The corset has become a game-changing accessory over the past few seasons. The piece reigned in the streets this past Fashion Week, when showgoers like Kate Foley and Natasha Goldenberg wore Prada’s wide lace-up belts from the Fall 2016 collection over bright green floral-printed frocks. Not long after, celebrities and models like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid got in on the body-hugging fun in sexed-up versions of the look worn as going-out tops.
Sure, to the average fashion fan, the corset may seem like a difficult accessory to pull off—too femme, too risqué, or too costume. But wearing a corset is actually not such a far-fetched proposition. It can even be a complement to the classic button-down. For an in-the-flesh example, look to street style fixture Sarah Harris, who was photographed during the Spring 2017 shows giving the accessory some tomboy flair.
Looking to lace up? Let Harris serve as fail-safe inspiration: A corset can always give a collared shirt a pretty silhouette. But remixing the piece isn’t out of the question either: Worn on top of a knit tank top, the corset can evoke a more preppy feel, and with a loose-fitting tunic, it can provide an enviable curve.
Here, see all the ways to strap into this season’s coolest trend and retain your own boyish brand of cool.