Oh hey, guess what? There's a world renowned corset atelier right here in Vancouver! Seamstress and designer Melanie Talkington is the corestier here. She bases her designs after original 18th, 19th, and 20th century corsets, as well as creating originals. The store also sells garters, petticoats, corset covers, shoes, and other accessories. Wear a loose, light shirt when you visit, so the friendly and helpful staff can help you try something on and lace up. They can take your measurements and make a custom corset (starting at about $500) or you can do what I did and buy an off the rack model for about $225. Even though it wasn't custom, it does its job well and looks pretty too. I happen to be wearing it in my profile picture (underneath the clothes of course). Everyone should try it at least once. It's like a party in your waist, and all your sexy is invited. And there's no better place to do it in Vancouver. read more

Lace Embrace Atelier - Women's Clothing Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I went in today about an hour before closing time. I was greeted by Alex, she was very friendly and was super supportive. I say this because I consider myself a MtF Transgender but in public I dress up as a boy. She gave me a quick tour of the store and I perused through to find really good quality lingerie. Of course they have more than that but I can attest to the quality. As I looked at all the corsets, and my goodness there were many :), I brought it up with her. She said they provide in-store fitting and that she could help me with this as well. I will hopefully visit soon to get one, it seems exciting and will definitely help me achieve a lovely figure. To keep it short and simple, I highly recommend you visit this store! read more

Before you die, you HAVE to try on one of these corsets. They aren't just corsets, they are freaking works of art, and they up the va-va-voom factor by about 1 million percent. This ain't your La Senza plastic boning cheap-ass $50 corset, these corsets are based off of vintage corset patterns to be not only sexy as hell but also strangely comfortable. I tried on one of the classic corset styles, I believe it was called Eynede? I got myself into a size 20, making my waist about 22 inches or so, who knew I could look like a coke bottle?? It was amazing! The staff were super helpful and friendly and let me try on at least 5 or 6 different styles and colours and I didn't even end up buying one.... yet! These girls were just so passionate about corsets and vintage lingerie that they were more than happy to lace me up! Yes, the corsets here are expensive, but its all about quality and there is no better place in all of Canada to get a corset that will make you look and feel like a billion bucks, and everyone should have something in their drawers that they can put on to make themselves feel like a sexy bitch. Lord knows I'll be getting myself one of these just so I can sit around the house watching soaps and eating bonbons. Pass the champagne! read more

Whoa. If you've ever been curious to try on a corset, do it and do it here. From the moment they placed that red satin miracle around my hips I was smitten. They transformed me from a frumpy crazy cat lady (sans the cats) into an curvaceous vixen. OMG. How do they do that in so little time? The store itself is full of pretty things to make any girl feel smokin': chain-patterned thigh-highs, ruffled bras, skirts that lace up in the back... fricken everything is bombshell material. If only I was made of money. Back to my life-changing experience: I was determined to buy the corset as soon as I felt the incredible support around my waist and back. Perhaps I should have asked the cost first: $290. "No problem" I said, the words escaping my mouth before my rational mind could keep up. No problem?? Well, let's just say it was a serious case of retail therapy, disguising my bloatiness with the illusion of curves. I'm all over that. You know what? I think it was worth it. Plus I can justify my purchase because it's good for back posture (apparently ladies wear them under their work clothes because it helps their back). Oh yeah baby, I'll take it. Justify my impulse buy because I am soooo sold. **I wish they could be there to fix my trainwreck of a lace-up job when I put it on myself for the first time, teehee. read more

After all the buzz I heard about this shop, I had to admit I was a bit disappointed the first time I stepped foot into the corset world. There was one girl working behind the counter and she didn't seem to want to be bothered. When I asked her questions and told her what I was looking for, she gave me one option and that was that. Ok, whatever, I try it on, and I really do like it, so perhaps she knew what she was doing after all. But when I asked her for a small alteration to make the corset fit better (I'm quite petite), she sighed and went to get some pins. WHAT was that?! If I'm paying $300 for a corset, I sure as heck hope it fits me properly. I almost didn't end up buying it because the girl sure wasn't doing a good job of it, and if the corset didn't sell itself, I sure wouldn't have. I picked up my corset after 2 days, and the second time I set foot in the shop was a completely different experience. There were two different girls working there on the Saturday. They were both upbeat, friendly, talkative, and I felt welcomed. I was very happy with my corset and the quality is very high. If the service was more consistently awesome, like on the Saturday I went in, I would have definitely rated higher. read more

One word to describe Lace Embrace Atelier: wow. I've been meaning to pay this little shop a visit for quite some time now, but last week I was finally given the perfect excuse as my best friend was looking for some lingerie for her wedding. Upon entering, we were greeted by possibly one of the most down-to-earth and hilarious sales people I've ever dealt with. I felt as though we were talking with a long-lost friend from high school. She let us both try on corsets -an overbust number for my friend, and a fun under-bust piece for myself. I'm pretty sure I can speak for both of us when I say that our lives were transformed. We both twirled around in front of the mirrors looking adoringly at ourselves (ladies -imagine that: confidence!) we stood up a little taller, and, of course, our waists suddenly became itty bitty. I even learned that you can sit down comfortably in a well-made, custom corset (unlike the cheap lingerie store varieties). It was pure magic! Although they do sell some pre-made, ready-to-wear corsets, their custom work is where it's at. Starting at around $600, they are a pretty penny, but they are worth every cent. I mean, these people make corsets for films and celebrities -they know what they're doing. The gal at the shop was telling us that some women wear theirs under their clothes every day, and they are a miracle for office-workers who suffer from back pain. It's true -as soon as I put it on, any trace of back pain disappeared. Why oh why did these ever go out of style, again? Since they do custom work, they can make beautiful garments to fit any size, from 00 all the way up into the plus-plus-plus sizes, and they are guaranteed to make all women feel beautiful. I am now officially saving up my pennies to buy my first custom corset. They have several fabric options to choose from, and they also allow you to bring in your own fabric to keep costs down. The sales rep was telling me that some of their clients have found they were able to claim part of the cost through their benefits, as corsets do greatly help with back problems. I asked my benefits provider, and sadly my plan doesn't cover it, but I would suggest that anyone looking to purchase one of these babies give their benefits plan a thorough check. Corsets: a magical garment that makes ladies look and feel sexy as hell PLUS I can maintain my diet of peanut butter cups without adding inches to my waist. Actually, wearing a corset suppresses the appetite slightly, so you can lose weight while looking fan-freaking-tastic. *angels singing* Ladies of Lace Embrace: I'll be seeing you soon. read more

This is my own personal wonderland. Just picture a small, hyperactive child-woman bouncing around in flowery knickers, waving fans and cooing over girdles and you'll basically get the gist... I love this freaking store and could buy the entire contents of it, should I ever have the means to. Two years ago, as I dipped my toes into the cabaret world of Vancity, I ventured into this place for the rite of passage - getting fitted in a proper cincher. Let's just say this straight now ladies - if you try one on, you WILL buy one. Eventually. It will eat at you until you lose all willpower and succumb to the decadence that IS a well made corset. I bought my first baby-step cincher a few months after that initial visit and honeys - i'm hooked. Their corsets/cinchers are INSANELY well made and the women working here, know their shit. Some of their more detailed/custom work is so beautiful, it belongs in a museum of sassy things. Absolutely stunning. And yes, they are pricey - but they are hand made, local and wear like the dickens so shush your face. It's SO worth it. It is one of those purchases that you save up for and splurge because a cheapo knock off is not going to do the trick. But if you're not looking to become a waist cinching superhero, this place also carries and impressive array of girly bits. From seriously adorable floral knickers (why hang out in sweat pants when you can wear girly knickers... that are as comfy) to super cute vintage inspired bathing suits - this place has an eye for all things girly with attitude. But a note - you can grab stockings on the cheaper elsewhere - especially the Legs Avenue stuff. I am notorious for stockings lasting less then 24 hours, so I rarely make a run to Lace Embrace for those. However, their $50 Italian (??) back seam beauties that you can repair before they run? You need those. At some point. For important life things. Like feeling majorly vixeny. This place is worth a gander and worth a splurge. You'd be surprised how one teensy little piece can make you feel like a million bucks and who doesn't love that sly little smile you get when you know you're rocking some seriously sassy undergarment? Visit here. Swoon. And even if you don't want one, try on a corset. They are fun and it makes for awesome Instagram moments. read more

My girlfriend shopped there the other week. Wish i could give this place more than five stars. I'm a lucky boy. read more

I had zero plans to purchase a corset in my lifetime. That was until the lady and I wandered into this shop on Saturday afternoon and I found myself embracing lace, tricot, and a number of very inappropriate fantasies. When we walked in they were listening to "In Here Ta Nite" by Rated R, which kind of blew my mind. It's definitely not a radio-friendly track or even a track I would expect anyone other than hardcore rap nerds to know. Anyway... The two women working were super friendly and casual. This being our first corset experience, they took time to explain the their business and the nature of the design in general. One women even assisted my lady in a sizing and encouraged her to try a couple different kinds on, which I didn't mind in the least. My advice is that if you're in the market or just in the area, do yourself a favor and stop by this amazing shop. I will be back for sure. read more

Be prepared to feel fabulous and sexy! I dare you to go in and try not to buy something; it's impossible. But hey, sometimes you've just got to spoil yourself! Have fun with your man, or even more fun with your girls! Even though I bought two (yikes and yes, two), I'm sure I will return for even more! read more

There are amazing and beautiful things in here. My friend warned me that if I tried on one, I'd probably end up buying it regardless of the $200 (+) price tag! I couldn't resist; it just looks so amazing. The woman that initially sold me the thing was really nice and super knowledgeable, so I was bragging about the service being part of the experience (I felt like royalty). But then when I went back to pick mine up the other woman was not very helpful. So while I love the store, for those prices they need to make sure that their service is exceptional. read more

Corsets and Lingerie. For those who live it, and those who stay in the closet with it (!) Custom corsets, can also be ordered. Victorian and Edwardian styles as well as romantic costumes and accessories. Imagination unbound in a classy environment. If you are in San Fransisco, this place is similar to "The dark Garden." read more

I emailed Melanie about the possibility of having a bridal shower for my BFF in their shop (as she is having a custom overbust corset made for her wedding), and she was so accommodating and friendly! When I decided that I would prefer to have the shower at my house, she offered to send out two of her top gals to my house. On the day of the shower they arrived right on time, loaded with goodies and corsets for us to try on and have a blast with! This was my first time trying on a high quality corset, and I was instantly hooked (no pun intended). The difference between Lace Embrace's corsets and cheaper lingerie store versions is night and day - I am heading in next week to get fitted for my first one! :) Erin and Virginia did an amazing job - they were informative, professional, fun and patient with all of us ladies (and our mothers) clamouring to try the corsets on. I am a convert. Soon to be a much more shapely one! read more

I waited to write my review until my whole transaction - through purchase and alterations was complete. I had a great experience here. I was a little nervous about going in after reading some of the reviews about unfriendly staff. I was afraid everyone was going to look down their nose at me for being a corset virgin. I am delighted to report that this was absolutely not the case! I went in and told the shop girl I was curious about corsets and what I was looking for and she immediately set to work trying to find me the perfect item. She let me try on several styles and colors - lacing me up and snapping photos on my phone so I could compare later. She didn't pressure me about buying and she was so sweet that it truly felt like I was shopping with a friend. Thanks, Marcela! I purchased my lovely cincher corset, which required an alteration. I was excited to wear the corset, so the ladies let me take it home for the weekend, with a promise that I'd bring it back to have it properly fitted. On my second trip into the store to drop the garment off, I also had a pleasant experience with a different shop girl. The alteration was fairly priced and the seamstress did nice work. When I stopped in to pick up my alteration, I was helped by a third, wonderful staff person. She saw that I was still a bit clumsy lacing the corset up, and gave me an awesome crash course in tightening it. I would absolutely recommend this shop to anyone who is looking for a corset. Yes, they are pricey, but they are well made, beautiful, and the knowledgeable staff is extremely helpful! read more

Hands down the best (and prettiest) place in Vancouver for the prettiest, frilliest girly things in town. The service is exceptional; the woman helping me out was so friendly and warm. It's a bit on the pricey side, but that's what you pay for quality and service. The quality of chain store stuff pales in comparison. If you need a pick-me-up on a rainy Vancouver day (or just any other day), you won't be disappointed! read more

Lovely Corsets and a very cute little shop. Just when I was looking for a new corset this place was like pulling teeth to get one! The girl informed me that it would take "At least two months" and would come from a warehouse in Ontario. Which is really confusing because I was under the impression that they made them in house! I could understand two months if it was for a custom one of a kind corset but This was for one off the shelf! She wouldn't sell me the on I tried on either. Over all It wasn't a bad experience and when I don't actually need a corset for an event I may go back, But the whole experience just left me entirely confused. read more

Great selections, terrible service. I went in with a couple girlfriends on a shopping trip once. As a pin up and lingerie model, and a hardcore vintage lingerie and corsetry lover, I was very excited to visit as it had been ages, and I was thinking I would book a corset fitting. The lady working (redhead) immediately treated my friends and I like thieving teens and proceeded to give us shitty looks and did not offer any help at any point. When I specifically asked about a particular lingerie brand I'd heard rumours that they'd be carrying, she gave me some really rude response, "Um no.. we are a /corsetry/ store". I could not believe the attitude I got. I'm still in need of a corset and would love to get a proper fitting as I was hoping to help my chronic neck and shoulder problems. However, I do not ever want to deal this woman and last I've checked, she still works there. I've been going to this store since I was a young girl and am very disappointed that it has become a place I'd rather not bother visiting at all. read more

Love this place, Melaine did a custome made corset for me for work that is brillant! Cannot rave enough about the place or the ladies.

I came here to get some pasty ideas for V-day possibly for the guy I am dating. The lady who owns the store was very patient and helpful and spent a good 10 minutes with me explaining pasties with me. The average cost for a very artful and hand made set averages around $40 which is extremely reasonable. They also have one of the best selections of corsets. read more

I love my newest corset - it is so pretty and I wear it almost every day! I discovered that when i wear it to work at the computer it gives great posture and support! read more

I've had an amazing corset dress made here and come in on occasion for various items and have always had helpful service from Lace Embrace's fashionable and friendly shop girls! Virginia in particular is always very charming and always has the perfect suggestions for the type of undergarment required for a specific outfit. I love this place! read more

I purchased a corset from Lace Embrace about 5 years ago. It is still in near pristine condition, despite heavy use as a costume piece. Recently I took the same corset in for alterations where Virginia waited on me. Her manner was gentle and kind. Her work was comfortable and efficient. My alterations were completed easily on a very tight timeline. I highly recommend Lace Embrace. read more

I'd love to give this place more stars and hopefully I'll be able to come back and edit this one of these days. So I've heard a lot about corset training and I'll be honest. I'm in that awkward spot where plus sized clothes are too big for me but regular sizes are a little too clingy around my midsection. I'm pretty curvy already so I figure that investing in a good corset (possibly more) will be fun for a few reasons. First off, my clothes will look better on my again because that cupcake top and tummy will be squished away. This will be good for my posture and it'll help me stick to my diet too. I also think it'll be fun to rock the super curvy look :) And lastly, I need it for a costume in a couple of weeks. The store was easy to find and is a lot smaller than I had imagined it would be. They have a great selection of really gorgeous items and the service was very good. I was able to explain what I wanted and was whisked away to try on an Edwardian under bust model. Now they put a lot into making sure that things fit perfectly. They did a great job of explaining how to lace things up and I am looking forward to finally getting to see the finished product after alterations. And here's where I'm not completely thrilled. The thing cost me over $400.00 and I'm going to have to pay another $70.00 or so for alterations. Hmmmm. I'd been told that I'd be able to pick it up last Monday and I waited eagerly for the call. I finally called on Wednesday and was told that it would be done on Friday. So I called Saturday and was told that it would be left as a priority for today. And now I'm being told that I can pick it up Thursday. That's close to two weeks late. I'll be honest. I'm starting to get a bit annoyed. That costume I mentioned? I haven't been able to start on it yet because I need to know how the corset is going to fit first. I've mentioned this to them but no luck so far. I can totally understand if this was going to be a huge alteration but I was told that it would only be a couple of hours at most. So now I'm a bit concerned that the alteration is going to take longer and cost a lot more. I would definitely suggest this place for anything that does not require alterations. read more

Very unfriendly staff. They also tried to charge me twice for the same alteration. They were sup post to do the alteration and when I went to pick up my corset the lady helping me do the fitting said they had apparently forgot to do the alteration and could I come back in an hour. I did, then when I came back a second time they tried to charge me again for this alteration that was already paid for. Very unfriendly staff again, they acted like I was bothering them or something. Also, why are you guys charging for alterations on garments that are like 300-700 dollars a piece. I am definitely not going back. Congratulations guys, your attitude lost you a customer for life. read more

I went to Lace Embrace to get a corset top custom made for my wedding, and I am so happy with the results! I am a very unusual shape, and I really did not want the humiliating experience of trying on wedding gowns that didn't fit, paying a huge price, then paying even more to have it altered. Instead I made an appointment to have a custom corset measured for my top. Though there was the option of ordering a matching skirt, my grandmother sewed one for me. My mother an I had the store all to ourselves for our appointment, and the sales lady was so patient when I wanted to try on all the different colours and styles. It was really a great experience for us. I got a corset that I will wear not only on my wedding day, but into the future. It is beautiful and everyone who saw my wedding pictures commented on how well my "dress" fit, and how fantastic it it made me look. I would not hesitate to recommend them for a non-traditional bride looking for something special. read more