By Temitope Ojo
There’s an art to creating the perfect corset— one that not only fits the wearer but also appeals to their individual taste and style.

However, perfecting this art has remained a major challenge for many designers over the years.

It was in a bid to change this narrative that prominent Lagos-based fashion brand, Meeyah Creations, convened a one-week holistic masterclass on the art of corset making last week in Lagos, pulling to the heart of Surulere both emerging and established designers.

Held November 8 through 13, the masterclass which drew over 70 physical and online participants altogether, covered measurement for corset bodice, drafting of basic bodice, Victorian corset, cupped corset, under burst corset, bone insertion technique as well as corset closure.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the initiative, Islamiat Aromashodu, CEO/Creative Director, Meeyah Creations, emphasised that many designers still struggled with creating the perfect corset in spite of the huge presence of the trend both on the runway and real way.

“The art of corsetry has been in existence as far back as 1600BCE. The trend has, since then, continued to evolve each season. Unfortunately, not many fashion designers have mastered the art of corset-making even though it has also been a growing trend lately. Hence, we at Meeyah Creations thought it was a good time to share our knowledge with the world,” she said.

Aromashodu disclosed that the brand had, in the past, trained almost 200 students on both beginners and intermediate levels.

“This master class is, however, our first, and was solely necessitated by the need to empower and impact young women who desperately needed to master their skills in corsetry,” she further explained.

Among top designers who facilitated the masterclass was prominent bridal designer famous for corsetry and avant-garde looks, Azizah Alawusa, the Founder/CEO of Olabisi O’dunne.

The masterclass also empowered participants with free insights on starting and managing a brand, as well as branding and packaging.

High point of the week-long event was the presentation of certificates to the participants by the Head of Corporate Communications, TGI Group, Rafiat Gawat.