What is a corset?
Corset — is a tight-fitting garment designed to support the bust, accentuate the waistline and shape the torso.
The design features rigid or semi-rigid inserts (bones) made of metal, plastic, or whalebone. A lacing system or special fasteners, such as busks and hooks, are used for cinching. Originally, a corset was an item of underwear designed for rigid body shaping.
In the modern wardrobe, it has transformed into a standalone outerwear item. Designers use flexible materials such as mesh and elastane, so the drawstring is primarily decorative.
Main types
- Classic overbust corset It completely covers and supports the bust, ending at the hips or waist. It can be worn as a standalone top without a bra.
- Underbust corset Starts just below the bust line. It accentuates the waist, smooths the stomach line, and should be worn over other clothing, such as a shirt or dress.
- Corset top (bustier) A shorter version with soft cups and decorative underwire. These styles are often made of denim, satin, or lace and don't require much compression.
- Corset belt (waist cincher) A cincher is a wide belt, 15–20 centimeters high, with lacing or buckles. Its purpose is to accentuate the waistline.
What to combine with
Modern corset styling is built on a play of contrasts. A dressy corset top in silk, velvet, or lace is paired with relaxed bottoms: wide-leg jeans, cargo pants, and chunky sneakers.
For a layered look at the office, wear an underbust corset or a wide corset belt over a crisp, oversized white men's-style shirt and classic trousers. For evening looks, pair a classic underbust corset with a flowing maxi skirt (slip skirt) or wide-leg palazzo pants.
To tone down the garment's sexuality, stylists use layering techniques. They layer a voluminous, straight-cut jacket, a leather biker jacket, or a thick, chunky-knit cardigan over the corset.
