Fit For a Queen
Images Courtesy of @orseund_iris on Instagram
Written by: Peyton Haahr
It’s almost 2019, and we didn’t think we’d be writing a post about bustiers any time in the near future, yet here we are. At this point, we shouldn’t be surprised when a fashion trend is suddenly revived. But nevertheless, both the Instagram accounts of our favorite models and the runways of the hottest brands were dotted with this cleavage-related trend. There were softly structured dresses that cupped the chest and drew in the waist, and others resembled the more traditional corset design – just not designed to suffocate you this time around. Take a look at not only some runway designs, but also some looks from around the celebrity trend circuit.
Leading the trend in probably the most romantic, feminine way is Brock Collection, whose designs made you feel like you were meant for the cafes of Paris, sipping an espresso on a street corner with your sunglasses dipping off your nose. Dresses bearing this trend were presented in pastel florals and pale off-white neutrals, with the structuring underneath the breasts adding interest and varying textures. The white dress in particular, while a relatively simple shape, was offered up with a monochrome corset, one that worked well with the laced heels and was a perfect addition to the blank slate of a dress. The structure of these pieces gives any style a whole new feel – and harkens back to the regality and elegance of a different time.
Brock Collection Spring 2019 Ready-to-Wear; Photos courtesy of Dan Lecca for Brock Collection
On the other hand we have Dior, where there were several dresses that came down the runway in sheer materials, with an underwire and structured materials around the chest. Some were heavily decorated with delicate lace and floral detailing, and others were piled with shiny stones and metals – yet all bore this corset style. Dior’s take on this trend is clearly a dressier one, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it work for your wardrobe. And if the dress is sheer? Pull on your favorite slip underneath (just make sure the necklines match and the hem is the right length). If the dress is shorter, like the blue or orange one, throw a cropped jean jacket over it, or a waisted coat that can show off the style underneath.
Christian Dior Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear, Photos Courtesy of Yannis Vlamos / Indigital.tv
While this trend may not take off in your workplace or community as easily as say, flare jeans, that doesn’t stop some celebrities from taking a chunk out of it. Among the top contenders are mostly models, including Emily Ratajkowski, Bella Hadid, Elsa Hosk, and Romee Strijd. Emily, present for the Dior show this year, wore a pale white dress, bearing a ribbed bustier and a thigh-high slit. On the more wearable end of the spectrum, Hosk wore a black long sleeve with an interesting cut out underneath the chest, and Strijd found a lace-up corset top that paired wonderfully with tonal pants and combat boots. And yes, we understand that models can wear a lot of things the average person cannot, but this trend isn’t so bad. It has the ability to slim the waist and give a totally fresh feel to your basic tee.
Instagram credit to @emrata, @bellahadid, @hoskelsa, @romeestrijd
If you’re not convinced, take a look at some other runways, like that of Alexander McQueen, Loewe, or Preen by Thronton Bregazzi. Or peak at celebrities like Margot Robbie or Beyoncé, both of whom who have shown their own creative take on the bustier trend. It’s not for everyone, that’s for sure, but it’s a unique trend if you’re someone who’s picky about what to follow. This one is sophisticated, elegant, and downright regal. Fit for a queen who doesn’t really need a king...just probably a cup of coffee in the morning.