Celebs Can't Stop Wearing the Villain-Era Corset — the Sexy Version of Regencycore

Updated on 10/19/2023 at 4:50 PM

In 2020, "Bridgerton"-inspired corsets launched the regencycore trend that we're still seeing circulate today. But recent celebrity looks have us pondering the evolution of the corset top, which, in 2023, feels a bit more va-va-voom. After the premiere of Netflix's "Bridgerton," wardrobed by costume designer Sophie Canale, Victorian-era details trickled down to the runway, from pouf-sleeves and opera-length gloves to springy pastels and florals. Shopping guides included the best corset tops, alongside ornate jewelry, pearls, satin and crystal-embellished shoes. But the regencycore trend felt dreamy and romantic — and the new version, which we're dubbing the villain-era corset, is anything but.

The villian-era corset harkens back to styles from the 19th century, which boasted a straight or rigid neckline that seemed to lift and emphasize the bustline. Embodying a witchy tone, the corsets are structured and edgy, making them appropriate for fall and consistent with popular trends like the dark-academia aesthetic.

When Selena Gomez stepped out in Paris flaunting Marc Jacobs's corset with structured boning and a low-cut neckline, her outfit added a villain-era vibe to quiet luxury. Similarly, Sydney Sweeney's vintage Miu Miu corset minidress emitted tough sophistication and mystery. Sofía Vergara offered perhaps the most wearable take, showing off her signature sultry style in a corseted LBD.

Keep scrolling to see the most memorable iterations of the villian-era corset so far, as seen on your favorite celebrities. Then, get inspiration for unique ways to style your own corset top.

Taylor Swift Wearing a Versace Corset

Taylor Swift walked hand-in-hand with beau Travis Kelce wearing a cropped corset top by Versace for the "SNL" after party on Oct. 15.

Taylor Swift Wearing a Balenciaga Corset

The "Cruel Summer" singer supported beau Travis Kelce at the Kansas City Chiefs Game on October 12, layering a Balenciaga corset under a Wear by Erin Andrews windbreaker.

Selena Gomez Wearing a Marc Jacobs Corset

Gomez headed out for dinner at Royal Monceau in Paris on Sept. 25, tucking a cropped Marc Jacobs corset into high-waisted trousers and completing the look with a shortened blazer, Mejuri hoops, and Betsey Johnson metallic platforms.

Sydney Sweeney Wearing a Miu Miu Corset

Sweeney was seen en route to an event at Paris Fashion Week on Oct. 2 in a vintage Miu Miu corseted minidress, worn over sheer tights and accessorized with a leather clutch. Her long blonde hair was tied back into a tight ponytail with a meticulous center part.

Sofía Vergara Wearing a Black Corset

While stepping out in Paris for dinner at Costes on Oct. 2, Vergara sported a formfitting black corset midi dress with a scalloped neckline, accessorizing her look with platform leather sandals, a chainstrap quilted purse, and structured wool jacket balanced on her shoulders.