Spring in Calgary, 1925, was a season of renewal, and for women, it was the perfect time to refresh their wardrobes for Easter. A century ago, fashion was more than just clothing—it was a statement of elegance and social standing. At the heart of this transformation was the corset, a timeless garment that shaped not only the body but also the vibrant Easter fashion scene. From Victorian corsets to waspie corsets, Calgary women embraced a variety of styles to achieve the coveted hourglass figure. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of corsets, spring style, and how Calgary women shopped for their Easter outfits 100 years ago.

The Corset: A Staple of 1920s Spring Fashion

In the early 20th century, corsets were evolving from the rigid, whalebone-reinforced Victorian corsets of the 19th century to more flexible designs. By 1925, the silhouette was shifting toward a straighter, more relaxed fit, but corsets remained essential for creating a polished look. Unlike the tight-lacing corsets of the Victorian era, which prioritized a wasp-waisted figure, 1920s corsets focused on smoothing the hips and supporting the bust, aligning with the emerging flapper style.

Calgary women, preparing for Easter Sunday, sought corsets that balanced comfort and style. The underbust vinyl corset top, a popular choice, sat below the chest, allowing for a natural bustline while cinching the waist. Overbust corsets, which covered the chest, were also favored for formal occasions, offering a structured silhouette under spring dresses. These garments, often made from cotton, satin, or even luxurious leather corsets, were both functional and fashionable.

Why Corsets Mattered for Easter

Easter was a significant event in Calgary’s social calendar, with church services, parades, and gatherings showcasing the latest trends. Women aimed to look their best, and corsets were key to achieving the curvy corset silhouette that was still admired, even as fashion leaned toward looser styles. A well-fitted waist corset could transform a simple spring dress into a head-turning ensemble, emphasizing a woman’s curves while maintaining modesty.

Imagine a Calgary seamstress in 1925, bustling about her shop on Stephen Avenue, measuring a client for a custom vinyl corset. The client, eager to wear it for Easter, would pair it with a pastel dress adorned with lace—a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Corsets weren’t just undergarments; they were the foundation of a woman’s confidence and style.

Shopping for Corsets in 1920s Calgary

Calgary’s shopping scene in 1925 was vibrant, with department stores like Hudson’s Bay and local boutiques offering a range of corsets and spring fashion. Women would visit these stores weeks before Easter, seeking the perfect corset to complement their outfits. Specialty shops, often run by skilled corsetieres, provided custom fittings, ensuring every curvy corset hugged the body just right.

Department Stores and Boutiques

Hudson’s Bay was a go-to destination, stocking everything from affordable cotton waist corsets to high-end satin overbust corsets. Smaller boutiques, meanwhile, offered unique designs, such as mesh corsets for breathability or gothic corsets with intricate embroidery. These shops catered to diverse tastes, from traditional Victorian-inspired pieces to bold leather corsets that hinted at the rebellious spirit of the Jazz Age.

For example, a young Calgary woman might visit a boutique to try on a waspie corset, a shorter style that cinched only the waist, ideal for the lighter, less constrictive dresses of the 1920s. Paired with a drop