Sculpted body corsets have seen an uptick over the last three years, opening the dialogue on loving your curves and edges with a boob-positive outlook. While fashion’s big red carpet icons like Kim Kardashian and Zendaya have set the tone for this bold style choice, Indian stars are embracing the theme as well. The breastplate has seen many iterations across the history of fashion. Pakistani designer Misha Japanwala created an armour-like breastplate in 2021 as part of her collection, triggering a chain reaction of sorts on this growing trend. Claude Lalanne is credited with creating the most iconic sculpted bustiers, which were featured in Yves Saint Laurent’s Haute Couture Autumn/Winter 1969 collection. Plaster moulds of Veruschka’s breasts, torso, and belly were crafted and subsequently encased in galvanised copper. As recent as Coperni’s spring/summer 2023 collection, they brought a modern twist to the style by spray-painting a sculpted dress onto supermodel Bella Hadid during the runway presentation.
Bhumi Pednekar made a bold statement in a burgundy sculpted leather corset from J Phoenix London, pairing it with a slit maxi skirt, causing a stir as the style gains traction. Alaya F also embraced the trend in a white version of the brand’s top, making a daring statement. Anitta showcased her edgy side in a vintage Issey Miyake moulded bustier with a glossy finish. Sydney Sweeney drew all eyes in a custom-made silver breastplate metal corset from LaQuan Smith.
In Tom Ford’s Spring 2020 collection, shiny moulded bustiers appeared on the runways in vibrant pink and metallic purple hues. One can remember Alexander McQueen’s Spring 1996 collection, where a translucent worm corset made a bold statement on the runway. McQueen featured a transparent neck-to-hip bustier in which he included live worms, aiming to provoke thoughts on horror, disgust, fashion, and sensuality with his collection aptly titled “Hunger.”
Fashion has a remarkable way of reviving trends, from ’80s bootcut and straight-fit jeans making a strong comeback today; sculpted body corsets are no exception. Let’s explore the celebrities and looks that are keeping this trend alive.