Corsets. Once seen exclusively as a women’s garment, they are now making a bold return—this time with men confidently claiming their space in this iconic silhouette. On a recent episode of the Brief Talk Podcast, I sat down with Kristina Bonfield and John from X-Dress and BodyAware to explore this growing trend, from history to styling to fit.
A Brief History: Men Were the First Corset Wearers?
Kristina shared a fascinating fact—men have been wearing corsets for over a thousand years. Dating back to the Minoan civilization, statues have depicted men in underbust corsets made of wood, wool, and even whalebone. “They wanted to improve posture or perhaps hide the effects of too much wine and grapes,” Kristina quipped.
The Fit Factor: Getting It Right
Wearing a corset isn’t as simple as slipping on a pair of briefs—it takes time, effort, and a bit of guidance. My first corset experience? Let’s just say it involved shoulder strain and frustration.
“There are tips and tricks,” Kristina explained. “Ideally, it’s a two-person job, but you can learn to lace it yourself, just like tying shoes.”
John added, “When picking a size, start with your waist, not your chest. And subtract 2 to 4 inches from your waist measurement—that’s your corset size.”
Trust me, this advice would’ve saved me some serious struggle.
Style That Stands Out
Corsets aren’t just for the bedroom anymore. They’re showing up under suit jackets, paired with kilts, and even layered over spandex bodysuits. “There are no rules anymore,” I said during the show—and I mean it. Men are redefining what it means to be sexy, stylish, and confident.
Kristina loves the creativity: “A black satin corset with a white shirt and kilt? It’s amazingly sexy.”
John imagined a corset in spandex or even a sports team-themed design. “The fabric possibilities are endless—mesh, satin, even denim.”
Confidence is Key
“Wearing a corset makes you feel like a Marvel superhero,” Kristina said. “It improves posture, holds you in, and gives you that confident edge.”
But let’s be real—this isn’t for the faint of heart. “It’s not for the shy guy,” I pointed out. “Wearing one out will get attention, but if you’re making a statement, own it.”
Challenges and Creativity
From design to photo shoots, corsets are one of the most complex garments to produce. “It’s a mathematical nightmare,” Kristina laughed. But X-Dress continues to evolve the designs, collaborating with corset experts and exploring fresh styles.
And for those wondering, yes—there’s even a trick involving a roll of paper towels to help get the perfect fit during photoshoots. No shame in a little behind-the-scenes magic.
Final Tips from the Experts
If you’re thinking of trying a corset:
• Start with a front-zip or underbust corset for easier wear.
• Use your waist measurement (not chest) and subtract 2–4 inches.
• Open the lacing before you try it on—make it easier on yourself.
• Don’t go it alone. Reach out to John at BodyAware—he’s there to help.
The Future Is Wide Open
As John said, “When left to our own devices, we come up with some pretty interesting ways to wear things.” And he’s right. More men are pushing past gendered fashion norms, embracing lingerie as a form of expression and fun.
To quote Kristina: “If women can wear them, men can wear them.”
And we couldn’t agree more. Listen wherever you get podcasts
