measured for a bespoke corset. Peruse our curated selection of clothing, jewelry, and locally made fine millinery, all selected to please a nostalgic lover of beauty.

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

January 9: Edwardian Ball Styling Party

December 24, 2015, 9:11 am

≫ Next: How to Lace Up a Corset – An Intimate Education, March 4th

≪ Previous: Dark Garden's Last Hurrah at the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

$

0

0

Edwardian Ball is just around the corner! Edwardian Ball tickets are available for purchase here at Dark Garden, and we are once again hosting one of our popular styling parties to prepare for this singular event. Be the belle of the ball in a Dark Garden corset! Let our stylists assist you with fitting and style pairings while you nibble on a snack and sip some punch from 3pm-8pm on Saturday, January 9th, 2016.

Edwardian Ball Styling Party

January 9, 3pm-8pm

Dark Garden Unique Corsetry
321 Linden St., San Francisco

415-431-7684

Dark Garden couture – bespoke Alyscia corset ensemble Model: Monica Lenk Photo © Joel Aron

As ever, we will be presenting a fashion show at the Edwardian Ball. Catch our luxe looks on the main stage, adorning the members of Rosin Coven while they perform "The Stupid Joke" a short opera. Upstairs we will also be presenting Dark Garden couture looks on our statuesque pedestal models. For performers and guests alike, Dark Garden is the tastemaker for the fashions of the Edwardian Ball – and we'd love to dress you at our styling party.

Dark Garden Signature Collection Dollymop Overbust corset in black & white pinstripe Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Joel Aron

In our boutique right now, we have a lovely selection of ready-to-wear corsets in a variety of fabrications. From Risqué mesh to brocade to leather, we've got a little bit of everything. Should you require something extra special made up just for you, we can create your Made-to-Order corset in just one week for a $200 rush fee. There is also a delightful selection of glittering jewelry and sparkling crowns to complete your ensembles. We particularly love the elegant millinery of House of Nines and Kalico Delafay. While most of our options are deliciously femme, we also have a small, well-curated assemblage of men's and butch corsets and accessories.

Dollymop for Dark Garden couture ensemble Dollymop Lancer corseted pantsuit in ivory herringbone Model: Ambyr Photo © Saint Laurent Photography

As well as this delectable array of new merchandise, we have corsets and a few select ensembles from previous years' shows available for rental or purchase. Corset rentals for the weekend are $150; ensembles are $275. Of course, the ensembles we have available are so gorgeous that you just might want to keep one instead of renting – which we fully condone! Having been worn a few times for photoshoots and fashion shows, these floor samples are priced at a discount.

Dollymop for Dark Garden sequin corset gown. Photo © John Carey

The Edwardian Ball is my favorite event of the year. It is a marvelous occasion on which one may take in myriad fine sights – and also be one of the fine sights! We'll see you there on January 22nd & 23rd, for an impeccably stylish weekend of artful entertainments.

Dark Garden couture Bespoke Grable corset ensemble Photo © Joel Aron

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

How to Lace Up a Corset – An Intimate Education, March 4th

February 5, 2016, 3:54 pm

≫ Next: Treat Yourself to a Champagne & Corset Service This Valentine's Day!

≪ Previous: January 9: Edwardian Ball Styling Party

$

0

0

Wondering how to put your corset on – or take it off, for that matter? Dark Garden's got your back! Join us for an evening of corset lacing instruction on Friday, March 4th, 5pm, at our 321 Linden St. Boutique in San Francisco.

Tailored Cincher Model: James Alvarez Photo © Joel Aron

This is the inaugural event for our quarterly lacing series. Join us at 5pm and learn how put a corset on yourself or on someone else. Whether you're training your partner, your daughter, or your maid of honor, it's always nice to have another pair of hands. But fear not! With a little bit of practice... and a touch of dexterity... you can absolutely put on your own corset... and wrap yourself in an all day hug.

High Back Dollymop Overbust Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Alyx Ryan

Here's a delicious tease of what you can expect at this event. Watch our proprietress Autumn Adamme lacing up one of our favorite models, Summer Makovkin. Summer is wearing one of our couture collection ensembles at the lovely Salle Pianos.

If you can't make it to the event next month, catch us at our June 3rd, September 2nd, or December 2nd event. That's the 1st Friday of every 3rd month, at 5pm. And if you find yourself in a pinch before then, just call up our shop at 415-431-7684 and we'll walk you through the lacing process over the phone!

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Treat Yourself to a Champagne & Corset Service This Valentine's Day!

February 5, 2016, 4:10 pm

≫ Next: Why We Lace Our Corsets the Way We Do

≪ Previous: How to Lace Up a Corset – An Intimate Education, March 4th

$

0

0

Risqué Cincher Model: If-N'-Whendy Photo © Chris Gaede

Treat yourself like a VIP this Valentine's Day! Dark Garden would love to host you and up to five friends for an exclusive champagne service styling party. During our regular business hours (11am-5pm) on Sunday, February 14, we are accepting bookings for 2-hour Sparkling Style Parties at our 321 Linden St. boutique in San Francisco.

Risqué Sweetheart Model: Dwoira Galilea Photo © Joel Aron

Each $500 party hosts up to 6 guests and includes 2 bottles of sparkling wine... delicate nibbles... and 2 private attendants. Lounge in our cozy couture loft while our experts fetch and fit corsets and other intimate apparel and accessories from our boutique floor. Describe your personal style and we'll help you select the perfect custom fabric and details for a made-to-order corset.

The Ambrose and Tailored Cincher Photo © Joel Aron

To book your private party with us, email boutique@darkgarden.com or call 415-431-7684 and ask for Ambyr or Alee.

This package is great for:

• bachelorette parties
• couples 
• or trios, or more! – we pride ourselves on our inclusivity
• best friend dates
• couple friends

Signature Collection Cincher Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Joel Aron

For those looking to treat someone else this Valentine's Day, a Dark Garden gift certificate makes a lovely gift. From now through next Sunday, we are giving away two free pairs of luscious red garters (a $40 value) with every gift certificate purchase of at least $100. This offer is valid while supplies last.

Couture ensemble featuring "Alyscia" bespoke corset Photo © Chris Gaede

Happy Valentine's Day!

With love,
Dark Garden

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

---

Why We Lace Our Corsets the Way We Do

February 19, 2016, 1:08 pm

≫ Next: Meet the Makers: Matthew Nash

≪ Previous: Treat Yourself to a Champagne & Corset Service This Valentine's Day!

$

0

0

Here at Dark Garden, we have a very particular way of lacing our corsets. There's a specific reason why we like them laced this way. Let's delve into not just why we lace them thusly, but also how we figured it out. Our proprietress and lead designer, Autumn Adamme, will be recounting the story firsthand.

Dark Garden Aziza corset Model: Vienna La Rouge Photo © Joel Aron

Along the way to explaining these things, I’m going to take a moment to say that while I may not be the first person to choose to lace corsets this way, I know that I worked it out all on my own. I believe it has since been named cross lacing – I’m not sure, it’s just how I do it. It happened sometime between 1989, when I started and named Dark Garden, and 1992, when Monique Motil joined me and our quest for corset mastery truly began.

Dark Garden corset, laced without our signature crossed waist loops

In the three photos above you’ll see three types of lacing. The photo directly above illustrates how many corsets are laced these days, and how nearly all corsets were laced when I started making corsets (1987 - yes, I WAS a child). I decided to re-lace one of ours to show why I personally don’t like it. You’ll notice that there’s a gap at the waist, where the garment is tightest. In addition, the skin that has been pulled to the back of the body bulges between the laces, even on this very slender corset wearer.

Dark Garden corset, laced to our standard method

The second photo shows the same corset put back to rights. (Kidding, it’s laced as all Dark Garden corsets are: to my preference, right or wrong.) You’ll see that at the waist there’s more lacing, instead of less. Therefore, the skin there is supported, and kept inside the corset.

Maidenform advertisment circa 1990

The third photo is a Maidenform advertisement which has been part of my inspiration wall in 5 locations now, since 1990. I ripped it out of Cosmopolitan Magazine, if I recall correctly. You’ll see that one of the pairs of grommets has been skipped, and I wondered for a while why they’d do this, but I also thought at first that the laces crossed, as we do our laces. I recall looking at this photo and wondering how the top ribbon went to the bottom and vice versa (I was a kid, remember?) and I experimented, and came up with what we’ve been doing ever since.

Dark Garden bespoke "Grable" corset Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Joel Aron

Since I’ve taken a ride in the way-back machine to write this post, I must give credit where credit is due. My friend Jwlhyfer de Winter laced her corsets with satin ribbon when everyone else was using round cord or shoe lace. She did this because she liked how easily it slid through the grommets, and I copied her. I also like that you can buy it in so many colors and it’s really darn strong. As my friend and rope-bondage expert Mistress Midori pointed out, satin ribbon is braided polyester – which really is just pretty rope.

So, to sum up: The strength of cross-lacing is greater than conventional lacing and I rest my case there! If you're interested in learning more about corset lacing, do come by our upcoming How to Lace Up a Corset event on Friday, March 4! We will also be hosting this event on several other dates throughout the year at our 321 Linden St., San Francisco boutique.

~Autumn Adamme
Founder

Meet the Makers: Matthew Nash

March 4, 2016, 4:48 pm

≫ Next: Couture Corsetry Techniques: Flossing

≪ Previous: Why We Lace Our Corsets the Way We Do

$

0

0

Dark Garden is a special place, not just because we offer such a unique product, but also for the special people we hire to craft it. In our new Meet the Makers series, we'll take you behind the boutique into our atelier. You'll become acquainted with the artisans who work here at 321 Linden St. to create our beautiful corsets and ensembles. For this, our first installment, we're focusing on Matthew Nash, the mustachioed man who leads our bridal & couture department.

What is your background? Describe the path that led you to Dark Garden.
My first professional job in garment making was as a stitcher with the Santa Fe Opera in New Mexico, in 1979. They had a summer apprentice program with on-the-job training. I put together a portfolio with costumes I'd made for friends, and interviewed in New York. I was hired though I had no professional experience and no formal training. I learned how to pattern by looking at books, and all the sewing I learned by trial and error. When I saw that there was a whole team of people that builds costumes, it was a turning moment. I realized I wanted to be a patternmaker, not a designer, and be the one who can turn those sketches into a real garment.

Then I was hired as a draper/patternmaker by the Folger Shakespeare's Theater back in DC, where I'd lived previously. I'd never done that before, but it was Shakespeare, so... not that complicated. So I just looked at books, and figured it out! The resident costume designer there used to work in England, in Covent Garden, and he was a patternmaker there. I learned a lot from him. I worked there for about five years.

Then I moved to California, with no job, and sent out resumes up and down the state. I only got one interview in San Diego, but they said I didn't have enough experience. I only had one resume left so I sent to the San Francisco Opera. Everybody said, "Oh, somebody has to die before you can get a job there," but it had just been taken over by Jenny Green from England. She was revamping the whole costume shop. She called me for an interview and it turned out that the resident costume designer that I used to work for in Washington DC used to work for her at Covent Garden. She knew he was a really good patternmaker and that I would have been trained in the style that she was interested in.

So she hired me! My first year I was there, I had 5 pay raises and 3 promotions. I guess I was good at it! There was always a last minute emergency in every production, and I quickly proved what I could do under pressure. I was there almost 30 years as their senior patternmaker.

After about a year working on my own, a colleague suggested I apply to Dark Garden. I hadn't made much womenswear before, let alone corsets, but I interviewed, and they were looking for someone to sew. I'm really a patternmaker, but I gave it a go, and here I am a year later! I learned to put in an invisible zipper and work with "girl" fabrics – charmeuse and chiffon and all that.

How would you describe what you do here?
I make everything that's not a corset!

Matthew in his Tailored Cincher with matching slacks. Ambyr wears a Dollymop Amelia ensemble. Photo © John Carey

That covers a pretty broad range of things, doesn't it?
I'm responsible for doing most of the patternmaking and sewing on all of our custom bridal ensembles. We do a wide range of skirt styles, as well as slacks and boleros.

I did menswear almost exclusively at the opera. I think that we could do more menswear here, especially trousers. A lot more men are coming in who want corsets – I see a lot of that! We can make corset vests and trousers as a matched set.

I also have my own business, Timeless Tailor. I do more menswear, costume, and leather work under that name.

What are some of your favorite projects that you've done at Dark Garden?
It's great to be able to do ensembles like an elaborate Halloween wedding gown. But then we can also do simple stuff – a great, slinky skirt that fits really nicely and is beautifully finished.

We're working on a really rewarding project right now, with a petticoat, underskirt, overskirt, bolero, corset, and veil. It's based on a computer generated character design. I put a lot of time into draping the skirts, and at the first fitting they were perfect.

Design is all about proportion – that's what I learned at the Opera. No matter what someone's size and shape is, you play with the proportions and make them look the best they possibly can. 'Cause that tenor's gotta look like the soprano's going to kill herself over him! Just... gorgeous.

Describe your work philosophy.
When I was little, my dad told me, "No matter what you do, do it to the best of your ability, even if it's digging ditches. If you do your best, it'll be recognized."

I can't compromise on quality. I do things the way I do them... because it's the way I have to do them. I can't do it to anything less than my very best. It's a curse and a gift!

Couture Corsetry Techniques: Flossing

March 28, 2016, 6:23 pm

≫ Next: New Spring Hours & Scheduled Closures

≪ Previous: Meet the Makers: Matthew Nash

$

0

0

Here at Dark Garden, we are all about the details. As well as our exquisitely pattern matched brocades and hand-pieced lace appliqué, we also offer corset flossing. Flossing is a traditional corset technique which combines form and function into beautiful embroidery which can actually prolong the life of your corset. This versatile design accent can be applied to virtually any corset, whether it be a pretty bridal piece or seductive vamp style.

Dark Garden "Paris"bespoke corset with Moss Stitching and Satin Wings. Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © Joel Aron

Historically, flossing served to anchor the ends of corset boning within their channels. By reducing chafing against the fabric, the risk of a bone popping through is diminished. Naturally, this gave rise to quite an array of beautiful designs! As well as this functional style of flossing, we are also offering a curated selection of decorative embroidery options, including moss stitching and lovely sprigs of wheat sheafs.

Dark Garden corset flossing samplers. via @DarkGardenCorsetry on Instagram.

Dark Garden's corset flossing was developed with the fabulous embroidery expert Diana LaFerry. Bone casing flossing is available in 10 motifs, as well as the decorative styles mentioned above. From classic Satin Wings and Double Fan to bold styles like Double Hex and Black Widow, each bone casing motif is designed for our signature paired bones on each seam. All styles of flossing are available in 11 different thread colors.

Dark Garden Sweetheart corset with Shocks of Wheat and Satin Wings. via @DarkGardenCorsetry on Instagram.

Flossing begins at $66 per corset plus $30-$75 for each placement, and can be added to your existing Dark Garden corset, a new stock corset, or a new order. We recommend a starting budget of at least $150 for the addition of simple flossing – but why stop there? Consider the luxury of $1000 worth of hand embroidered flossing. Either way, it's an excellent way to add unique texture and a pop of color to a simple and classic corset design. We particularly love it on bridal style corsets. Let it transform a traditional ivory corset with a uniquely elegant style, lending that heirloom feeling.

Dark Garden bespoke Alyscia coset Photo © Stereo Photo Album

~Marianne

Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

New Spring Hours & Scheduled Closures

April 1, 2016, 4:43 pm

≫ Next: Annual Corset Rummage Sale, July 17

≪ Previous: Couture Corsetry Techniques: Flossing

$

0

0

Dark Garden Valentine corset with wrap bolero. Designed by Autumn Adamme for our Spring 2016 collection. Photo © Shoot That Klown Photography

Our Hayes Valley boutique has newly updated our store hours for spring. Beginning this week, our retail location at 437 Linden St., San Francisco will be open for business during the following times. Of course, you can shop online 24/7 at www.darkgarden.com!

SundaythroughWednesday: 11am to 5pm

Thursday: 11am to 6pm

Friday & Saturday: 11:30am to 6:30pm

In addition to these new hours, we have two scheduled closures coming up. The Dark Garden boutique will not be open on Wednesday, 4/13, and Sunday, 5/1. We invite you to explore Hayes Valley during Urban Air Market on May 1st, and return to visit us during our normal business hours another day.

Bespoke High Back Dollymop Overbust with Sleeves Photo © John Carey

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere

Annual Corset Rummage Sale, July 17

April 19, 2016, 11:48 am

≫ Next: Private Fitting Clinic with Autumn Adamme!

≪ Previous: New Spring Hours & Scheduled Closures

$

0

0

Bespoke High-Back Dollymop Corset Model: Victoria Dagger Photo © Alyxander Ryan

The curviest event of the year is nearly upon us! Join Dark Garden on July 17th for our annual rummage sale, our biggest single-day event. Savvy shoppers line up on Linden St. before we open to get first dibs on a selection of archive, unworn bespoke samples, and gently loved pre-owned corsets, as well as discounted stock corsets, clothing, accessories, and studio odds and ends.

Dark Garden Annual Rummage Sale

Sunday, July 17, 11am-6pm

Dark Garden Unique Corsetry

321 Linden St.

San Francisco, CA 94102

415-431-7684

Signature Collection Corselette Model: Autumn Adamme Photo © Joel Aron

Here's what you can expect to find in the way of corsets at our rummage sale:

• Corset raffle! A single $5 ticket could win you a made-to-order corset from our Signature Collection
• Unworn bespoke sample corsets, deeply discounted from their list price
• Pre-loved corsets, sold on consignment from their previous owners
• 10% discount on in-stock corsets
• Deeper discounts on select in-stock corsets
• Fashion show & archive corsets and ensembles

Beyond the corsets, our Rummage Sale also features:

• Last-season garments and accessories on sale
• Fabric remnants from the studio
• Vintage patterns
• All manner of miscellany

Bespoke Adelaide corset via @darkgardencorsetry on Instagram

If you've outgrown - or outshrunk - your old Dark Garden corsets, bring them in between June 3rd and July 3rd to be assessed for consignment. You can opt to get cash or Dark Garden store credit if your corset sells at the rummage sale. Corsets must be dry cleaned and in good condition to be eligible; only Dark Garden corsets can be sold at our rummage sale. Please email boutique@darkgarden.com with, "Rummage sale consignment," in the subject line to make arrangements for consigning your Dark Garden corset.

Thank you for making last year's Rummage Sale such a resounding and joyous success. Please RSVP to this year's event on Facebook and share it with your friends - the rummage sale is a crazy day, and it's also an absolute blast. We'll see you there!

Dollymop Lancer Corset Photo © Joel Aron

~Marianne
Multi-Purpose Corsetiere