Corset Style Guide
Not sure which corset style is right for you? Here’s a breakdown of the different style options we offer.
Renaissance Bodice
Our most classic style in true Renaissance fashion, this is the iconic style of corset you will see at Renaissance Faires. This type of corset looks great on everyone. This corset curves around the shape of the bust, rather than flattening it, which creates a rounder bust shape than our Tudor or Elizabethan style. This style features a low, scooping neckline and a pointy waistline. If you want maximum cleavage and bust support, this style is for you!
If you are plus sized, we recommend choosing a stronger/thicker fabric for this corset. This style has a light amount of boning, so you will find more support in thicker fabrics. Think linens, tapestry fabrics, and velvets. Avoid silks and satins.
Underbust Bodice
If you’re going for a “Classic Tavern Wench” vibe, this is the style for you. This style features a neckline that scoops under and around the bust instead of over it. Unlike our other styles, this corset does not compress the bust at all. So if you are looking for a more modest style, or you have a large bust and don’t want to create any more cleavage, this is a great option. The slight scoop around the bust provides enough support that most folks feel comfortable without wearing a bra, but you may want to wear one for extra support or modesty.
Elizabethan Stays
Our Elizabethan stays create the classic Shakespearean aesthetic of the Elizabethan Age. Elizabethan and Tudor stays are known for creating a conical, or triangular, shape, rather than the hourglass shape traditional types of corsets are known for. These stays feature back lacing and a structured bodice with a bit more boning than the Renaissance Bodice. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a supportive fit without the look of front lacing. Elizabethan stays do not curve around the bust, creating more of a pushed up bust shape rather than the rounded shape of the Renaissance Bodice. The low scooping neckline still allows for showing cleavage, so if you’re going for a buxom maiden look, you won’t be disappointed.
Plus sized folks, you will love this style for the structured and supportive shape it provides.
Tudor Stays
The classic stays worn by Anne Boleyn and other members of the Tudor family. Tudor stays are just like our Elizabethan stays, except they have more boning and a higher neckline. We recommend picking the Tudor stays if you are looking for maximum bust support in a less revealing silhouette. This is a great option for those looking for more of a chest binding look, or a knightcore aesthetic.
Plus sized folks, you will love this style for the structured and supportive shape it provides. The higher neckline provides a bit of extra coverage in the bust area.
18th Century Stays
Our 18th century stays are our interpretation of stays worn historically in the late 1700s. Marie Antoinette, Outlander, and Rococo fashion are famous representations of this style. These stays are a mix between our Elizabethan and Tabbed Tudor styles. Dainty waist tabs give this silhouette a little something extra, and the low scooping neckline is perfect for showing off a ruffled lace chemise.
Our plus sized clients love this style for its structured silhouette and flattering shape. This corset is half-boned, which provides a decent amount of support.
High Back Corset Bodice
Our high back corset bodice is similar to our Renaissance Bodice, except for the straps and the neckline. Instead of removable straps, this corset features a neckline that comes up higher in the back, inspired by the style of historical bodices. This is the most historically accurate bodice option from our shop.
Corset Dresses
The Corset Dress is a combination of our Renaissance Bodice with a skirt attached to the waistline. It’s like a Renaissance dress with the structural support of a corset built in. This is a great option for creating a layered look over a linen chemise, or for adding a skirt to your outfit for less than the cost of a skirt separate.
Corset Belt
New to corset wearing in general? This style is the easiest way to introduce yourself into the world of corsets and stays. Our corset belts are easy to add as an accessory to any outfit. We love throwing this style over a dress or a billowing blouse for an instantly elevated look. You’ll love the structured waist and waspie silhouette this creates. Our corset belts are also our lowest priced style, so if you want to dip your toe in the water but aren’t quite ready to commit to a real corset, this is a great place to start. But careful – corset wearing is addicting!
The right type of corset for you
Still not sure which style to get? If you’re still not sure about which style is right for your body measurements, send us an email and our team can make a recommendation for you. We’d be happy to help you pick out your dream corset!
Our Favorite Corsets
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Leather Underbust Corset Belt
Regular price $58.00 USDRegular priceUnit price per -
Floral Tapestry Corset Top
Regular price $158.00 USDRegular priceUnit price per -
Black Wildflower Corset Top
Regular price $158.00 USDRegular priceUnit price per -
Evergreen Linen High Back Corset Bodice
Regular price $148.00 USDRegular priceUnit price per
Blog posts
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Bodice vs. Corset, What’s the Difference?
Here at French Meadows, you may have noticed that we use the terms bodice and corset interchangeably. That is because in the context of contemporary fashion, they are very similar...
Bodice vs. Corset, What’s the Difference?
Here at French Meadows, you may have noticed that we use the terms bodice and corset interchangeably. That is because in the context of contemporary fashion, they are very similar...
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How to Lace a Front Lacing Corset
Not sure how to properly lace up your new French Meadows Corset? This post describes how to lace our front lacing corsets, bodices, or stays. Lacing a boned bodice, like...
How to Lace a Front Lacing Corset
Not sure how to properly lace up your new French Meadows Corset? This post describes how to lace our front lacing corsets, bodices, or stays. Lacing a boned bodice, like...
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The History of Corsets
Curious about the fascinating and complex history of corset-wearing? From Renaissance to modern times, take a comprehensive look at the origins and evolution of corsets.
The History of Corsets
Curious about the fascinating and complex history of corset-wearing? From Renaissance to modern times, take a comprehensive look at the origins and evolution of corsets.
