You will want to wear something under your corset. The fabric is rough and it will be very uncomfortable against your skin.  In the day ladies would have worn a chemise but you can substitute a camisole, tee shirt or tank.

Formal corset:

Loosen both laces but do not completely unlace it. You may want to tie the ends together to keep them from pulling out. Put it on and fasten the busk up the front. It’s easiest if you press your left hand into your side to guide the busk together, and then hook the right side. It may help to fasten the second to the bottom stud and work your way up, then come back and do the bottom one. Start tightening the laces it at the top. It should be snug enough to hold it in place but not tight over the ribs. At the waist it can be as tight as you wish. Tie the lower lacing last. Adjust the laces as needed.  The lower lace will have the greatest control over your waist size.  When it is on properly it will push your bust up and out. The top of the corset should be at your nipples and your breasts should be slightly overflowing. I find it helpful to mark the laces where they tie so that I can easily get it to the proper size the next time I put it on.

Working corset:

Loosen both laces but do not completely unlace it. Put it on and fasten the hooks up the front. (It’s easiest if you start at the bottom and work your way up.) Have someone tighten the laces up the back for you. Start at the top. It should be snug enough to hold it in place but not tight over the ribs. At the waist it can be as tight as you wish. Tie the lower lacing last.  The lower lace will have the greatest control over your waist size.  Adjust the lacings as needed. When it is on properly it will push your bust up and out. The top of the corset should be at your nipples and your breasts should be slightly overflowing. Once the corset is properly fitted, there is no need to adjust the lacing, unless there is a change in your weight.