The corset, once a symbol of restrictive femininity and women’s oppression, has made a powerful comeback in contemporary fashion, exemplified by Alia Bhatt’s recent appearance in a sheer corset top. This Victorian-era garment, which experienced a significant reclamation in 2021, continues to captivate designers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
In the past, corsets were often hidden beneath dresses, serving as instruments of physical and symbolic confinement. The evolution of fashion towards more liberating silhouettes seemed to spell the end for this waist-cinching piece. However, modern designers have reimagined the corset, transforming it into an emblem of empowerment and style.
Alia Bhatt’s outfit, a sage green ensemble from the Milan-based label Del Core, showcases this new vision. The sheer tulle fabric and exposed structured boning create a transparent effect, while the off-shoulder puffy sleeves add a whimsical touch. This look perfectly combines the transparency trend with a flirtatious edge, highlighting the corset’s transformation from an undergarment to a statement piece.
The resurgence of corsetry and regency-inspired fashion is evident not only on runways but also on red carpets. Celebrities like Dua Lipa frequently embrace corset-centric looks, as seen at events like the BRIT Awards and on social media. This trend has influenced various aesthetics, including the cottage-core movement. Figures like Janhvi Kapoor and Kylie Jenner have been spotted in floral, Bridgerton-inspired ensembles, further cementing the corset’s place in contemporary fashion.
In essence, the corset’s journey from a symbol of oppression to one of empowerment illustrates the dynamic nature of fashion and its ability to reinvent and redefine historical garments for modern contexts.
