Flirty, feminine corset tops are pretty much everywhere these days. Lingerie-inspired looks are so feminine and sexy, a perfect fit for the must-have coquette trend. So how do they work, and how do you style corset tops? If you’re into the trend but need a little extra guidance, check out our guide to the different types of corsets–and how to wear them–ahead.
Corsets vs Bustiers: What’s The Difference?
When people talk about corset tops, they’re generally referring to any structured top that emphasizes the waist and bust. The structure is important; corset tops often feature reinforcement or even boning to create their strong silhouette. But there’s another type of top that also has these features: the bustier top. Corset tops and bustier tops are very similar to each other, and the differences are subtle.
Historically, corsets were undergarments that provided shape and support. While they have a bad reputation for being tight and constricting, the trend of tight-waist corsets was not the historical norm. Instead, for hundreds of years, women wore corsets to support their bosom and waist from below. The cinches, hooks, and laces worked together to create support that was often surprisingly flexible. Today’s corset tops still offer support; they’re more rigid than bustier tops, and often have cinches or laces for a customized fit. However, “fake” corset tops that have the look without the laces are super popular. Plus, they’re now considered acceptable going-out wear!
Bustiers were a different type of underwear entirely–the bustier was designed to boost the bust. Unlike corsets, bustiers were always meant to be sexy! Bustiers offer less support than corsets, and don’t cinch the waist. Bustier tops rarely have laces, and typically have built-in bra cups and mesh panels for support.
I know–that’s a lot of explanation for two very similar top styles, especially because bustier tops are typically lumped in with corset tops! But here’s why it matters: If you prefer more structure, go for a corset top. Since it’s often difficult to wear a bra with this type of top, if you’ve got a larger cup size, the extra support that a corset top offers can be more comfortable for you.
Now that you know what you’re looking for, take a look at some chic corset tops!
Types of Corset Tops:
Floral Corset Tops
Floral corset tops are doubly sweet! Style them with wide-leg pants or jeans to balance the girliness, or pair with a flouncy skirt for extra femininity. And of course, bows are always appreciated!
Lace-Up Corset Tops
Lean into the historical, classic vibe of a lace-up corset top. These tops are designed to be open, so if you’re worried about the chill or want to cover up a little more, keep a slouchy, oversized cardigan handy, or try layering over a button-up top!
Lace Corset Tops
Lace corset tops are the ultimate blend of romantic and edgy, making a statement whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual. This is as lingerie-adjacent as it gets when it comes to corset tops, so you can lean into that boudoir vibe, or you can style a lace corset with chunky knits and jeans to tone down the va-va-voom factor. It’s all about your comfort level.
Corset Two Piece Sets
A corset and shorts set lets you lean into the trend while giving the polished one-and-done feeling of a dress. Plus, you’ll have options beyond that. Two-piece sets are the ultimate outfit hack: Wear both pieces for flawless matching or swap out the top or bottom for even more outfit options!
Puff Sleeve Corset Tops
The sweetness of a puff sleeve adds both a little more charm and a little more coverage if that’s what you’re after. Style yours with a sweet skirt for a dreamy cottagecore look, or wear a puff sleeve corset top with your favorite jeans for a flirty take on the girl next door.
