Just because we’ve celebrated a few extra birthdays doesn’t mean we can’t have fun with what’s in fashion right now. One of the more surprising trends making a strong comeback? The corset top! Now, before you roll your eyes and think “that’s for the 20-somethings,” let me tell you: there are plenty of ways to style a corset that feel chic, wearable, and age-appropriate, without losing the fun.
Quote of the day: “Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently.” Marie Forleo
This all started when my friend, Mireille, shared that she thrifted a corset, and I gave her a couple of unasked-for ideas of how to style it–really. AND then I thought it would be twice as fun to see both of us style a corset. That’s why you should click over to her blog post after reading this, because her corset is different than mine and she came up with other ideas (one that I would definitely have put into play if she hadn’t).
I’m sharing both a white corset top as well as my pink gingham one in a variety of outfits, and spoiler alert: I absolutely loved how versatile the outfits turned out to be.
What I really hope, whether you like these or not, is that you take this as proof that no matter your age, you can absolutely rock a corset top with flair and confidence.
With these examples, you may find that you like the ideas where there is contrast between the corset and its layers, or not as much contrast. It’s good to analyze the “why” you like/dislike a look.
While it takes more “work” to layer items you wouldn’t wear on their own, it can create a multitude of amazing looks. It’s not much different than my examples with a sheer top.
Wearing the corset over a plaid button-up might be my favorite unexpected twist. The juxtaposition of masculine flannel and the feminine structure (along with the satin material) adds so much visual interest.
I paired this combo with denim Bermuda shorts and added yellow sneakers.
This look plays with proportions, dichotomy, and pops of color all in one. Maybe it’s not the best idea for first timers to style a corset, but you can always just take one of these ideas to use.
I will share that my husband did not like this look, and maybe you agree with him. But as I always say, you won’t know until you try it. Maybe if I wore a red skirt with the plaid and the corset, it would look like a dress?
So many options…so little time.
When you have more than 1 of the same item/accessory, I’ve learned it can be fun to combine them.
For example, remember when we layered belts, scarves, and even dresses? It’s proof of how layering can transform your outfits.
For this idea, I layered my pink gingham corset over the longer white corset and styled it with a navy-and-white striped midi skirt. This look feels a little nautical, a little retro, and all kinds of wearable for warmer months.
Style tip: Don’t feel limited to wearing your corset alone. Always remember there are 2 versions of layering…OVER and UNDER.
I couldn’t resist this tonal look with a pastel pink short-sleeve sweater and a coordinating pencil skirt. I popped the corset right on top of a t-shirt, almost like a vest.
For reference, my t-shirt is a Halftee, so there is no bulk under the midsection. Interested in Halftees?? Here is an article about this exact one, and use code Jtouch20 for 20% off.
One reason I think this looks good is how the corset and t-shirt almost blend together.
Style tip: This is a great example of how to style a corset without showing too much skin. I know many of us prefer to keep the arms or chest a little more covered, and this layered outfit proves you can still look sophisticated and trendy while doing just that.
It’s no different than when I styled scarves as tops over a t-shirt.
This outfit feels so romantic! I was going to wear the corset by itself, but then I remembered this hand-knit shrug that I made ages ago. It seemed perfect paired with it.
While the top and skirt aren’t the same shades…one is more ivory while the other is white, I Love the pairing. Other stylists would say you shouldn’t combine cool and warm colors, yet artists do it all the time, and so should we.
White and ivory seem as natural together as black and grey.
The skirt cracks me up. Why?
Because it’s an athletic skort. But I bet you couldn’t tell that from these photos. Even in person, you’d be hard pressed to realize the skirt is athleisure wear unless you finger the material or are sitting close to me.
Insider tip: It’s another perfect example of how we shouldn’t categorize our clothing. Workout wear, swim tankinis, and sometimes even sleepwear can work for other outfits.
Right now, I love the idea of shoes that stand out instead of matching. Usually, I will try to copy the color of my shoes with my jewelry or eyeglasses, but this time I let the red go rogue.
Style tip: Don’t let the word corset intimidate you. Just because someone named an item that reminds you of your grandmother’s tightly laced Victorian undergarment doesn’t mean it’s not wearable. Today’s versions often have stretch, zippers, and are made to show off, not hide.
Here’s one for my artsy gals! I styled the corset over a sheer polka-dot blouse with a pair of patchwork pants. The mix of textures, prints, and unexpected shapes created one of my favorite looks of the day.
I think the sheer ties draping down the back make it look almost bridal.
This sheer top was the focus of a post showcasing ways to layer sheer tops. It’s one of those pieces that, yes, you need to wear it with something else, but it gives outfits a lovely vibe.
Style tip: If you love mixing styles, then layering a corset over any statement sleeve blouse is your ticket to an outfit that feels very editorial. If you start exploring Pinterest by searching corset outfits, you’ll find a ton of options where the corset is layered over an oversized white blouse or one with ruffled sleeves.
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I get it—corsets might feel a bit edgy or out of place if you haven’t worn one before. But just like any clothing item, it’s all about how you interpret it. Here are a few tips if you’re new to the idea:
Fashion should be fun, and there’s something liberating about breaking out of your usual style box. Just because a trend started with the younger crowd doesn’t mean it can’t be reimagined for us seasoned style stars.
Make sure to check out Mireille’s ideas as well. Seeing lots of inspiration is one way to make it feel more like something we can all have fun styling.
I encourage you to think differently about clothing and see how it makes you feel. No rule says you have to dress “your age” (whatever that means!). If you want to style a corset and feel fabulous, go for it.
After all, our style isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out, having fun, and expressing who we are.
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