How to Make a Strapless Dress Tighter with a Corset

Strapless dresses can be tricky. Too loose, and you’re tugging it up all night, at risk of baring all. Too tight, and you're uncomfortable before you leave the house and have bulgy bits where you don’t want them to be. It can be hard to strike the balance. But here’s something that many people don’t realise – a corset might just save the day.

If you’re looking for a quick, no-sew way to make a strapless dress fit like a glove, a corset could be your secret weapon.

How to Rock a Strapless Dress with the Help of a Corset

Choose the right corset

If you’re going to wear a corset, it needs to properly fit. Otherwise, you’re just exchanging one problem for another. But with a well-structured underbust or waist corset, you can provide structure beneath the dress without adding bulk to your bust. The trick is to choose the right size. And to find a design that is comfortable and breathable. You also need strong boning for support. 

Alternatively, you might choose an overbust design, which can be worn as a corset top. When placed over your dress, it can add definition, creating a new look from the same dress. 

Try it on

When you wear a corset, it will naturally fill up space inside your clothing. In a strapless dress, this will make it tighter around the torso, helping to keep it in place. But it’s important that you try on all elements of your outfit together to ensure the perfect fit. So, put the corset on first, then slip your strapless dress over it. Take care to adjust the dress so it sits properly. Smooth out any bunching or wrinkles. If you’re planning to wear the outfit for several hours, test it at home first. Walk, sit, dance, jump up and down! The idea is to make sure you’re comfortable and confident.

Lace it up

When you’re wearing a corset, it’s really important to lace it up properly. Focus on keeping the tension even. You can do this by starting from the middle and working your way up and down. But don’t overdo it. Your goal is to firm up the fit, not restrict breathing or movement.

Secure the dress

Your corset will help to keep your dress in place. But you still need to use fashion tape or body adhesive to make sure the top of the dress stays in place. This is particularly important if you're dancing or moving a lot. You might also find that strapless bras or stick-on cups can help with shaping and stability.

Look in a mirror

A corset can change your silhouette slightly. So, before you head out, it’s a good idea to double-check your look from different angles. Ensuring that your dress is smooth and the look is flattering.

Wearing strapless dresses can be stressful! But with the right corset, you can go strapless with confidence.

Are you looking for the perfect corset to support a strapless dress? Check out the True Corset collection.