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.
A structured corset with extra boning doesn't just look good with a pair of low-waisted, loose-swinging jeans — it feels more comfortable worn that way too. Cap off the look with a pair of statement platforms.
Play up a strapless leather corset top with gold chains and a leather belt with hardware woven through the loops of your darkest dark denim.
Try teaming a satin corset top that has hook and eye closures down the front with a touch of athleisure at the bottom — whether it's a pair of wide-leg joggers or just a skirt with an elastic waistband.
A corset top that's both strapless and cropped can show a lot of skin. Hang a sweater over the shoulders to provide added warmth and also complement the shade of your pants.
Style your corset top over an oversize button-down and complete the look with biker shorts.
Wear a cropped corset with tapered, high-waisted trousers and give the look a sporty update with high-tops.
Tuck your corset top into a high-waisted skirt or pants and amp up the sheen of a satin style with plenty of layered necklaces that draw attention to the décolletage.
Complement a white corset top with boning with a pair of mom jeans, strappy, minimalist sandals, and a pearl choker.
While Zendaya's memorable Balmain outfit is luxe, it provides fodder for a classic corset top combination. Style a silhouette that's super-fitted with baggy silk cargos and pumps.
For an early-aughts-themed look, style a floral corset with a ruched slip skirt and bandana — extra points for lots of pops of pink.
If your corset top has intricate details such as sheer panels and embroidery, think simple and choose low-slung pants, matching sandals, and a leather shoulder bag.
Go for a '70s vibe by choosing a corset with a psychedelic print and finish it off with layered chains and flares.
Put together a monochrome outfit with a white corset layered under a cream blazer, then add denim Bermuda shorts and neutral-toned boots.
Style a plunging corset top over an A-line skirt to give off the illusion of a dress.
Don't knock the bolero set when it comes to choosing your corset top. Adding long sleeves provides an added touch of appeal, and still bares skin at the chest.
For a streamlined corset top outfit, choose a full coverage design that's not cropped and finish with a formfitting, pocket-less legging.
While it's certainly not a full top, a wide lace-up corset belt provides structure atop a loose, long-sleeved dress, instantly transforming your entire look by adding an extra dose of edge.