How To Style A Corset This Spring Without Feeling Overly Trendy

A corset is probably not a priority on your winter shopping list right now. This often-constricting underpinning doesn’t have the shiniest track record when it comes to comfortability. Its history of placing a tad too much emphasis on slimming down a woman’s waist silhouette can make the idea of how to style a corset feel anti-feminist in a way — but that mood (and approach) seems to be shifting. For starters, designers have reimagined this boudoir-inspired staple for the modern age with iterations that integrate stretchier fabrics, artistic detailing, as well as unique textures and prints.

The biggest indicator that corsetry is a trend worth investing in, however, is by looking at the streets or on Instagram. Over the last several years, bustier tops have pushed beyond the borders of the bedroom and into the daylight as a legitimate layering piece. Celebrity trendsetters like Bella Hadid and Rihanna normalized the idea of wearing a corset with an oversized blazer and vintage jeans. In turn, influencers and fashion week attendees styled their bustiers in other innovative ways, layered over everyday pieces like white button-down shirts and printed dresses. All this to say, the 2022 corsets look quite different from their 19th century predecessors — and for the better.

If you’re wondering how you’d style the bodycon garment during the colder months, there are several outfits you can try. If you live in Miami or Los Angeles, simply wear your corset with a skirt or pants. Should you reside somewhere that’s prone to snowstorms like New York City, layer it over a statement collar blouse or underneath a blazer. Ahead, find 15 brilliant ways you can rock a corset on the daily.

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Over A Turtleneck

Yes, you can still enjoy a corset look in the depths of winter. Simply make it your final top layer, throwing it over your go-to turtleneck and blazer duo.

LaQuan Smith Leather Corset Top$950See On Moda Operandi

Bright & Bold

Embrace color this season with a vibrant corset paired with matching pants and a contrasting topper (that’s equally bright!).

MIAOUBlue Venus Corset$245See On SSENSE

Over A Tailored Jacket

Once the temperatures drop, don’t be afraid to stack your layers. One genius way to make your corset more work-friendly is by wearing it over a tailored jacket. (Make sure to size up for optimal breathing room.)

Christopher John RogersTop Stitch Corset$1,295See On Saks Fifth Avenue

With Shiny Leather & Statement Jewelry

Make your next corset outfit even more impactful by throwing on a shiny leather coat and accessorizing with an all-out necklace stack. Then, finish off your look with a pair of hoop earrings and statement-making headwear.

all is a gentle springCountryside Tapestry Corset$244See On all is a gentle spring

As A Belt

Turn your billowy sweater dress into a figure-hugging one by pairing it with an underbust corset. The dicey garment will basically serve the same purpose as a chunky belt, accentuating your waist in an unconventional, street style-worthy manner.

AlaiaLarge Zip Bustier Belt$1,490See On FWRD

Standout Suiting

Do you want to know the simplest way to liven up a classic suit? Add a corset. This layering trick adds dimension in a unique way and is best achieved by wearing it over a tee, thin sweater, or button-down shirt.

Dion Lee SUSPENDED UTILITY CORSET$750$600See On Dion Lee

With Autumnal Staples

A vintage-inspired corset is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of what goes best with a leather jacket and wool scarf, but as proven above, it works. For cooler weather, consider layering a second-skin turtleneck underneath.

Marianna SenchinaClaire Corset Top$652$465See On Marianna Senchina

Over A T-Shirt Dress

Corsets intrinsically feel old-world and feminine, which is why they are the perfect candidate for styling with something that contrasts. Next time, layer it over an oversized T-shirt dress to bring definition to your silhouette. This is a simple but Instagram-worthy outfit.

Nubian SkinThe Parris Corset in Caramel£125£100See On Nubian Skin

In Place Of A Bodysuit

Bodysuits and jeans are a common combination to throw together without having to worry about tucking or pulling. In the spirit of mixing things up, swap out your one-piece for a corset this fall. Unsurprisingly, it makes for a chic weekend outing ensemble.

Boys LieLavender Boys Lie Corset$150See On Boys Lie

Denim Nouveau

When you slip into a long-sleeve dress, it's not an automatic thought to layer something fitted over the top. But, adding a contrasting denim corset is a cool way to break up a printed style.

Sami Miro VintageCorset Top$405See On Revolve

As A WFH Upgrade

To mix up your work-from-home style, try skipping your usual biker shorts or sweats for relaxed trousers and a structured top.

With Jean Carla Corset$209See On With Jean

Below A Leather Jacket

Corsets and leather jackets are two edgy staples that can balance out an ultra-feminine dress. Pick your favorite fancy floral number and layer something sleek and structured on top.

STAUDAlice Vegan Leather Corset Top$250$175See On Staud

Pop of Print

No need to stick to neutrals — a floral corset is a perfectly fine (and fun) way to embrace the look for fall. Layer on a shrunken cardigan for an extra on-trend take for fall/winter 2021 season.

Urban Outfitters Liv Jacquard Bustier Top$149See On Urban Outfitters

'90s-Inspired

Denim on denim was perfected in the '90s by Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, but you can bring it into the current year, too. A denim bustier can be styled with jeans for a matchy-matchy look, or with trousers for something a little bit more subdued.

Alessandra Rich Denim Corset Top$525See On Moda Operandi

Over A Statement Collar Blouse

Every outfit is made more interesting when you add in a third piece. Finish off your go-to statement collar button-down top with a corset. You can also leave the lower half of the blouse unbuttoned for a final playful touch.

Free People Lights Out Corset$78See On Free People

This article was originally published on Oct. 2, 2020

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