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what is a bustier

The word bustier stems from the word bust, which makes a lot of sense when you consider what it can do for your bustline. This classic piece of lingerie, which is often confused with a corset, is aimed at emphasizing a woman’s curves, lifting the breasts upward and inward while defining and drawing attention to a small waist.

In other words, the bustier can make anyone look like they have an hourglass figure. So it’s no surprise that the bustier has long been one of the most popular pieces of lingerie. There are many benefits to wearing a bustier, however, that go beyond showing off your curves.

If you’ve ever been curious about this iconic piece of lingerie, here are three reasons to consider adding one (or two or three) to your collection:

Bustiers are basically a bra and shapewear in one

There’s no denying that a bustier is quite the multitasker. Not only does it support, lift, and define your breasts, but it can also smooth out your midsection. The result? An uplifted, sculpted bust line as well as a striking silhouette. In other words, rather than having to wear both a bra and shapewear, you can wear a bustier and get the same effect: a sculpted torso and quite the eye-catching decolletage. This is why a bustier is a very common choice for brides to wear under their wedding gowns.

Side note: many people mistakenly assume that bustiers will feel restrictive and confining because they’re often associated with corsets. However, whereas corsets are made with stiffer fabrics, bustiers are made with more flexible materials — so you’ll probably be shocked at just how comfortable they can be!

Bustiers are actually super supportive

As you likely know, a bustier can seriously amp up your cleavage. On top of that, they are also surprisingly supportive — more than many might think. Bustiers vary in length, with some extending just a few inches under the cups and others extending all the way down at the bottom of the hips.

Regardless of the length, though, the extra material on a bustier underneath the cups helps to provide additional support (just like with a longline bra). So if you’ve ever wondered if you’re too full-busted for a bustier, rest assured that this style can actually be super advantageous for you. Look for bustiers with underwire cups, adjustable straps and at least a couple rows of adjustable hook-and-eye closures in the back to ensure you get maximum support (and a flawless fit overall).


Related: What Is A Longline Bustier?


Bustiers can be worn out

The beauty of a bustier is that you don’t necessarily need to hide it underneath clothing — in fact, it’s one of the few unmentionables you can wear out. Of course, not all bustiers are designed to be worn as clothing, but styles that have ornate details, lace overlays, and other accents that look meant to be seen can certainly be shown off.

There are a number of ways to wear a bustier, too. For example, you could pair one with a flared knee length skirt and a denim jacket for a casual yet flirty ensemble. Or, you could wear a bustier with a floor-length skirt and heels for an elegant yet sultry vibe.

When you wear a bustier with a blazer and skinny black jeans or a pencil skirt and pumps you instantly look polished yet sexy at the same time. Hitting the cocktail bar for girls’ night out? Try a bustier with skinny jeans, ankle booties, and a leather jacket for an edgy, eye-catching look. You could also try donning a bustier underneath a sheer blouse to give your layering some intrigue.

Pro tips

The bottom line is this: Bustiers are actually incredibly versatile undergarments. Not only do they provide amazing support, but they can double as shapewear and even give your wardrobe a seductive twist. It may take some time to find the right bustier for you, but trust us, when you do, you’ll wonder how you went so long without having one in your lingerie collection.


Related: 8 Rules Every Woman Should Know About Bustiers


We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!


Featured image lingerie:
Elissa Low Back Bustier P5017 in Pearl White
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Published by

Rebecca Strong

Rebecca is a Boston-based freelance writer who focuses on style, fitness, food, and travel. She has contributed to such publications as HuffPost, Elite Daily and U.S. News & World Report. When she's not writing, she can be found at home or in the studio working on the songs for her upcoming album. Her favorite bra is a black demi-cup style with all-over-lace — timeless and feminine.

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