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

As the third instalment of the mega-series unveils its extravagant wardrobe inspiration, it feels timely to revisit a fashion favourite—the bustier top.

Thu, 16 May, 2024 - 02:00

Annmarie O'Connor - @aocdotme

Since the 19th-century Netflix drama, Bridgerton, debuted in 2020, a redux of empire waists and plunging necklines espoused an uplifting fashion aesthetic—Regencycore.

As the third instalment of the mega-series unveils its extravagant wardrobe inspiration, it feels timely to revisit a fashion favourite—the bustier top.

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