In form for winters: Here’s a guide to ace the body-fitting fashion with corsets

With the ever-growing love for form-fitting silhouette, classic corset apparels and bodycon items are making their way to the Indian wardrobes more than ever. While a classic age corset--a bust-to-waist support garment-- was worn to train the torso into a desired shape accentuating the bust and the waist, modern-age corsets have only evolved to not flatter the body type, but also work as individual items in comfortable fabrics as well as a complimenting accessory to other elements of the top wear.

From tube-styled to strappy tank items, front and back-string styles to plain and ribbed, corsets are now available in all forms and colours in online and offline fashion markets. These have stood out among fashion enthusiasts to be complementing all body types and are available in different fabrics to pick and choose from in-sync with the season's needs, thereby further encouraging the craze for body-hugging fashion.

In 2022, pairing jackets, shrugs and shirts with these clean-cut top-wears has become a trendy go-to option in winters to acquire the chic look. Not only is this offering people options to mix and match elements to create multiple outfits according to the weather, but is also allowing them to restrict the expenses on updating their wardrobe often.

Aashna Bhagwani (left) in Cheryl faux leather peplum corset. Komal Pandey is seen pairing a white jacquard corset belt with low waist pants and a trench coat. Image courtesy: Lea Clothing Co

Lavanya Aneja, founder of Lea Clothing Co and Isha Borah, digital fashion content creator, stress on layering when placing corsets in the top picks for winter wardrobe. By bringing out your year-old knitted-jackets, faux coats, vests, shrugs and even flannel shirts or sweaters, one can smartly turn summer staples such as short-sleeved, floral and solid tank corsets into winter fits.

"For styling sleeveless corsets or corset dresses for winter, always layer with shirts, bodysuits, sweaters and flannels to ensure comfort.

Experts recommend going for faux leather, heavy-weight satin, stretchy velvet and tweed fabrics to checklist warmth, comfort and style during the season. One can always pair corset tops with midi faux leather skirts, woollen maxi skirts, or embroidered denims for a basic, yet impactful, look," adds Aneja.

Here's a detailed guide for styling your corsets for winter by Isha Borah:

1. Over a blazer or jacket

You can wear them with jackets, sarees, coats, and more. However, these styles are not uncommon. If you wish to go the unusual route, you can wear a corset over a blazer. The corset should be your upper layer and not the blazer. However, ensure that the colour you are choosing is not too flashy or loud, in case you want to keep the look subtle and stylish. Pair them with moccasins and you are good to go.

You can also repeat the same style with a jacket in case you do not have a blazer. Ensure that the jacket is not too short. A medium length jacket should be optimal. However, it is necessary to see to it that the corset fit is not too tight leaving you gasping for air.

2. As an accessory

A corset top can be worn as an accessory under the jacket. However, instead of a regular corset top, you will have to get an underbust corset top. These tops serve the same purpose as a belt. To get a chic winter look, pair an underbust corset with a body hugging top or dress made of wool or rib-knit. You can complete the look by layering it with a trench coat or a long jacket. To make your look more smart, wear heels.

3. Under faux leather Jackets

If you are more inclined to style that is not feminine but yet stylish and classy, then you can opt to wear a faux leather corset top underneath a faux leather jacket. You can layer both the corset top and jacket over a dress or top. You can complement the look with a pair of boots.

4. Desi style

Corsets can be worn with Indian wear too. To get a desi chic look, wear a corset top instead of a blouse beneath your saree. Complete the look by wearing a long jacket over the saree. Your neckline will be visible and you can wear a chunky statement necklace to look your desi best.

5. Power look

Corsets and suits can never go wrong. This is a classic combination. If you want a power look, wear a turtleneck or a shirt and layer it with a corset. To complete the look, wear a suit jacket and trousers. Wear minimal jewellery to complement the outfit and to look like a boss babe.

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