Asymmetric Corset Dresses - How to Wear the Figure-Flattering Style

What is an Asymmetric Corset Dress?

An asymmetric corset dress is a stylish and elegant garment that combines the structure of a corset with the flow and drape of an asymmetrical dress. This type of dress flatters the figure by cinching and shaping the waistline while allowing a looser, draped skirt that creates dimension and movement.

Asymmetric corset dresses are often made of smooth fabrics like satin, silk, or chiffon that gracefully skim over the body's contours. The bodice is designed like a corset, with boning, underwires, or other rigid structures that draw in the waist. It may feature decorative lacing up the back or along the sides. The structured corset bodice provides an attractive counterpoint to the fluid asymmetrical skirt.

Key Features of an Asymmetric Corset Dress

Here are some of the defining features of the asymmetric corset dress style:

• Fitted, boned corset bodice that nips in at the waist
• Figure-flattering seaming and diagonal paneling
• Asymmetrical, draped skirt, often with a high-low hem
• Elegant fabrics like satin, silk, chiffon, or lace
• Decorative lacing, ruching, or embellishments on the corset
• Bold colors, metallic sheens, prints, or textures
• Sleeveless or spaghetti strap tops

Benefits of an Asymmetric Corset Dress

There are many reasons why an asymmetric corset dress is a brilliant choice for modern fashionistas:

Creates a Slimming Silhouette

The structured corset bodice has a slimming effect on the figure by cinching in at the waist and smoothing over the midsection. This creates a shapely, hourglass silhouette. The diagonal draping and asymmetrical hemlines work to elongate the body's lines.

Offers Support

The boning and rigid fabrics in a corset dress provide support for the bust and torso, enhancing your shape. This allows you to go sans bra in many designs. The snug fit also eliminates the need to keep adjusting your dress throughout the day.

Flatters Curves

This style highlights your assets by accentuating the waist, boosting the bustline, and emphasizing the hips. The contrast of the nipped-in corset and the flowing skirt creates a striking feminine silhouette.

Provides a Blank Canvas for Accessories

The neutral palette and clean lines of many asymmetric corset dresses make them a perfect base for accessorizing. Make it your own with a colorful belt, delicate necklace, or sparkling jewelry. Finish it off with a pair of statement heels.

Modern and Fashion-Forward

Asymmetric dresses feel fresh and contemporary. The combo of asymmetry, draping, and corsetry results in showstopping style that turns heads. This innovative design constantly reinvents itself each season on the runways.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Corset dresses seamlessly transition from day to night. Pair with flats or white sneakers for casual summer chic. Trade for strappy heels and a clutch for cocktail parties and weddings. The stylish silhouette works for the office, date night, and beyond.

How to Style an Asymmetric Corset Dress

An asymmetric corset dress provides endless opportunities for creative styling. Here are some tips for rocking this look:

Play with Proportions

Try pairing your shorter corset mini with over-the-knee boots. Or balance the high-low hem with barely-there sandals. Contrast the slim fit up top with an oversized denim jacket.

Cinch the Waist

Add definition to the already nipped-in waistline by belting your dress. Try wide corset belts, sleek leather, or chain belts. A belt also allows you to highlight the contrast between the corset and skirt.

Layer with Tops

Get creative by layering tanks, blouses, or bodysuits underneath your corset dress. Off-the-shoulder and asymmetric necklines work beautifully. This adds dimension while still showing off the corseted waist.

Go Bold with Shoes

Make a statement with brilliantly colored or uniquely textured shoes. Metallic strappy heels, lace-up booties, and bold patterned flats all complement these dresses. Ankle-wrap styles show off the asymmetrical hemlines.

Accessorize Strategically

Enhance your look with asymmetric earrings, an armful of bangles, or a headband that contrasts the neckline. Suspend a crossbody or minaudière bag from one shoulder to mirror the asymmetry. Statement shoes are a must.

Play with Textures

Add visual interest by mixing and matching fabrics. Pair sleek satin corsets with sheer chiffon skirts, for example. Or wear leather shorts under a billowy maxi dress. Contrast matte and shiny textures for an eye-catching look.

Occasions to Wear an Asymmetric Corset Dress

Here are some ideas for events and occasions perfect for donning these standout dresses:

Cocktail Parties & Weddings

An asymmetric corset dress rivals the figure-flattering fit of a cocktail dress while standing out from the crowd. Look stunning at weddings, engagement celebrations, or classy soirées.

Date Nights

Heat up date night in a sexy corset dress with lace-up details, a racy slit, or a low-cut neckline. Finish with bombshell makeup and hair. Your partner won't be able to resist!

Girls' Night Out

Dance, sip cocktails, and laugh the night away in an asymmetric corset dress on your next girls' night out. Pair with heels and statement jewelry for a festive, flirty look.

Concerts & Performances

See your favorite musician or band while rocking an edgy, fashion-forward corset dress. Keep it casual with boots and a moto jacket.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Hit the club scene in a sexy, strappy corset dress with a high slit or open back. Show off your best moves in a dress that celebrates your curves.

Art Galleries & First Dates

Make an unforgettable first impression on a first date in a colorful printed corset dress and fun accessories. Keep it flirty yet sophisticated.

Where to Shop for Asymmetric Corset Dresses

Major retailers offer a wide selection of stylish asymmetric corset dresses. Here are some top spots to shop:

ASOS

ASOS carries an ever-rotating selection of the latest corset dresses, from mini to maxi lengths and everywhere in between.

Nasty Gal

Find sexy, sultry corset dresses perfect for clubbing at this trendy e-tailer. Expect plunging necklines, high slits, and edgy details.

Revolve

With designer labels like For Love & Lemons and Privacy Please, Revolve offers on-trend corset dresses in luxe fabrics.

Lulus

Lulus provides affordable options for chic asymmetric corset dresses in a rainbow of colors and prints.

Show Me Your Mumu

Boho babes love this brand for its ultra-flattering corset maxi dresses made for dancing barefoot at festivals.

House of CB

Known for bandage dresses, House of CB does killer corset styles, from slinky minis to glittering gowns.

Free People

Browse an eclectic mix of ‘70s-inspired corset dresses in feminine prints, crochet accents, and vivid hues.

Anthropologie

Discover one-of-a-kind asymmetrical corset dresses with intricate detailing and whimsical accents at this beloved boho retailer.

How to Care for an Asymmetric Corset Dress

Follow these care instructions to keep your asymmetric corset dress looking fabulous:

Read Garment Labels

Check care labels for specific washing, drying, and ironing directions. Follow professional dry cleaning tags when needed.

Wash Gently

Use a mild detergent on the gentle cycle setting. Never wring, twist, scrub, bleach or wash in hot water, as this can damage delicate fabrics.

Air Dry Flat

Lay dresses flat on a towel to dry, smoothing out the fabric. Hang drying can stretch out the structured corset bodice.

Steam or Iron Delicately

Use the cool setting on your iron and avoid pressing directly on embellishments. Or use a garment steamer to smooth out wrinkles and creases.

Store Properly

Keep dresses on padded hangers in your closet to maintain their shape. Zip up or button closures before hanging.

Handle With Care

Avoid pulling, tugging or stretching the fabric when putting on your dress. Be aware of doorways, jewelry and handbags that could catch on the dress and snag it.

Key Takeaways

An asymmetric corset dress is the ultimate figure-flattering fashion statement. The corset bodice cinches the waist while the draped, high-low skirt creates dimension. This versatile style works for both daytime and nighttime events. Dress it up with heels and jewelry or down with sneakers and a denim jacket. Look for chic asymmetric corset dresses from retailers like Revolve, Lulus and Free People. With proper care, your dress will maintain its structure and drape for many wears to come.

FAQs

What fabrics are asymmetric corset dresses made of?

These dresses typically use smooth, flowing fabrics like satin, silk, chiffon or lace for the skirts. The structured corset bodices may incorporate heavier fabrics like brocade or mesh overlays for definition.

What colors and prints are popular for this dress style?

Solid bold hues like red, black, and royal blue are classics. Pastels, metallics, and vibrant patterns like floral and animal prints are also popular. Many designers offer a range of color and print options.

How do you put on an asymmetric corset dress?

Step into the dress rather than pulling it over your head to avoid messing up hair and makeup. Tighten laces starting from the bottom and working up. Adjust the skirt so the high-low hem drapes attractively.

What shoes work best with an asymmetric corset dress?

Go for heels that elongate the leg, like strappy stilettos, metallic pumps, or Perspex heels. Ankle straps are great for showing off high-low hems. Minimalist sandals also keep the focus on the dress.

What jewelry pairs well with this dress style?

Statement earrings, layered necklaces, and delicate body chains complement the look. Cuff bracelets or an armcuff add flair. Stacked rings with gemstones tie everything together.