Gothic Corset

What do the words “gothic corset” make you think of? For me, a gothic corset is taking corsetry to it’s most extreme and inventive level. Think Morticia Adams, think beautiful grand sweeping designs that conjur thoughts of darkness and fantasy, think adornments and explosive design. Yes, a gothic corset is one of the most eye-catching garments a woman can possess.

The typical gothic corset will be made of leather or, in extreme cases, PVC. It will do all the work of a normal corset, such as helping shape a figure, as well as being a showpiece in itself. The most common denominator in gothic corset design is the additions - anything from feathers, to glitter, to swaths of material can appear on a gothic corset, giving it that extra oomph.

Unlike most corsets, a gothic corset is not designed to be worn underneath clothes. Its place is not to aid an outfit, it is to be the outfit. As well as being a staple of any dominatrix, a gothic corset has a more sedate role in adding drama and vibrancy to an outfit - you don’t have to be fond of dungeons to wear one.

The most common feature of gothic corsets is front-lacing, though this is often a fallacy. The lacing at the front of a gothic corset, which is usually in a vibrant yet seductive shade such as red or deep violet, is usually merely for ornamental purposes only - as the actual securing of the garment is still at the back, creating a double effect. A bonus of the front lacing is that as it is usually in a different colour to the base material, it creates a streamline effect when viewed from the front, narrowing the figure of the wearer.

There is no doubt that a gothic corset is not something you should be contemplating wearing to college, work or a meeting with your boyfriend’s parents. Reserve it for special occasions, nights out and times when a little added drama, a little addition of minx, is needed. The true trick of a gothic corset in standard wear is to keep the rest of the outfit simple, letting the corset do the work and be the focus of your ensemble. A simple pair of tight black trousers works wonders, though if you really want to up the drama, go for a long sweeping skirt that moves when you move.

Wearing a gothic corset is going to attract attention, both for the physical effect it will have on your body and the drama and passion of the design. However, that is the point of the gothic corset’s existence, so wear it loud and proud, so long as the occasion befits. There are few other garments that have the heart-stopping effect of a truly masterful gothic corset, so glory in the drama and show a whole new, dynamic side to your character.