Monday, October 31, 2022

Corset Dresses Are Way More Versatile Than You Think

Let's all give a hand to Bridgerton and the power of influence the Regency-era drama has on the latest fashion trends. No, we're not saying that people have decided to suddenly throw aside their sweaters and jeans for lavishly embroidered ball gowns. Instead, the show has reignited styles like opera gloves, empire waists, and sequins. Even the show's undergarments have sparked a trend. Corsets of all shapes, lengths, and styles are back in a big way, and the corset dress reigns supreme. And while a Bridgerton character wouldn't ever let her underpinnings be seen, in 2022, that's the least of our worries. 

Just like there are varying types of corsets throughout history (no one was wearing Victorian-style, waist-cinching corsets in Regency-era column dresses, for example), there are plenty of ways to wear a modern corset dress. They're not all revealing or have visible boning (though we've found plenty of those options too).
To ease you into the trend, we've rounded up 16 corset dresses for first-timers and avid collectors alike. We want to assure you that there are various bustier-inspired frocks aside from the stereotypical mesh look, like casual dresses with a faint outline to even dreamy wedding guest-approved options. You'd be surprised how approachable the flirty frock could be and the difference the design makes in elevating a look.

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Casual Corset Dresses


Want to tap into the corset trend but a little nervous for a fully-fledged statement look? Opt for a casual frock woven with a more subtle style instead.

By Anthropologie Corset Shirt Dress, $, available at Anthropologie


Abercrombie & Fitch Tweed Corset Mini Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch


Theory Corset Tee Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon


Bailey Blue Pleated Corset Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

Going Out Corset Dresses


Give your loyal go-to LBD a rest and test out one of these sultry options. The four variations below exude similar flirty vibes but with a fresh angle. 

Bardot Neah Corset Faux Leather Midi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom


H&M Sleeveless Dress, $, available at H&M


Urban Outfitters Cali Corduroy Corset Mini Dress, $, available at Urban Outfitters


Karen Millen Compact Stretch Corset Bustier Mini Dress, $, available at KAREN MILLEN

Wedding Guest Corset Dresses


Bridgerton has held its reign in inspiring wedding dress trends. Although who says the bride could only wear the look? If you have upcoming nuptials, choose a wedding guest dress with a romantic fit.




Lace & Beads Plus Corset Tulle Midi Dress In Soft Floral, $, available at ASOS


Lulus Found Your Love Black Lace Sleeveless Midi Dres, $, available at Lulus


Zara Printed Corset Style Dress, $, available at Zara


Reformation Nadira Dress, $, available at Reformation

Luxe Corset Dresses


Whether it's a gala or black tie wedding, a luxe corset dress with an eye-catching print, hue, or tiered ruffles fits the requirement.

Bridal By Eloquii Corseted Tiered Dress, $, available at Eloquii


Katie May Take A Sip Dress, $, available at Revolve


Lavish Alice Satin Corset Mini Dress, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue


Free People Freya Maxi Dress, $, available at Free People

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

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