A fashion attention-grabber: Nine Bridgerton-inspired ways to wear the bustier

Historically, the bustier lives up to its name in attracting the eye to the bust and decolletage. 

Assisted by its waist-whittling cousin, the corset; the two sometimes do double duty in creating a rather zaftig silhouette with sculpted cups, lacing and boning.

Although eye-catching, this sounds like a lot of work, especially after returning from holidays where I spent my days relaxing in loose clothes. 

Thankfully, today’s iterations allow for real-world situations like finishing a paella at lunch before tucking into red tuna belly sashimi and beef carpaccio a few hours later.

For a bustier with more leverage in its execution, I’ve got you covered. 

Essential Antwerp’s knitted beauties win big. & Other Stories corset tops (they sell out quickly) boast an accordion effect around the middle while CAMI NYC’s vegan leather style is unexpectedly stretchy.

Styling-wise, keep to a tonal palette for a long, lean look. Mind the gap with high-waisted trousers and add an oversized blazer for a masculine edge. 

Puddle jeans, Adidas Gazelle sneakers and a vintage tracksuit jacket will also keep the look low-key. 

Prefer something more refined? Lean into 2024’s balletcore brethren with a tulle maxi skirt, cardigan and barre flats. 

This summer, I’m lending my bustier some French chic with an A-line skirt, rattan bag and espadrille wedges. 

Who knows? I may even acquire a small dog.

GET THE LOOK

1. A model walks the runway during the Christian Siriano SS24 Runway Show at The Pierre Hotel on September 08, 2023 in New York City.

2. Maje tweed bustier top, Brown Thomas, €175 

3. Sculptural corset top, & Other Stories, €129 

4. Simkhai ‘Dalila’ lace bustier top, The Outnet, €194 

5. CAMI NYC ‘Elloise’ cropped bustier top, The Outnet, €158 

6. Puffed sleeve corset top, & Other Stories, €99

7. Feather bustier top, Marella, €195 

8. ‘Emme’ floral bustier top, Marella, €89 

9. Knitted bustier top, Essentiel Antwerp, €115