17 Unique Ways to Style Your Corset Top

Updated on 3/30/2023 at 12:06 PM

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.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

Style your corset top over an oversize button-down and complete the look with biker shorts.

Corset Top Outfits

Wear a cropped corset with tapered, high-waisted trousers and give the look a sporty update with high-tops.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

Complement a white corset top with boning with a pair of mom jeans, strappy, minimalist sandals, and a pearl choker.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

Go for a '70s vibe by choosing a corset with a psychedelic print and finish it off with layered chains and flares.

Corset Top Outfits

Put together a monochrome outfit with a white corset layered under a cream blazer, then add denim Bermuda shorts and neutral-toned boots.

Corset Top Outfits

Style a plunging corset top over an A-line skirt to give off the illusion of a dress.

Corset Top Outfits

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.

Corset Top Outfits

For a streamlined corset top outfit, choose a full coverage design that's not cropped and finish with a formfitting, pocket-less legging.

Corset Top Outfits

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.