What is grace?
Grace — is an item of women's underwear that combines a bra and an elastic corset that fits snugly around the torso and ends at the hip line.
Historically, this wardrobe item appeared in the early 20th century. The invention of elastic fabrics made it possible to create a softer and more comfortable alternative to the rigid classic corset.
The main difference between a grace corset and a traditional corset is the lack of tight lacing and rigid metal boning. Flexible corset inserts and high-density material are used to shape the silhouette. Unlike a bodysuit, a classic grace corset does not have a groin fastening, leaves the hips exposed, and is often complemented by garter straps.
Distinctive features
The design includes built-in cups for bust support, which can be soft or underwired. Vertical relief seams provide shaping of the waist and abdomen.
Dense, highly stretchable materials are used for sewing: elastane, polyamide, spandex, and special corset mesh. These fabrics create the necessary compression effect and smooth the silhouette.
The fastening is usually a multi-row panel with hooks located on the back or front. Less commonly, a hidden zipper is integrated into the design. The bottom of the bra often features removable or sewn-in straps for securing stockings. A shorter version, the semi-breasted bra (bustier), also exists, ending just at the waist.
How to wear and what to combine with
Smooth, seamless, nude-colored bras are used as shapewear. They are worn under form-fitting evening dresses, sheath dresses, and tailored suits to create a smooth silhouette without visible seams or folds.
Decorative lace, silk, or satin pieces are a perfect addition to a romantic or boudoir wardrobe. They are traditionally paired with stockings and long silk robes.
In modern fashion, lace or thick minimalist graces can play the role of a stand-alone top.
For evening wear, the graceful skirt is styled as part of an evening look. It's worn under an unbuttoned, oversized jacket, a classic tuxedo, or a leather jacket. Palazzo pants or high-waisted maxi skirts are chosen for the bottom to balance the proportions and conceal the hem of the underwear.
