Bustier vs. Corset - What Should You Pick for Your Outfit?

Finding the perfect lingerie can be overwhelming, especially as there are so many different styles. From bralettes to bustiers, and baby dolls to corsets, you may be unsure what to wear and when to wear it.

But once you have the different styles dialed in, wearing the right lingerie that works well for your outfit can transform your shape completely. And most importantly, it can give you the ultimate confidence boost.

Bustier and corsets may look very similar, but they actually have very different purposes. The two pieces of lingerie are often confused as they share some of the same characteristics and both can be intricate in shaping your body and getting the most out of your curves.

What is the Difference Between a Bustier and a Corset?

Both pieces of lingerie were extremely popular in Victorian and Edwardian times as undergarments. You may recognize them from movies such as Pirates of the Caribbean when Elizabeth Swan’s corset is so tight she faints, and popular period dramas like Bridgerton.

However, both corsets and bustiers are still worn today. Although they are still fitted undergarments, they are usually a lot less uncomfortable than they were a century ago.

Bustiers and corsets similarly aim to shape and contour the torso, giving you an hourglass shape. Usually they both have boning on the bodice which gives them their shape.

But the two pieces of lingerie have very different purposes. A bustier’s job is to boost the bust, giving you a little extra push-up. Whereas the corset aims to cinch in the waist, making your waist look more compact and shapely.

When to Wear a Bustier or Corset

Choosing between the two undergarments may depend on the occasion and what look you are hoping to achieve. While corsets could probably be worn for many different situations, a bustier enhances your bust so may not be the ideal thing to wear to meeting your boyfriend’s parents or celebrating your niece’s baptism.

Instead, a bustier may more appropriately be worn on date night or a night out with the girls. Some dresses work better when you are more naturally top heavy, so a bustier gives those with more of a flat chest an opportunity to fill out your outfit in all the right spots.

Underwear as Outerwear

Not all lingerie needs to be worn under your clothes. We can thank the 90s for the trend of wearing lingerie as outerwear. The most effective way to wear a corset or bustier as outerwear is with a blazer, a pair of jeans, heels, and an extra bit of confidence.

Many dresses also have bustiers and corsets built in to the dress for an extra bit of shaping. You will also find many wedding dresses which include a corset built in.

The Best Bustiers

Read on for our favorite bustiers that will take your outfits to the next level, giving you an extra boost to both your bust and confidence. Whether you plan to wear one behind closed doors, or you are looking for the perfect girls’ night outfit, a bustier could be just what you are looking for.

The Best Corsets

Corsets can give you the waist and shape you’ve always dreamed of. Read on for the most flattering selection. From corseted tees to corseted rompers, your waist will never look better.