Why our steel mesh corsets are so effective

Steel corsets are among our favorite options for waist training, and one of the best things about them is that they come in a variety of fabrics and styles!

 

Whether you want to use one as part of a waist training routine or simply to enhance your outfit from time to time, there is a corset that will be perfect for the occasion.

 

We are delighted to introduce two gorgeous corsets from the Univers Corset collection, designed to make you feel great. What sets them apart is their unique fabric: mesh.

 

Comfort, compression and appeal

 

Black Lace Bustier Corset is a full-length mesh corset. Its underbust support and full torso coverage create a classic fit that slims the waist by several inches, controls and smooths target areas such as the back and lower tummy, and lifts your bust.

 

Like other steel-boned corsets, this garment slims the silhouette thanks to strong, flexible steel boning built into the bodice and lacing at the back. The waist band helps keep the garment in place. The difference lies in the breathable mesh that allows air to circulate and creates a sexy look without compromising the garment's slimming power.

 

The full-length corset has a shorter version, the Black Flared Sleeve Waspie Corset.  This waspie style uses the same materials but is cut differently. Although it is an underbust corset, the top is flat rather than curved, and the entire garment is a few inches shorter. This garment is effective at creating a dramatic waist shape to achieve a sensually curved silhouette.

 

If you are unfamiliar with mesh corsets and are wondering if they are right for you, we have gathered some common questions about what sets them apart and how effective they are.

 

 Cotton, satin or mesh: What is the difference?

 

Steel-boned corsets can be made from several different fabrics. The most common are cotton, satin and mesh.

 

Satin is a smooth, soft material used in many classic corset styles. Its shine creates an elegant finish and a very smooth base over which clothes can glide.

 

While satin is beautiful, its only drawback is that it is the least breathable type of fabric. If you wear it in hot weather or with multiple layers, you may get a little warmer and sweat more than you would like. Although sweating is normal when you are training your waist, if it makes you extremely uncomfortable, you may prefer another fabric for other times of the year.

 

Cotton is a more comfortable fabric that is soft and cool against the skin. It is also lighter than satin. So, even though a cotton corset does not offer the same shiny, smooth finish as a satin corset, it will help you feel cooler and lighter, making it ideal for warmer temperatures. Because it is lightweight, it can also be easier to conceal under lighter clothing.

 

Mesh is obviously the most breathable corset option because it is the only fabric that allows air to circulate under the corset. Mesh corsets can be worn either under clothing or as outerwear if you want to stand out!

 

 

The mesh corset and the latex waist trainer

 

There is a lot of confusion when it comes to understanding the difference between mesh corsets and latex waist trainers, so let's clear things up.

 

Waist trainers, commonly called "waist trainers", are most often made of latex. They work by applying compression to your waist using the force of the latex. They stimulate heat and perspiration around your waist as part of the waist training process.

 

Steel-boned corsets work similarly, but instead of providing slimming power through latex, they use the garment's structure, reinforced with steel boning and held in place by lacing. Generally, because they can be pulled to achieve a custom tightness, corsets allow for a more dramatic hourglass curve.

 

The confusing thing about waist trainers and corsets is that both can be used effectively for waist training (wearing a slimming garment daily as part of a continuous waist training routine).

 

The biggest difference you will notice between a latex waist trainer and a mesh corset is breathability. Both styles slim the waist, but a latex waist trainer makes you sweat much more. Although sweating is one of the reasons that waist training works when you wear a waist trainer, it is obviously not the most comfortable option in a hot climate. A mesh corset is therefore ideal for waist training in summer.

 

Can you sleep with a mesh corset?

 

Although not everyone wants to wear a corset at night, it is a good way to get a few hours of wear in your waist trainer. For the best results, we recommend wearing it for at least eight hours a day.

 

You may find that a mesh corset is more comfortable to sleep in because of its breathability. Every sleeper is a little different. The only way to know if the corset is right for you is to try it.

 

See also: Tips for sleeping with your corset.

 

How to care for a mesh corset

 

Mesh corsets should receive the same love and care as any other corset we recommend so that they stay in excellent condition. Here are some tips:

 

Break in or season your corset before tightening the laces. You should wear it tight for about one hour a day until the corset begins to fit your silhouette like a glove, after about two weeks. See also: How to season (break in) your new corset.

Always handle your corset with care when putting it on or taking it off. Loosen the laces generously so you can get in and out easily without deforming the garment.

Clean your corset very carefully. Never machine wash it; if needed, spot clean it with a mild detergent and let it dry. With mesh, you should not have much surface area to clean! If necessary, take it to a dry cleaner.

Air out your corset after wearing it by hanging it over a chair or hanger. Never store it in direct sunlight and make sure it is dry before storing it in a closet.

 

Effectiveness of mesh corsets

 

Some people wonder if mesh corsets are as effective for slimming as other fabrics because you do not sweat as much when wearing them. The answer is yes!

 

It is true that you will not stimulate your body heat like you would with a latex training band, for example. But because it is not the fabric that makes a corset work, but rather the structure with steel boning and a lace-up back, you will still get dramatic slimming results while staying comfortable.

 

How to determine the size of a mesh corset

 

The most important measurement you need to take to size a corset is your waist. Using a vinyl or fabric measuring tape, measure the narrowest part of your waist, about 5 cm above your belly button. Make sure the tape is level with the floor and is held flat against your skin without being too tight.

 

Follow our size chart for the corset you want. If your waist is 27 inches, for example, you will need size 22 for an Univers Corset mesh corset. Waist size is not the same as corset size!

 

Note that because mesh corsets are thinner, you may be able to tighten them more than other corsets. Make sure to try your corset and ensure you have enough room to tighten it before you start seasoning it for wear.

 

How to wear a mesh corset

 

The possibilities are endless when it comes to styling a mesh corset!

 

First, let's talk about how to put it on if you are a corset novice. Put the garment on and pull it up over your abdomen with the laces at the back (make sure it is on the right side!). With the help of a mirror or a friend, gently tighten the laces, as you would with shoelaces, but from the top and bottom toward the middle. Tie the garment in the center. Remember that the first few times you wear it, you need to break it in and not tighten it until it is fitted.

 

You can wear this corset against your bare skin if you want maximum breathability. It is a sexy lingerie piece in addition to being a slimming undergarment.

 

Some people prefer to wear a thin top under the corset for more comfort and to prevent their skin oils from getting on the corset. This can help it last longer.

 

A mesh corset is very lightweight, making it ideal to wear under even lighter clothing. You can use it to slim your waist daily or to enhance your silhouette for special occasions.

 

A mesh corset is also a fantastic piece of outerwear. Wear it over your favorite tank top or light blouse for a sexy and bold look.

 

Do you have questions about corsets? Our team of professional stylists is always happy to answer your questions.