L'Atelier de LaFleur specialises in botanically-themed corsetry, clothing, and accessories with an emphasis on a timeless aesthetic, impeccable fit, and finishes that can only be achieved by hand. Drawing inspiration from various eras in history and fantasy, my corsets echo the past, yet are comfortably at home as a special piece in your wardrobe. Each garment is lovingly cut and sewn by a single person, with​ great care and attention to detail in Toronto, Ontario.

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I'm Gillian (Mina LaFleur), also known as The Fleurishist and I've been fitting bespoke corsets professionally for twenty five years. My in-person and remote fitting process allows clients from near and far to enjoy the exquisite fit of a custom corset. Evermore inspired by nature, since 2017 I've pursued a more artistic and ethereal aesthetic for L'Atelier de LaFleur beginning with the first piece from the Arboresque project, Bur Oak. Since then, I've been privileged to work with some of the loveliest people who have allowed me to bring their dream corsets to life in some of my most elaborate work yet. I love working with clients that have a creative bud of an idea or theme that I can expand on and see to full bloom. Whether your fairytale is a once-in-a-lifetime event or a little everyday magic, I would love to create something special with you.

 

I have trained as a milliner with Gail Osaduke, (known to many simply as "The Hat Lady") assisting her for many years with hats and bridal headwear.  As a retired performer and frequent corset-wearer, I understand the needs of my burlesque clients, those who want to lace in for special occasions, and those who are dedicated to more regular wear. For three years, I worked primarily creating costumes for Cirque Du Soleil and trained in the millinery department at their headquarters in Montreal. I've had the privilege of creating costumes, hats, and corsets for the Cirque Du Soleil productions Viva Elvis, Zumanity (designed by Thierry Mugler), Ka, and Quidam, as well as various film and theatre productions. More recently, I have been learning the art of shoemaking as a stitcher for footwear for the film industry as well as making start-to-finish custom shoes of my own. It's a life-long dream come true!

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My husband Shaun is our wonderful manager, sometimes photographer, and keeps everything running smoothly. He sometimes attends to inquiries so I am able to keep up with my sewing and consultations.
 

What People Are Saying

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"I had an opportunity a couple years back to travel to China with my husband. While there, I had one thing on my mind, SILK!!! for corsets of course! I brought back four beautiful unique silks, for four corsets. I have only had one made so far, and went to the best corset maker I know. Mina I still can't thank you enough for your amazing work. I get comments still from all over the globe! It's truly breath-taking..."​

-Carolyn K.​

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"Mina is a lady in every sense of the word.  Collaborating with her was an absolute joy!  The gown that she created for me is one of my most prized possessions, and truly a work of art. I happily look forward to working with her in the future!"

-Tiffany D.