The corset. Synonymous with the hourglass silhouette that women have always aspired to. Originally used to cover a sinful body, today it is used to enhance and show off the most seductive shapes of the human body.

There are 16 different types of corsets that have been invented and developed since the 1500s. Different corset styles have their own history and purpose. Some are more or less popular, some are more or less comfortable, some are used to complete an outfit and some are used to secretly slim the waist. Not every support garment has just one purpose. In this article we will focus on some of them, as you may find them in our shop.

Types of underbust and overbust corsets

There are at least 16 basic types of girdles, and there may be overlaps between styles. For example, an underbust can also be a cincher or an hourglass boned foundation with ribbon lacing. A plus size corset with a modesty panel can be a cupped overbust corset, pipe stem, wasp or sweetheart overbust corset with hip panels. A cupped corset can be worn as a short top or a longline cupped overbust extending to the hips. If you're unfamiliar with any of these terms, here's a list of the basic names that may be of help to you.

Underbust versus overbust corset

The main difference between the two is the length. An underbust starts under the bust, whereas an overbust starts under the arms. Both end above the hips, but only the overbust lifts the breasts.

The underbust is divided into:

• a bodice, that ends at the waist, covers the back and always includes some kind of shoulder coverage;

• a longline, which extends to the hips.

The overbust is divided into:

• a cupped overbust , which has built-in pads and provides excellent support for larger breasts;

• a lingerie overbust , which has additional detachable suspenders, or/and garters.

Mid-bust

An intermediate corset starts at the centre of bust and ends just below the hips. It supports the breasts without forcing them upwards.

Overbust (LE 9000), mid-bust (LE 5806), underbust (LE 9220)

Corselette

It's a well-made cupped overbust girdle that covers the hips.

Cincher

If you're not interested in what offers cupped corset with bust fit or steel boned overbust with hip panels, but you wish to inch waist, choose custom corset called cincher. It focuses on reducing your waist size like no other type.

Waspie

The corset story for waspie begins in France. It was invented by Christian Dior and is a type between an underbust and a cincher. The main use is to train the waist like a waist tape or belt.

Hourglass

An hourglass can be made in all three lengths: overbust, midbust, and underbust. It is an inch corset designed to slim the waist while making you feel comfortable at the same time. It usually has a sweetheart overbust corset neckline or a straight neckline.

Pipe stem

A standard steel corset incorporates spiral steel bones or flat steel bones to create a rigid structure that compresses and flattens the torso. It is usually made from high-quality fabric in any colour such as black, red, or brown brocade and is fastened with ribbon lacing and busk.

Guepiere or Basque

Once again Christian Dior has created a corset story. This type is a mix of three different girdles: a bustier, a waist cincher and a garter belt.

Laced

Generally, a underbust or a cupped overbust are fastened in some way. They are either laced, zipped or have a busk fastening. Sometimes they have all three. A laced corset can have front, front and back, and triple lacing, which includes lacing at the sides.

Front-laced (LE 5419), back-laced (LE 9016), side-laced (LE 5524)

Ribbon

A modern cupped overbust, also known as a ribbon, is made from delicate and light materials or fabric bands. They make you feel more comfortable because they don't weigh you down. They usually feature standard bust overbust for a cupped overbust.

Types of corset materials

Brocade

When you think of an elegant and rich lovely corset brocade corset should be the first to come to mind. The history of the main corset fabric starts almost 300 years BC! It's definitely a true masterpiece made from classic colours that give you the best quality brocade, usually including cupped overbust with inch waist and hip panels. This inch corset must have a solid fastening system, so lacing and a busk are necessary. Hip panels mentioned above, enhance hip curves.

Cotton

If you're looking for a cupped overbust and something breathable that can be worn underneath your clothes, a cotton cupped overbust is the way to go, but don't forget about the correct bust fit. Even standard bust overbust need fit perfectly for your comfort. Custom corsets include back lacing which are perfect for those who enjoy simple yet classic solutions.

Lace

The typical bridal cupped overbust with ribbon lacing is made of lace or satin. A cupped overbust created billions of beautiful brides all over the world. Constructing cupped corsets from lace requires precision and patience. There's nothing more bridal than lace cupped overbust dress.

Leather

Has a leather overbust corset unisex features? Yes, it does. Leather, just like PVC, is used in BDSM and fetish fashion, and can be worn by both men and women. In our shop, you may find steel boned overbust, cupped corset, and belts made from high-quality leather with our without hip panels.

Mesh

Cupped sheer overbust with ribbon lacing is a must-have. It goes with everything: elegant trousers, long and short skirts, leather, jeans, satin, latex... There is no material or style that this cupped overbust corset couldn't fit into.

PVC

The sexiest material that a cupped overbust can be made from. Choose a cupped overbust corset with hip panels made from vinyl to feel powerful, sexy and fierce.

Satin

Satin gives a luxurious look, is smooth and lustrous. The satin cupped overbust corset lace up with ribbon lacing and you don't need anything else to enrich your outfit.

FAQ about corset

When did a Corset Story start? When were corsets invented?

The Corset Story is long and not fully understood. The first records of anything resembling a corset come from Greece around 1,000 BC. But the corsets we know today began to become popular in France in the XVI century.

How to lace a corset?

If you're trying to figure out how to lace-up a corset, you can be sure to receive a manual attached to your shippement. It will help you put the corset on without any problems every time. No more cupped overbust tutorials!

How to style a corset?

Nowadays, it really and only depends on the preferences of the wearer. In the past, overbust we worn with tigh jeans. Any overbust was worn casually as it could be worn as a top. A mesh overbust corset and a cupped mesh overbust look sexy under sheer dresses and blouses. If you're going to a rock concert and need to complete your outfit, a leather cupped overbust full-bust is a great choice. Select one when attending elegant events and galas, where you can opt for a satin corset brocade that will become your main ornament and will certainly draw attention to your natural waist.

Do you feel confused and don't know what to wear with underbust corset? This type of a corset fits perfectly when paired with simple tank tops and dresses. This inch corset reduces your waist and will add a stunning look to an overall outfit when worn on top.

Remember to choose a high quality corset with a reliable corset closure such as a busk, a zipper or solid ribbon lacing. Avoid mass produced cookie-cutter corsets that are made from poor quality materials and won't last a season.

Are steel boned corsets safe? What happens if you regularly wear corsets?

If not overused, they should not cause any medical problems. In fact, they can even help control back pain and correct posture. Corset wearers can surely agree that it helps to slim your waist, which looks amazing. However, if you use corsets cupped overbust or underbust too often and for too long, it can cause digestive problems, organ damage, weak core muscles and pelvic floor weakness.

What are REFETISH corsets made from?

Each lovely corset created by Ledapol is made from the highest quality latex, leather, PVC and textiles. Each one is sewn and finished by hand to order. This guarantees that you will receive an exceptional product entirely made in Poland.