Yep. 100% necessary to have stays for the project. It's just beyond the scope of this book. American Duchess is also putting out a new book on 18th century hair and makeup, which has me giddy with excitement. I've wanted Kendra Van Cleave's book and heard excellent reviews but no matter how good it is, it's not $794 good. There's supposed to be a PoD version of it coming out "soon" but no date yet.