How to style the corset trend, according to 9 Australian creatives
IMAGE VIA @JASMIN.AMMA/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY IZZY WIGHT
Here ye, here ye.
It’s a rare moment of sartorial wonder when a garment has been historically favoured by 18th-century aristocrats, bodice-ripping harlots, Madonna and – as of recently – every trendy young person on Instagram. Once widely regarded as ‘a patriarchal instrument of torture that deformed the female body’, corsets are the latest fashion item to take the internet in a chokehold (or a waist cinch, more appropriately).
Kickstarted with the 2020 Bridgerton ‘Regencycore’ revival, corsets have quickly become a structured staple in the wardrobes of the global fashion set. And instead of crushing our ribs and hoisting our boobs beside our ears, the modern corset comes in a variety of playful new iterations, designed to comfortably fit a size-inclusive range of bodies.
For more fashion news, shoots and features, head to our Fashion section.
Following the long-suffering history of ye old sweeties before us, it’s only fair that the controversial corset has finally earned a spot in our cold, jaded, feminist hearts. For more inspo on how to join the renaissance, I asked Australian creatives to show us how they style corsets.
Steph, co-founder of Goodspace
View this post on Instagram
I really just love anything from Dyspnea and this corset was the first garment I ever owned. I love that despite the pink sequins, it’s a super versatile layering piece and adds a sexy contrast to a more casual outfit. Add in some chunky mules and you’ve got yourself an outfit!
Uma, Re.Uma founder
View this post on Instagram
I like to let my corsets do all the talking so with this outfit, I decided to pair my bold cobalt blue Re.Uma corset with monochromatic basics. I also love to play with the timeless femininity of the corset by pairing it with a masculine oversized boyfriend blazer, tailored suit pants and a crisp white shirt, accessorized with some gold jewellery.
Corsets are my favourite wardrobe item and I love styling them in diferent ways – baggy Levi’s and sneakers or a mini skirt and knee-high boots.
Wendy, ceramicist and designer
View this post on Instagram
I’m wearing a denim corset handmade by Brisbane sister-run label, Bulley Bulley. I’ve layered a Clan Clan Clan shirt underneath with this beautiful desert landscape print and completed the fit with some vintage off-white denim jeans and Hoka sneakers.
It’s a simple look and helps make the otherwise ultra-feminine corset more casual and androgynous. It sort of makes me feel like I’m wearing armour.
Madeline, Client Care Manager at En Gold
View this post on Instagram
I’ve styled my Dion Lee corset with a suit jacket and mini skirt. I find wearing a blazer makes me feel empowered in a very effortlessly chic way; I love the minimalistic aesthetic of this look. Adding a corset is a way to make a structured outfit a little more fun.
Jameen and Rachel, founders of Dyspnea
View this post on Instagram
Jameen: A corset makes every beige-looking outfit pop and adds instant sass. They’re so flattering and always give the right amount of attitude.
Rachel: As a curvier gal, I can be a little picky when it comes to crafting my outfits. I don’t like anything too loose or frumpy – which can be hard to find. A corset gives me definition, so I can wear a baggy tee whilst still showing off my curves.
Wen, jeweller and content creator
View this post on Instagram
I think corsets are definitely a staple piece in my closet. I usually like to pair them with unisex items like cargo pants, baseball hats, slacks and sneakers, just because I prefer a more androgynous look.
For this fit, I went for an earthy palette and mixed different textures like the mesh top, black leather shoes, canvas bag and shiny silver chain – everything I love.
Madison, hairdresser
View this post on Instagram
If I’m honest, this is actually one of my best friend Mima’s corsets because we often share clothes. She got it from Melbourne brand Mess Bags, who specialise in handmade leather goods. I paired it with my boyfriend’s Hoddle tee and a pair of Telfar track pants designed for the Liberian Olympic team.
Corsets are a great outfit addition for shape, interest and sex appeal. The whole ‘sexy without caring’ trend is very in right now.
Raquelle, content creator
View this post on Instagram
My look combines elements from different eras. We have the ’60s style mini skirt, the ’70s flare sleeve top, early 2000s sunglasses and a renaissance corset. I love creating eclectic outfits using contrasting textures, styles and patterns. More is more. Minimalism? I don’t know her.
Jasmin, model
View this post on Instagram
This is one of my favourite looks – my Dion Lee corset, vintage Levi’s and a pair of Tabis in all white. Heavenly! My favourite way to wear a corset is by pairing it with something slightly understated, like jeans or slacks.
I particularly love Dion Lee’s take on the corset; it’s androgynous, edgy and totally sexy. It adds just enough drama and makes for a surprisingly wearable statement piece.
Find more ways to make corsets work in your wardrobe here.
Liked this? You’ll love these...
