The bustier has been around for many years and is primarily worn as a garment meant to tighten up the midriff and support the breasts for a more attractive silhouette. Today, women wear them as push-up bras, camisoles, half-slips, and in many other ways – pretty much in any way that a sense of fashion creativity takes a woman.

A Few Tasty Tidbits:

• A bustier may also be called a merry widow or a long-line bra.
• The garment was once made of stiff strips of bone, wood, or steel.
• Lana Turner, Madonna, and other celebrities have increased the fame of the bustier in recent decades.
• This clothing is worn inside as an undergarment and on the outside for a boldly alluring appeal.
• Lacy or not, the bustier can be worn on its own.

Do You Want to Get the Most Effect from a Bustier?

Whether you are looking for an undergarment or a fashion item, the bustier is only as effective as the steps you have taken before your purchase. Make sure to focus on fit, purpose, and style as you choose which selections to add to your wardrobe. If you want to achieve multiple goals, then you may want to consider adding more than one to your collection.

Step One: Get the Right Fit

This typically starts with selecting the right cup size. Your best bet is to go to a professional fitter, such as for a bra fitting. With the correct cup size, the rest of the garment can be adjusted, but with the wrong size, you won’t really be able to get the results you’re hoping for. Take time and make an effort to find the perfect fit for your own satisfaction.

Step Two: Remember the Goal

This particular style of shapewear is about increasing the appearance of your bust size. You can often expect to get some slimming directly below the bust, but if you are getting these same results in the bust area, then you’ve got the wrong fit. Women with a full bust generally need to purchase a bustier with stiffer material to provide more support while women with a smaller figure can often choose those garments with mesh panels. Think in terms of opulence and abundance.

Step Three: Enjoy Its Classic Appeal

The classic way to wear the bustier is without straps. This is true whether you are wearing it to shape your figure underneath a blouse or as a lingerie item. Some of the options include straps of all sizes and shapes (generally the straps are removable) and some even have garters. If you are wearing the garment underneath a strapless gown, then a sleek model that slims the waist and enhances the bust will create a charming silhouette. If, on the other hand, you are hoping for a lingerie option that enhances your best features while providing camouflage for other areas, you might choose a more structured option with added detailing.

Better Late Than Never

The bustier has made a strong comeback in recent years. They are more comfortable than the early versions and women are finding new ways to enjoy wearing this fun garment. If you don’t already have one or two of these tucked into your lingerie collection, it isn’t too late. Shop online for a wide selection of undergarments and items intended for outerwear.