Gilded in Gold

Move over, minimalism! It’s time for the gilded corsets to dazzle with daring statement looks. This year, custom couture corsets have transformed runways and red carpets into battlegrounds, where modern-day fashion royalty reigns supreme. From socialites to supermodels and actresses, the charm of gold and silver shield-like bustiers has captivated the fashion elite, adding an empowering twist to contemporary couture.

At Vogue World Paris 2024, supermodel Gigi Hadid closed the show in a breathtaking Balmain gown designed by Olivier Rousteing featuring a gold bustier that was compared to a “modern goddess.” While at her pre-wedding cruise celebrations Radhika Merchant added a unique flair to the golden armour trend by wearing a bespoke creation by Grace Ling Couture. Socialite Natasha Poonawalla made a statement in a custom silver Mugler corset with a draped ensemble. Whereas, actresses like Anne Hathaway, Penelope Cruz and Zendaya were spotted in Mugler’s visionary metallic corsets with futuristic design elements for various high-fashion events. The newest diamond of the season, Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan took the trend to new heights in a 22-karat gold-plated corset by designer Suhani Parekh. Handcrafted at MISHO’s studio in Mumbai, this stunning piece showcased the meticulous artistry and luxurious appeal of gilded fashion.

Fashion warriors

This red-hot trend embodies a powerful fusion of past and present, drawing inspiration from historical icons like Joan of Arc and the Onna Musha warriors, reimagined through the lens of modern glamour on the red carpet, remarks couturier Varun Bahl. Historically, corsets were often viewed as symbols of restriction, enforcing narrow beauty standards. Today, they serve as a powerful fashion statement of empowerment, allowing individuals to reclaim their bodies and express their sexuality on their terms. Varun says, “It’s all about gilded metallic corsets and breastplates—bold, empowering silhouettes that redefine glamour by challenging stereotypes and celebrating fierceness and fabulousness.”

Gilded grandeur

The comeback of gold armoured corsets has gained momentum because not only does it highlight masterful workmanship, but it also shows off a bold sense of style that distinguishes itself on social media and red carpets where celebrities congregate. Pearl Uppal, creative director and designer at Talking Threads, who specialises in making corsets for evening wear and bridal lines, believes this is a huge trend globally. She informs, “The making of metallic corsets and breastplates involves intricate design and couture craftsmanship, which can make them quite expensive. The cost is attributable to the materials used—often high-quality metals and luxurious fabrics—and the labour-intensive process, which can include metalworking and detailed hand-finishing. Frankly, as for comfort, even with modern construction techniques, these pieces are generally less comfortable than their pure fabric counterparts, primarily due to their rigid nature.”

Traditionally, corsets weren't exactly known for their ease of wear; however, newage designers often prioritise both aesthetics and wearability with flexibility and lightweight materials, ensuring that wearers can move comfortably while maintaining the dramatic effect. Speaking about the effort behind creating an exclusive piece, Varun explains, “The exclusivity lies in the meticulous craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials. These are not mass-produced pieces; rather, they are artisanal works of art meticulously crafted by skilled hands, making them highly coveted and collectible. Modern corsets are designed with inclusivity in mind, offering a range of sizes and styles that flatter diverse body shapes without compromising comfort. Crafting gilded metallic corsets and breast shields involves skilled artistry and specialized materials, which contribute to their exclusivity and higher cost. The price can vary widely depending on the design complexity, the type of metal used, and the craftsmanship involved.”

Moulded couture

Merging historical inspiration with modern haute couture, the high-fashion metallic corsets add a striking element to formal wear. The gilded corset represents strength, confidence, and a touch of regal charm that commands attention. Kaushal Goenka, founder of Mish Designs Ltd. mentions, “These corsets resonate with the desire for individuality and empowerment in fashion and when high-profile celebrities endorse them, it amplifies their appeal. Creating gilded metallic corsets and breast shields is no doubt a highly specialised and labour-intensive process. The cost is driven by the use of premium materials such as metals and gold leaf and the intricate craftsmanship involved. These pieces often require hours of meticulous handwork by skilled artisans, owing to their high price point. While gilded metallic corsets and breast shields are designed to make a bold fashion statement, comfort can vary. They mostly have adjustable fittings and padded linings to enhance comfort.”

Historically, corsets were often viewed as symbols of restriction, enforcing narrow beauty standards. Today, they serve as a powerful fashion statement of empowerment, allowing individuals to reclaim their bodies and express their sexuality on their terms. The comeback of gold armoured corsets has gained momentum because it highlights masterful workmanship and exudes supreme boldness.

The making of metallic corsets and breastplates involves intricate design and couture craftsmanship, which can make them quite expensive,” says Pearl Uppal from Talking Threads.