The Best Corset Tops
A corset top isn't exactly an everyday basic to have in your closet. While corsets aren't classic in the way white tees and blue jeans are, they're having a bit of a resurgence. Because as it turns out, there is a time and place for a corset top beyond dressing up for a costume party or themed night out. When paired with jeans or a casual bottom, these typically dressy and eye-catching tops can be the foundation for a provocative but casual outfit. We've got you covered with this roundup of our favorite corset tops, from vintage-inspired to modern and casual.
Charmian Steel-Boned Vintage Corset Top
Over the top
For those who love dressing up — and we don’t just mean in cocktail dresses, but in full-blown costume — this corset top was designed and made for you. No detail is spared for this intricate top, which comes in deep, rich hues and has faux leather accents throughout. The spiral steel-boned design cinches you in, so you get the true corset experience, but the side zipper makes it easy to slip in and out of. The corset comes in two pieces, an overbust corset and a shrug jacket with an adjustable high-neck collar. We love that with this piece, there’s a look for everyone and that you can change up your corset to match your need.
Pros:
- Extremely figure-flattering and body-shaping
- Comes in lots of colors and patterns
- Comes with two faux leather pouches
Cons:
- Some may want a more casual, everyday corset
Modegal Strapless Corset Top
Surprisingly chic
This corset top from Modegal is deceptively simple, with hidden features that elevate the piece. Layered with Spandex underneath, the corset is made of gauzy mesh chiffon that gives it a romantic feel. The boning in this top gives it structure, and despite how minimal this strapless corset looks, it provides excellent support no matter what size you are. We love that this top can be dressed up for a night out, but you can throw a cute jacket or button-up top for a cute daytime look. This is the top to go for if you want a corset that is simple, unfussy, and looks great with almost any outfit.
Pros:
- Anti-slip band along the top of the corset helps keep it in place
- Zipper in the back adds an edgy touch
- Comes in different colors
Cons:
- Not for those who prefer having a lace-up back corset
TOB Single-Row Clasp Crop Top
On trend and on point
Consider this crop top the ultimate modern and updated corset. It channels the look and feel of a corset with its figure-hugging design, tapered front, and clasp, but the straightforward design makes it a closet staple. Made of polyester and Spandex, the fabric does an amazing job of accentuating your curves, even without the boning that classic corsets have. The top feels like a flattering second skin that looks as great with a skirt as it does with denim shorts. You’ll be surprised at how often you reach for this top over and over to give your outfit an additional pop.
Pros:
- Especially ideal for curvier figures
- More suited for casual wear than other corset tops
- Comes in a variety of colors, including neutral-toned options that add a more subtle touch
Cons:
- Fabric may be too thick for some
Everlove Satin Lace-Up Bustier
An elevated look
There’s no doubt about it: this bustier is definitely foxy and suggestive, but also surprisingly versatile. The lace is beautiful and has so many pretty details that other corsets forgo. The boning is made of plastic, so it’s more comfortable than steel boning, but it’s still structured to provide support to the bust and shape the hip and abdomen area. The laces in the back mean you can tighten the corset as much as you’d like. While the corset looks great on its own, we recommend layering a T-shirt underneath for a punk look. You really can’t beat the lace design, which really takes this corset to the next level.
Pros:
- Perfect for those going for a sexier look
- Lace-up back is great for adjusting how tight you want the corset to be
- Comes in different colors
Cons:
- Some of the color options might be too sheer, depending on your taste
Kranchungel Faux Leather Zipper Corset
The classic leather
This is the punk rock corset of our dreams. It’s trendy and fashionable, but its faux leather design gives it a timeless look. We like the seam details throughout the corset, and don’t let the faux material fool you — the faux leather is still quality and feels great on. This corset’s comfortability is one of the standout qualities for us. The plastic boning is gentle on your figure, for those who don’t need something that really cinches in your body. We see this as a very ideal “in-between” corset that is a happy medium between casual and overly dressy.
Pros:
- Versatile as a base piece to dress up, especially for superhero costumes
- Lightweight and easy to wear
- Really easy to slip on and off
Cons:
- Boning might be too weak for some
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “waist training”?
Corsets have a long history and certain traditions that are good to aware of, though unnecessary for the modern corset-wearer. Waist training is one of them; it’s the process of tightening a corset over a period of time — anywhere from weeks to months — to pull in the floating ribs and achieve a smaller waist. It was considered fashionable in the 1800s, but definitely isn’t something you need to practice, especially if you’re just wearing a corset for fun.
What are the origins of the corset?
Historically, the corset was a supportive undergarment, though it has evolved in use and wear. In sixteenth-century Europe, corsets were popular for shaping women’s figures, especially pulling in the waist. Over time, corsets were also worn as an outer garment. These days, corsets typically don’t have the classic whalebone construction that was so constricting for women, and they can be worn for both casual and dress-up occasions.
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.