Corsets for All: The Bold Return of the Genderless Trend That’s Redefining Fashion

 

Introduction: Corsets Making a Comeback

Once considered a symbol of rigid gender roles and Victorian modesty, the corset is experiencing a surprising revival in contemporary fashion—this time, not just for women, but for men as well. With designers like Kim Kardashian, Harry Styles, and A$AP Rocky embracing the trend, the corset has transformed from a historical undergarment into a statement piece on the runway and in street style. But how did this iconic garment evolve, and what does its resurgence mean for fashion today?

The Corset’s Historical Roots: From Femininity to Masculinity

The corset’s journey dates back to the 16th century, but it became most closely associated with Victorian-era fashion (1800s), when it was a critical component of both women’s and men’s wardrobes. For women, corsets were used to create an hourglass silhouette, emphasizing a narrow waist and high chest—an ideal of femininity during that time. For men, the corset was worn as part of formal dress, to provide a structured, upright posture and sometimes even as a part of military uniforms to maintain a rigid, disciplined look.

Though initially a gender-neutral garment, the corset became more closely linked to women’s fashion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when societal norms began to emphasize femininity through clothing. Men, however, continued to wear corsets, though often under the guise of a “waistcoat” or “stays.”

Corsets and Modern Fashion: A Return to Form

Fast forward to the 21st century, corset is now a powerful symbol of fashion rebellion and self-expression. Its comeback started in the early 2010s, driven by high-profile fashion shows, celebrity influencers, and social media. Designers like Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and Jean Paul Gaultier have flirted with the idea of corsets as part of their collections for decades, but it wasn’t until recent years that the trend truly caught fire.

The modern interpretation of the corset focuses less on restrictive shaping and more on the garment as a statement of structure and design. Corsets are being reimagined in various ways—from under-bust corsets worn over shirts and dresses to corset-inspired tops and accessories. Men, in particular, have embraced this trend, adding a sharp, avant-garde element to their wardrobes.

The Corset in Men’s Fashion: Breaking Boundaries

For men, wearing a corset challenges traditional masculine ideals associated with body shape and clothing. Historically, men were often expected to dress in a way that emphasized strength and practicality, but the corset disrupts these notions. Designers and fashion icons are now embracing the idea of corsets as part of gender-fluid fashion, symbolizing a move away from restrictive norms.

Harry Styles, known for his bold and androgynous style, often wears corset-inspired pieces, both on stage and in magazine shoots. Similarly, rapper and designer A$AP Rocky has been seen sporting corset-like details in his wardrobe, blending masculinity with femininity in a way that challenges traditional gender binaries.

The use of corsets by men today is seen as part of a larger conversation about body positivity, fluidity, and the breaking down of gendered fashion lines. Far from being a sign of weakness, corsets in men’s fashion have become an empowering symbol of self-expression and style.

 

 

Is the Corset Here to Stay?

With the growing popularity of the corset trend, it’s clear that fashion is evolving toward a more inclusive and experimental approach. The modern corset—whether worn by men or women—embraces not only body-shaping but also artistry, with designers experimenting with materials, colors, and construction techniques. This flexibility is what has allowed corsets to transition from a historical garment to a modern-day staple in many wardrobes.

However, the question remains: is this a fleeting trend or the beginning of a lasting shift in fashion? The continued presence of corset-inspired designs on runways, along with the willingness of high-profile celebrities and everyday fashion lovers to embrace the look, suggests that it may very well be here to stay.

Conclusion: The Corset as a Timeless Icon

What once served as a symbol of restriction and societal expectations is now a canvas for self-expression, redefined for the modern era. The corset’s resurgence—especially its growing popularity among men—signals a shift in fashion, one that embraces fluidity, individuality, and breaking boundaries. Whether as a powerful fashion statement or a nostalgic nod to the past, the corset is poised to remain a key trend in fashion’s evolving landscape.