It's been under the radar for a while, but the corset top is set to make a big comeback this Summer. This time around the look is slightly less formal and the fabric choices more unusual than in the past. This isn't about underwear-as-outerwear, so to get it right avoid cliches like satin, deep pointed shapes and lace overlays and go for crisper fabrics like broiderie anglaise and straight cut hems (perhaps belted at the waist for even more of an hourglass shape). Here's our top picks from the high street.
Strapless eyelet poplin top $36 Rampage and striped lace-front top £32 Topshop.
- mix these fresh-looking tops with Summer white and navy and a pair of wedge sandals.
Animal print with pink trim £29.99 and pink spotted £12.99 both River Island.
- go retro with these girly styles by teaming them with pencil skirts. Very Dita Von Teese.
Black draped £25 Miss Selfridge and white broiderie anglaise £22 ASOS.com
- The Grecian draped corset is a good way to skim curves but the folds also adds bulk so be careful! Keep the bottom slim to even it out. White broiderie anglaise is very fresh and Summery. Team it with a great skirt or edgy denim.
If you're going to give this look a go, be careful about teaming your corset top with jeans. Last time this trend was big, there were far too many girls out on the town in skintight satin, low slung jeans, stiletto shoes and enough cleavage to park a bike in. Wearing a corsets and jeans is a tired old look if you don't execute it properly. Pick a pair of modern looking jeans (not necessarily skinny ones, but well-cut, sharp shapes) keep your accessories modern and minimal, and go for style-conscious shoes; wedges, stacked wooden heels or round toes instead of pointed toes and sparkly sandals which run the risk of looking a bit 2001!
