What does steampunk mean?
Steampunk is a genre of science fiction set in a historical period, featuring steam-powered machines rather than advanced technologies as we imagine them today.
This fashion, which resembles gothic in some aspects, has inspired an entire movement that has influenced art, media, and fashion in general. It incorporates gears and cogs into clothing, while the pieces themselves are clearly inspired by the retro Victorian era.
Steampunk is a trend followed with passion by women and men who identify with it. In this guide, we present everything you need to know to incorporate a retro steampunk outfit into your wardrobe.
What is steampunk fashion?
As mentioned above, steampunk combines retro clothing inspired by the Victorian era with a mix of what would have been perceived as advanced technology at the time. This explains the sometimes higher price of a steampunk model, due to the intricate details that make it up.
The steampunk corset is not a style designed primarily to be seductive, but rather technological and narrative — even if an overbust steampunk corset can also enhance the bust, just like a more traditional corset model. That is simply not its primary goal. Pair it with a beautiful short skirt in the same style, in black or brown, for a cohesive ensemble.
As for steampunk fashion, it is a marriage of several elements: expect to see a lot of Victorian-inspired clothing, adorned with mechanical mixes such as gears, cogs, and clocks, in a nod to the Industrial Revolution.
Over time, steampunk has solidified as an alternative culture and has gained a loyal following. Today, it has taken on a more romantic element, allowing everyone to incorporate fantasy and science fiction elements into their everyday outfit.
Steampunk combines Victorian-inspired clothing choices with what that era perceived as the technology of the future, making it a subculture straddling fantasy and science fiction.
It is not surprising that steampunk has made its way into the media and influenced all kinds of creators — artists, fashion designers, filmmakers, writers — as the style has been incorporated into many projects paying tribute to the retro aesthetic over the years.
What is the ideal steampunk corset for you?
The steampunk corset, overbust or underbust with integrated steel boning, forms a centerpiece of the vintage steampunk style, often adorned with embroidery and lace. It cinches the silhouette and emphasizes the hips and bust, making it an ideal outfit if you are looking to sophisticate your style.
If you are a fan of steampunk fashion and like to show it off through a corset that pays tribute to it, you will find the ideal steampunk corset in our shop. Fall for the piece that will complete your look, from S to 7XL! Steampunk corsets are fun and original pieces in a woman's wardrobe.
But with so many different styles and designs, it can be difficult to know which of our retro steampunk corsets is right for you. Here are three essential things to look for when choosing your steampunk corset.
Before continuing, take the time to browse our collection of steampunk corsets and imagine the type of character you want to portray. Want to buy your steampunk corset right now? The experience then becomes a true visual story to tell.
Choosing your steampunk corset: the color
The color on this type of model is often brown or black, sometimes both at once. The choice of color is very important to create a steampunk look that suits you. Forget solid, smooth black: the steampunk subculture ventures rather into vintage, neutral, and earthy tones, from brown leather to distressed black. Think of old sepia photographs and faded antique maps, and you will be on the right track.
The steampunk look relies mainly on cream and tan colors, while accent pieces like chains and brass come in burnt sienna, bronze, copper, and chocolate.
The material of the steampunk corset
The material is also essential to express the steampunk genre through a garment. Wide vertical stripes in brocade are popular, as is jacquard — both are particularly striking on the silhouette, paired with details like pockets or leather straps.
Intricate patterns accentuate the richness of a garment and pair well with the steampunk color palette. Shiny and metallic fabrics are also often preferred. That said, practically any material can make a beautiful corset in this style, as long as it has the right colors and the right finishes.
What are the differences between steampunk fashion and gothic fashion?
We often tend to confuse the two styles, and yet the nuances in terms of ideology and style are very real. The main difference lies in the expression itself: steampunk, as a Victorian-inspired style, seeks class and overt sophistication, while the gothic universe rather seeks a dark and almost macabre beauty. A gothic-style pirate corset will therefore not have the same look as a pirate model made in a steampunk spirit.
Various steampunk objects
The steampunk corset itself comes in several forms: the corseted belt with various patterns, the structured overbust corset, or the more discreet underbust model. You always find this same combination of steel and fabric that makes the signature of the style, with a price that varies according to the rarity of the finishes.
How to wear a steampunk corset to slim your silhouette?
If you are comfortable wearing your steampunk corset regularly, you can perfectly incorporate it into your routine to visually slim your silhouette while wearing it. If your overbust corset has laces, steel eyelets, and internal boning, it proves particularly versatile for this use. We have in stock, for all budgets, an entire collection of versatile steampunk models.
Whether for a theater scene or more regular use at home, some models in our collection look like a long-sleeved vest, while others are underbust and more discreet.
What to wear with a steampunk corset?
Pair your steampunk corset with a belt, for example, or with a skirt, pants, or a steampunk-inspired dress. To avoid the "costume" effect, opt for more contemporary pieces in contrast: a black leather steampunk corset, adorned with chains or industrial eyelets, makes a sensation worn over an oversized white shirt or a simple minimalist t-shirt. Steampunk fashion also readily incorporates lace, black or brown leather, asymmetrical or star patterns — choose stockings that align with the genre. Finally, wear your corset or steampunk belt with confidence: this fashion encourages individuality and creativity, so don't hesitate to experiment with different mixes to express your own style.
At Univers Corset, the steampunk corset is a must-have!
The pleasure of steampunk style does not stop at the bustier: every steampunk corset in our collection is designed to make you stand out and create a unique outfit.
Take a look at our many steampunk corsets and start your purchase today for a successful burlesque style or cosplay! If you have a question regarding the price, the in-stock availability of an item, or the delivery of your corset, don't hesitate to send us an email.
Our collection of steampunk corsets awaits you, with sizes from S to 7XL and all budgets. Also know that delivery is free on our entire shop!
Among our retro-inspired models, our leather corsets are a must-have!