Wuthering Heights Revives the Corset: The History of the Corset and How to Wear the Trend in 2026

The Corset or as the French like to call it Le Corset

For centuries, the corset was not a novelty or provocation — it was the architectural foundation of a woman’s wardrobe. Long before it became associated with lingerie, it functioned as precision tailoring beneath the tailoring itself, sculpting silhouettes and defining entire fashion eras.

Now, with the upcoming Wuthering Heights adaptation starring Margot Robbie reigniting interest in romantic, windswept Victorian dressing, the corset revival feels inevitable. Period drama has always influenced modern style cycles, and this latest reimagining of Emily Brontë’s gothic classic is already setting the tone for a return to structured waists, lace-up detailing and heritage femininity — but interpreted for a contemporary audience.

In 2026, the corset is less about costume and more about construction. Designers are softening boning, refining cuts and pairing corsetry with relaxed tailoring, denim and fluid skirts. The result is a piece that feels architectural rather than theatrical — a styling tool that adds definition, polish and quiet drama to even the simplest wardrobe.

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History of the Corset

Although it was originally from Italy, the concept was introduced by the Queen of France (1547-1559) Catherine de Medici in France in the 1500s and was accepted by the French court. A corset of this sort was a tight, elongated bodice worn beneath clothing according to the Corset Story.

The Hagen History Center reported that it gained popularity in France during the 1500s and 1600s. French Women in this period idealised the image of a small waist. Corsets were worn, as both under and outer garments, to flatten the stomach and emphasize the fullness of the skirts and chest.

Nowadays with the ‘underwear as outwear’ trend hitting the red carpet, it seems perfectly acceptable to wear what used to be an item worn under garments happily showcased for all the world to see. But how do you style a corset?

How to style a Corset

Add a feminine flare to your corset style and pair it up with a midi or maxi skirt. Mix it up with tulle fabric or pattered skirts for that touch of the creative flare of the season. The perfect style for those who love a pattern or feel like mixing the corset trend with the balletcore trend.

Now we have discussed the florals of the era and how you can incorporate this style into your wardrobe but what about the gorgeous pastels of the era? The light dusty pinks and blues are the perfect colours to finalise any look throughout the season. These looks can also be mixed with the use of satin material.

It doesn’t have to be feminine and girly. you can style your corset by pairing it with some loose trousers and trainers or go one step further and throw on an oversized blazer. Simple casual but still on-trend biker boots are also a good idea when wanting a more edgier look. You can even wear it over a crisp white shirt or on its own with a pair of jeans the style options are endless.

No matter how you’re feeling feminine or casual the corset can be styled any way you like and is a great addition to your French style wardrobe. Just remember you don’t need to squeeze it too tight.

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