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PHOTO BY EMMA MCINTYRE PHOTOGRAPHY
While you may think of the fabric (tulle, lace, satin, crepe, chiffon, Mikado) or embellishments (beading, feathers, pearls, crystals, sequins) as being the most important aspects of a wedding dress, the construction of your gown is also something that can make a big—and stunning—difference.
Take, for example, corset wedding dresses. This boudoir-inspired silhouette not only serves as a form of internal support, which can be used in lieu of a bra, but will instantly shift a bride’s aesthetic in an elegant, alluring way. Though corsetry has often been reserved for after-hours (and at-home) happenings, today's designers are now embracing this old-world detailing and proving that this design element can feel quite modern and perfect for a walk down the aisle.
Therefore continue on to discover the most standout corset dresses from classics like Amsale and Reem Acra, as well as buzzworthy labels including Markarian and For Love & Lemons.
Most Classic
Amsale Charleston Dress
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Courtesy of Amsale
This simple-yet-statement gown lends an extra dose of volume and glamour thanks to the full skirt. What we love, though, is its gorgeous corset bodice that grounds the overall silhouette.
Price at time of publish: $5,295
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Radzimir | Length: Floor-length
Most Romantic
Galia Lahav G-501
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Courtesy of Galia Lahav
The innovative use of silk tulle and organza makes this corset dress extra romantic. It’s the ideal gown for the effortless bride.
Price at time of publish: Must inquire for price
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Silk organza and silk organza | Length: Floor-length
For a Casual Wedding
Anna October Snowdrop Asymmetric Maxi Dress
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Moda Operandi
The ruffled detailing and bustier top gives this stylish dress a wedding stamp of approval. Accessorize with strappy-heeled sandals for a fun finish.
Price at time of publish: $805
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester and cotton | Length: Tea-length
Best Sleeves
Markarian Clementine Gown
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Courtesy of Markarian
Marakian's Clementine is visual evidence that puff sleeves and a corset silhouette are a match made in wedding heaven. Prairie-inspired brides, you’ve found your wedding dress.
Price at time of publish: $7,395
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Silk | Length: Floor-length
Best Silhouette
RAISAVANESSA Draped-Tie Side-Slit Corset Satin Gown
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Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
If your vibe is trendy and nontraditional, this striking gown is a top-notch choice. It would look especially stunning with a dramatic long veil and statement-making shoes.
Price at time of publish: $2,550
Size Range: 2-12 | Material: Satin | Length: Floor-length
Most Sexy
House of CB Emilie Gown
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Courtesy of House of CB
The corset bodice and figure-hugging silhouette from House of CB make for a truly stunning and sexy ensemble. Keep it simple and finish the look with diamond studs and a tennis necklace.
Price at time of publish: $975
Size Range: XS-L+ | Material: Satin | Length: Floor-length
Best All-Over Tulle
Vera Wang Bride Nuncia Dress
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Courtesy of Vera Wang Bride
This gorgeous number by Vera Wang Bride is made with crystal-embedded tulle that helps elongate a bride's silhouette. If you’re eschewing tradition and looking for a gown that will absolutely stand out, this stylish pick is an exciting choice.
Price at time of publish: Must inquire for price
Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Tulle | Length: Floor-length
Best Mini
For Love & Lemons Tatiana Mini Dress
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Courtesy of Revolve
Corsets and lace are a dynamic duo, particularly when the two are designed by cult favorite For Love & Lemons. This dress would be perfect for a bachelorette party or as an after-party look.
Price at time of publish: $268
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Sheer mesh and textured lace | Length: Mini-length
Best Exposed Bodice
Dana Harel Natalie Gown
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Courtesy of Dana Harel
The exposed corsetry on this ethereal gown complements the billowy silk organza skirt, creating the perfect balance of modern and classic.
Price at time of publish: Must inquire for price
Size: Made to order | Materials: Tulle silk organza | Length: Floor-length
Most Simple
Anne Barge Lamar Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Anne Barge
Minimalists rejoice! This simple, structured gown by Anne Barge is absolute perfection. Follow the styling lead and keep accessories minimal to lean into the pared-back aesthetic.
Price at time of publish: $3,400
Size: Made to order | Materials: Mikado scuba | Length: Floor-length
Best Detailing
Reem Acra Bouquet Wedding Dress
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Courtesy of Reem Acra
For the lover of detailing, the artisanry on this bold gown is memorable and bold; the kind of dress you’ll wish you could wear more than once.
Price at time of publish: Must inquire for price
Size: Made to order | Materials: Lace | Length: Floor-length
Vintage-Inspired
Marchesa Strapless Crystal Embellished Metallic Chiffon Gown
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Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
If you’re searching for a vintage-inspired gown, it doesn’t get much more charming than this metallic strapless dress by Marchesa. It features ornate threadwork and crystal embroidery on the corset bodice for a unique look.
Price at time of publish: $5,995
Size: 2-12 | Materials: Metallic crinkle chiffon | Length: Floor-length
Best Hemline
Bridal by ELOQUII Corset Gown With Bubble Skirt
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Courtesy of Eloquii
The dramatic bubble hemline and corset top are a playful pairing for this unique gown. Wear your hair swept to one side for a nonchalant finish.
Price at time of publish: $499
Size: 14-28 | Materials: Satin | Length: Floor-length
Best Mermaid
Norma Kamali Corset Gown
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This fully structured corset dress lends itself to be at once stylish and simple. Plus, with the flattering mermaid silhouette, you have the perfect modern bridal moment.
Price at time of publish: $725
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Lace overlay | Length: Floor-length
Celebrity Favorite
Galia Lahav Elise Satin Wedding Dress in Pale Gold
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Courtesy of Galia Lahav
While many corset wedding dresses feature a strapless neckline, this one-of-a-kind piece proves an off-the-shoulder, asymmetric silhouette is equally well-suited. What's more, this is the exact dress actress Sarah Hyland wore for her wedding after-party.
Price at time of publish: $2,790
Size: 0-18 | Materials: Satin | Length: Floor-length
Most Trendy
Rasario Halter Tie-Neck Gown with Corset Bodice
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Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
You will be sure to stand out (and as you should) in this halter gown by Rosario. The corset bodice and tied neckline offer a look that's at once trendy and chic.
Price at time of publish: $2,436
Size: 00-8 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Length: Floor-length
Best Modern Corsetry
Eisen Stein Violet Gown
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Courtesy of Eisen Stein
Eisen Stein is well-known for its modern takes on corsetry, so it’s no surprise they created the perfect corset wedding dress. We especially love the sequin embroidery and floral belted waistline.
Price at time of publish: Must inquire for price
Size: Made to order | Materials: Tulle | Length: Floor-length
Best Back Detail
Berta Style 23-105
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Courtesy of Berta
For a unique take on the corset trend, look for a gown that features bustier elements on the back of the dress, like this one from Berta.
Price at time of publish: Must inquire for price
Size: Made to order | Materials: Lace | Length: Floor-length
What to Look For When Shopping for a Corset Wedding Dress
By their very nature, corsets are built into wedding dresses to offer support and structure in a gown. When shopping for a look with this particular design element, it's important to be completely honest with yourself, and ensure that you can absolutely wear a corset comfortably. While most wedding gowns are made to order and can be fitted to perfectly fit your frame, the boning of a corset does sometimes cause a bit of discomfort no matter how tailored a look may be. So, when it comes to corset bridal gowns, you should pay close attention to the fit in order to ensure you will feel your best on the big day. What's more, brides should also decide whether they'd like their corsets to be exposed or hidden. Gowns with exposed corsets tend to be sexier, as the bodice is made with a sheer-like fabric, while dresses that hide this design element tend to show less skin.