The corset has come a long way. Gone With The Wind’s Scarlet O’ Hara and Titanic’s Rose probably wouldn’t hate the corset today. The once-restrictive garment has been used to ‘train’ women’s waist in the past, to fit unrealistic body standards. But in the era of body-loving shapewear, this cancelled trend gets a do-over, as the flag bearer of body positivity. Just look at Olivia Rodrigo, who casually slips into a corset and charm necklaces to vandalise a bedroom in Good 4 U.
Homegrown designers are re-imagining corsets as outerwear which highlights curves but prioritises comfort. Masaba Gupta just introduced the corset lehenga skirt, which elongates the waist but also gives you room to move around freely.
Deepika Padukone loves wearing her Dolce & Gabbana corsets over shirts, while Sonam Kapoor styles her Vivienne Westwood corset as a party number. Depending on the occasion, you can mix and match corsets with denim, leather bottoms or even athleisure options.
In 2022, buying a corset is easy and should really feature on your self-love checklist. Homegrown labels are offering a vast selection of cuts and sizes and you’ll be spoilt for choice:
Lea Clothing Co.
Lavanya Aneja’s brand focuses on the versatility of corsets. With a vision to bring together sustainable fashion and female empowerment, Lea Clothing Co. is creating flattering silhouettes for all body types.
You’ll spot a range of pastels that add a touch of elegance to hard-bodied corsets. Some of their clever designs use geometric lines that taper from the top, down to the waist, giving the illusion of an hourglass.
Lea Clothing Co. makes corset fits in the form of tops and dresses with zippers or tie-up backs that make them comfortable and easy to style. Their signature designs have a combination of sheer and lace detailing and their plus-size fits in materials like stretch satin and crepe add definition without compromising on comfort.
Saanjh by Lea is the sister brand that offers bustiers and size-inclusive corsets for the cocktail wear memo so they can seamlessly fit in with sarees and lehengas. So, if you’re planning to shop pearl-embellished bustiers or boned mermaid corsets for your next soiree, you know where to shop!
Shop here: https://leaclothingco.com/ and https://saanjhbylea.com/
The Lux Bug
Looking for Pinterest-inspired corset fits? The Lux Bug has structured corsets that look like something Kendall Jenner would wear to an after-party. From satin highlights to ruched detailing and mesh sleeves, the Lux Bug’s corset tops are all about the oomph.
Most of their corset dresses are skin-hugging but are designed to be comfortable and provide extra support. You’ll also spot flattering underwiring, useful cup lifts and stretchy fits.
One of their signature pieces is a glossy, biker-style corset made with faux leather. The fabric gives great structure to the fit, making it the perfect date night corset!
Shop here: https://theluxbugofficial.com/
Liyokki
The slow fashion brand creates unique, everyday corsets with cute pastels, floral prints and racy lace elements. While some of their corsets give off a cheeky Bridgerton vibe, some are playful and inspired by popular culture. Liyokki offers comfortable lycra-lined pieces that can be worn for long hours.
A classic bodice is always a good thing to own but you can also go for fun mesh intervention or a flowy, shoulder-drop detail that adds definition to your fits.
The colours and prints are versatile and work for both daywear and the after-dark memo. The brand offers a wide range of sizes and you’ll even spot size 6XL corsets, which are rare in the ready-to-wear circuit. Liyokki also introduced faux leather corsets that feature thick gold link chains as straps!
Shop here: https://liyokki.com/