Thanks so much for replying, sorry that I missed the “facilities” part. Your advice is very helpful! 🙂 I was panicking a bit but I feel better

Hi Jess, Congrats on your upcoming wedding!
You’ll find this blog post helpful on getting around, even without wearing a corset with your hoop (which I do recommend to support the lower back and even out the weight around the hips). https://historicalsewing.com/what-everyone-ought-to-know-about-wearing-a-victorian-corset

I do mention using the facilities in the post above, but the key is to walk in and face the wall and sit “backwards” on the commode. Split crotch drawers are a must to do this if wearing a corset. Although, without a corset, you can still successfully accomplish the task facing to the wall with the hoop and skirts staying behind you.

A modesty petticoat or slip is recommended under the hoop if you feel too “exposed”. But it’s not necessary. A narrow slip down to the knee level is all you need.

I know the reason for lifting the back. But with any very stiff hoop (might not work for a lighter one), pushing down on the front also lifts the back (how the “King and I” humor works). I approach from the front, slightly from the side to double check my aim, glancing back most of the time. A slight rise up and forward (sort of bounce to tiptoe) and a press down on the top, front part of the skirt lifts and angles the back a smidge… Continuing to hold /press the front down while sitting down keeps the skirts from hooking onto the front of the chair, and almost always settle nicely. Having the habit of sitting near the edge, because of my short legs helps the don’t sit too far back part too.

I can’t remember which actresses I’ve seen in movie or on stage do similar… But it’s often seen as a sort of a sway and settle graceful dance like movement, when the elegant ones do it (nope, mine will never look like that).

Lol that is more challenging than it looks. Both times I was in a cast for that (school and community, not paid type) we practiced taking a bit of a grab and wrist twist to make sure they flipped up. They don’t always do such a noticeable thing… Just often 😄

Rather too late to suggest for you, but for others…. My sister had a similar dress. She found that the hoop and it’s covering tulle was attached at the waist… And easily unattached and stepped out of, in front of the stall. Slightly more interesting to step back into the center, but wasn’t too bad holding the front up a bit and helped by a bridesmaid to step correctly (and balance help) and re-hook, etc. Would have been less hassle with a less modern toilet area, but.. It worked.

And when wearing one that can fit into the area… Done at a Renaissance festival… The easy is back to the door, and literally hook the lowest layer over your shoulders (if large enough), tucking the skirt between it and you… Will keep it out of the way, and not the hazard of drooping/dragging in something. Not elegant, but… Works.

Hope all went well!