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Corset, bustier or bralette: structure and sizing
What separates a corset from a bustier
Boning. A corset has rigid or semi-rigid bones along its seams and laces at the back, so it reshapes the waist and holds its own structure. A bustier is shaped but unboned, closing with hooks; it supports without reshaping. A bralette has neither and is cut for comfort. The three are not interchangeable in fit.
| Piece | Boning | Closes with | Sized on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overbust corset | Full | Back lacing, front busk | Waist |
| Underbust corset | Full | Back lacing | Waist |
| Bustier | None or light | Hook and eye | Bust |
| Bralette | None | Clasp or pull-on | Bust |
Sizing
Corsets are sized on the waist, not the bust, and the correct size is normally eight to ten centimetres below your natural waist measurement. Everything else in the collection follows the manufacturer's Asian sizing, roughly one size below EU and US. Read the centimetre table on each product page.
Frequently asked
- What is the difference between a corset and a bustier?
- A corset is boned and laces at the back, so it reshapes the waist. A bustier is unboned and supports without reshaping.
- Can a corset be worn as outerwear?
- Yes, and most of this range is designed for it. Overbust styles are cut to be worn over a shirt or on their own.
- How do you size a corset?
- On the waist, typically eight to ten centimetres below your natural waist measurement, never on your dress size.
- Is gothic lingerie only for special occasions?
- No. Bralettes, harness sets and mesh tops in this collection are cut to be layered under jackets and sheer tops as everyday pieces.