Bustiers are unapologetically feminine. They shape the body—nipping the waist, lifting the bust, inviting upright posture. It’s nearly impossible to slouch in a bustier. And that’s part of the point: they demand presence.
This story is woven in both word and image. Visual collaborators featured in the full Substack story include:
"The Portrait"-Metallic silk organza and metallic chantilly lace bustier. 3-dimensional flower petals beaded in metal seed beads. Photo of model Katie Rees by Barry Druxman.
"Remnants become art"-Vintage 1940s tropical curtain fabric bustier, trimmed in organic cotton lace. Accessorized with a raffia belt. Photo of model Michelle Easter by Glenn Campbell.
"Energetic embellishments"-Hand painted, embroidered vintage silk kimono bustier, beaded in freshwater pearls and cherry quartz. Photo of model Joy Dai by Chika Okazumi.
"Bustiers as signature pieces"-Model in a ruched silk organza & velvet buster and skirt with chunky rhodonite beading. “Sirens of Spring” fashion show.
"Eco Bridal Finale"-Fashion show finale wedding gown in hemp/silk organza and satin with freshwater pearl, rose quartz, and aventurine beading. Model Erin Saltman. “Sirens of Spring” fashion show.
"From the runway to red carpet, magazine covers, and music videos" -Models in bustier gowns. Model facing forward is wearing a chantilly lace and English net gown with aventurine, jade, and freshwater pearl beading. “Sirens of Spring” fashion show.
-Rihanna, from the music video “Unfaithful” in the chantilly lace bustier from the runway with aventurine, jade, and freshwater pearl beading.
-Model in the vintage sari bustier beaded in jade and yellow jade, with an ombre English net skirt. “Sirens of Spring” fashion show.
-Pink-In the vintage sari bustier from the runway on the cover of Paw Luxuries with her dog Elvis.
"Costume design" -Custom corset and sailor collar bustier designed for Christina Aguilera, a featured celebrity performer with the Pussycat Dolls at The Roxy, Hollywood.
"Pool Party"-Vintage kimono retro pool party suit, organza flower fascinator. Model Kelli Kickham.
"Custom designs"-Sneak peek custom mermaid gown seafoam toned embroidered & beaded English net, with a shell and freshwater pearl brooch designed for center back detail, inspired by my jewelry days.
"Runway finale, Mercedes Benz/Smashbox"-I’m wearing a vintage silk kimono bustier and a reincarnated cashmere wrap from my final LA show—Asian punk-inspired, with appliquéd Chinese characters. The sleeves say “peace and love.”
One of a kind archive
As I continue to evolve the collection, I’ve placed select one-of-a-kind bustiers and special occasion pieces from my archive on sale. You can explore them here: Bustiers and Gowns
“From red carpet to runway, each piece carries more than a silhouette—it holds a story. If this glimpse speaks to you, the full reflection is on Substack.”
Built to Embrace: The Art of the Bustier on Substack
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