In a Nice Bind // Corset Bodice Wedding Gowns

Corsets are certainly nothing new.  These articles of clothing have been worn by women (and men, too) for centuries, their popularity dating back at least to the 16th century in Europe.  They were designed to firmly cinch the waistline, support good posture and create a desired silhouette, evolving in structure and shape with the shifting trends in fashion.

Corsets remained in style as a utilitarian item until sometime around 1920 when they were replaced by the girdle, passing in and out of fashion only for brief periods afterwards until the late ’50s. After that, while certainly still available on the market, they became a far less popular article of clothing for most women.

While they used to be a wardrobe staple, obviously most closets don’t contain these garments as a functional item anymore.  However, the bridal gown industry has produced and featured many more beautiful corset bodice wedding dresses in recent years.  And the corset is expected to be a major wedding dress trend in 2025.

Original Corsets

The original corsets were made with a true working purpose, specifically to reduce one’s waist measurement and hold the torso into a desired shape.  They were stiff, tight and often uncomfortable to wear for long periods.  By the 19th century, the boning (vertical ribs) were primarily made from whale bones, however throughout their history, they’ve also been made using wood, ivory, cane and steel.

Today’s Designs

Quality corsets today are mainly constructed with steel boning, however plastic, which is less costly, is another commonly found boning material on the market.  Today’s corsets however don’t typically have quite the same functionality of their predecessor.  While they certainly are slimming, they’re generally made “for looks only” and are far more comfortable to wear, their structure details being mainly decorative.  They’re most often designed now to gently hold the bride in place and smooth her shape while presenting the overall aesthetics of a traditional corset.

Trending Features

We expect to see corset bodices as a hot trend for weddings this year, as they’re showcased in practically all designer spring and fall collections.  And brides love these flattering, ultra-feminine, torso-elongating designs! Some wedding dress fashions feature classic corsets complete with lacing in the back and conspicuous boning in front. 

Others are far more subtle, simply suggesting the overall look of a corset by highlighting the construction or shape.  These more subtle designs feature one or more elements of a classic corset, such as a close-fitted bodice, highly shaped design, cinching at the waist and a sweetheart neckline. And with drop-waist and basque wedding gown waistlines also trending this year, many will be paired with these lovely silhouettes.

Designer Examples

The corset bodice is a very flattering and flirtatious design and pairs beautifully with both slim and full skirt silhouettes.  Check out Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2025 collection for so many corset bodice wedding gown designs in several silhouettes, including the modern Heirloom Gown, the classic embroidered Delfina and the colorful 3D floral Amalfi strapless ballgown. Mark Ingram's namesake spring and fall collections also feature many corset designs, with standouts like the Yasmin, Paloma, Odilie and Bayne in long sleeves, strapless and spaghetti straps.

The Onyx from Amsale features gorgeous satin ruching atop a corseted bodice, a subtle drop waist and a lovely tulle ball gown skirt.  And see Provonias' Alura, Alphosine and Marvely gowns (and many more!) in the 2025 collection for more gorgeous examples of the classic corset bodice.

We fondly remember a subtle interpretation of the corset bodice design in bride, Robin’s gorgeous wedding gown!  With its cinched-waist, structured appearance and wonderful sweetheart neckline, this custom Inbal Dror gown definitely had fashionable corset inspiration.  

Shannon's spectacular light and airy Monique Lhuillier wedding dress featured dainty spaghetti straps above a softer corset bodice, lace embroidery throughout and a full princess silhouette. It had a perfect summery feel for her beachside wedding event.  And Marisa’s beautiful strapless gown from Isabelle Armstrong had that classic corset bodice and a lovely full lace-covered skirt.  All simply stunning!

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