Although the corset dates back to the 1600s — defined as a tightly fitting top with a boned bodice that supports and flatters the waist — it's transformed through the years. And while it can most recently be traced to the stage that is Netflix's "Bridgerton," the Regenycore trend has lent itself to a more modern interpretation of the look.
Some of our favorite iterations of the corset come in denim or leather with thick piping and straps, bound by a zipper at the back rather than lace ties. We're seeing people style them over big button-downs to cinch in and trace the shape of their figures or with nothing underneath, teamed with loose, low-slung pants or a blazer. If you want to forgo sleeves altogether, you also have the option of layering an underbust corset over a tee for extra dimension and a touch of edge, whereas you might have reached for a statement belt in the past. Corsets that come in eye-catching materials such as leather and luxe satin look best worn with denim or a casual pant that balances out the moment and makes your outfit instantly street style cool. Finally, you can use your corset top to put together a makeshift dress, simply by selecting a skirt in a similar tone.
If you need even more ideas because you haven't purchased your corset as part of a matching skirt or bolero set (there are plenty of those in existence, too), then read ahead for some easy ways to wear it.
FAQs
Corset Top + Matching Miniskirt + Matching Pumps + Shoulder Bag. The easiest way to style a corset top is by opting for a coordinated look. Pair your top with a matching miniskirt, matching heels, and a bold handbag for a no-fail way to style this sultry staple. Bonus points if you go for a bold hue or print.
How to stealth a corset? ›
Patterned Tops Hide Corset Lines
You're still cinched and supported, but it's just your secret. In general, clothing with textured fabrics can help hide the outlines of your corset. Clothing cut with an hourglass shape (wrap dresses, belted shirts, etc) will make your hourglass shape look more natural.
How do you style a corset top modest? ›
When styling a corset modestly, be sure to select an outfit that covers your midsection and arms. For the bottom portion of the outfit, choose items such as jeans or trousers which cover the legs completely. Select tops with higher necklines, like boatneck or turtleneck shirts.
Are corset tops out of style? ›
The lingerie-as-outerwear trend has been growing for sometime now: In recent seasons, the classic staple has been revived by way of several '-core' trends (renaissance, cottage, ballet), but the timeless piece has been prevalent for centuries and, evidently, will continue to be (not without some controversy though – ...
Should you wear a bra with a corset top? ›
Not only can wearing a bra provide additional comfort and security, but it can also add extra structure to better accentuate the silhouette provided by your corset. The presence of a bra with your corset gives extra stability for any clothing you wear on top or over it.
Do corset tops make you look slimmer? ›
Over time, your corset can literally change the shape of your waist helping you to achieve an hourglass shape with consistency! You'll really notice a difference when you're laced up though, most people see a reduction in their natural waist of 3” or more with the right size corset for their figure.
How do you wear a corset everyday? ›
Begin with just an hour or two a day and then work your way up. Once you are comfortable, we recommend corseting for eight hours a day or more for the best results. If you start by wearing a corset for one hour a day and then add a half hour each day, you should feel comfortable wearing it all day after a few weeks.
Can you wear shorts with a corset? ›
A corset top is perfect for warmer temperatures and pairs perfectly with shorts. Go for a casual look with basic bike shorts, reach for a classic denim pair, or dress up your corset with some structured bottoms.
Are corset tops in style in 2024? ›
Noughties tube tops are back, ppl. But forget the stretchy jersey iteration of 20 years ago – in 2024, it's all about the denim corset. We love Cos' take on the trend with its distressed denim wash and A-line silhouette.
Why do girls wear corset tops? ›
In the early days, corsets were designed to help shape the body into a more idealized form, though they often came at the expense of comfort. Today, corsets are more commonly worn as a fashion statement, though they can still be used to sculpt the body into the desired shape.
World War I also led to more women wearing uniforms and simple cotton designs, rather than rigid designs. Overall, corsets were no longer commonly worn due to a switch to more practical types of clothing. Later on, during the post-World War II era, corsets even became a symbol of male oppression among feminists.
How old should you be to wear a corset top? ›
Generally, the recommended age for wearing a corset is 18 or older since it could cause discomfort and even harm if worn by younger individuals.
Should I size up or down for corset tops? ›
We recommend only 3-5 inches smaller than your natural waist. New to corseting? Err on the side of too big and work your way into a smaller corset. Torso length: If you are tall and have lots of extra "fluff," you may find 8-10 inches is not too extreme a reduction because you have more area to spread your soft tissue.
How do you know if a corset fits you? ›
You'll want to select a size that's smaller than your natural waist* measurement. Our corsets should be up to 4" smaller than your natural waist for beginners or up to 6" smaller for more experienced corset wearers (and those with particularly squeezable midsections).
Are corset tops supposed to be tight? ›
A corset is designed to fit its wearer like a glove. It must be made for you, and you alone, in order to be comfortable. It's important that the corset fit, not just around the bust, waist, and hips, but in length as well. A properly fitted corset is designed to fit snugly, but not tight.
