How to Style Bustier Tops

Co-authored by Jordan Stolch and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: March 27, 2022 References

Bustier tops aren’t just for the bedroom anymore! You might have seen them on models, runways, and influencers alike. Styling these tops can be a little tricky at first, but with the right pieces from your closet, you can walk out the door with confidence every time.

1

Look taller with high-waisted bottoms.

The high rise pairs well with the slim fit of a bustier. Pick out your favorite pair of high-waisted pants or shorts, or go with a skirt for a more feminine look. Slip on your favorite bustier top to finish off your outfit and extend the length of your body.^{[1]
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- To go out for the night in this look, add a pair of strappy heels and a small handbag.
- For a more casual look, stick to ballet flats or sneakers.

2

Contrast your bustier with a knitwear piece.

You can tone down your bustier outfit with something cozy. Grab a long cardigan, a cropped cardigan, or a scarf to make your bustier top a little more casual.^{[2]
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- This is a great way to take a bustier top from a night look to a daytime one.
- If you’re going for a more modern silhouette, pick a cropped cardigan that hits you at your waist.
- Pair your outfit with skinny jeans for a casual look or a mini skirt for going out.

3

Keep it casual with a pair of shorts.

Bustier tops are perfect for the hot summer months. Pair your top with shorts for a cute, simple outfit.^{[3]
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- Try denim shorts for a classic look, or elevate your outfit with khaki or linen shorts.
- Throw on a fitted bomber jacket to keep your arms warm.
- Finish off your look with a pair of sneakers or mules.

4

Go out for the night in a mini skirt.

It’s easy to dress up in a bustier top. Throw on a skirt that hits about mid-thigh to hit the town or go out on a date.^{[4]
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- For a more flowy silhouette, pick a skater skirt or A-line skirt.
- For a slimming silhouette, go for a pencil skirt.

5

Dress up with a pair of trousers.

This faux-professional look is chic and sophisticated. Put on a pair of fitted trousers, then add your bustier top for a fun mix of professionalism and fashion.^{[5]
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- You probably can’t take this look to the office, but you can play up the business casual feel by adding a boxy blazer on top.^{[6]
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  Erin Micklow
  Professional Stylist
  Expert Interview. 23 April 2019.}
- Add a pair of stilettos or platform heels to complete this look.^{[7]
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  Erin Micklow
  Professional Stylist
  Expert Interview. 23 April 2019.}

6

Show off your feminine side with a maxi skirt.

The long, flowy fabric is a good combination with the tight fit of a bustier. Pick a skirt that hits at your ankles for a flirty, fun outfit.^{[8]
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- If you want to make your outfit a little sexier, pick out a maxi skirt that’s mostly sheer.
- Pair your look with wedges or sandals before you head out.
- Pack your essentials in a small backpack or a large handbag.

7

Layer your bustier top over a button-down.

This fashion-forward outfit will have you turning heads. Put on a large button-down, then pull your bustier top over it. Pair your look with jeans or trousers and a small handbag.^{[9]
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- This is a great way to combine different styles while still looking cohesive.
- Finish off your outfit with a pair of combat boots or strappy heels.

8

Go out for the night in a sheer top.

This trendy look will help you show some skin in a fun, flirty way. Put on a mesh shirt that shows some skin, then throw your bustier top over it.^{[10]
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- Pair your look with trousers or jeans for a more casual outfit.
- Or, go for a flowy midi skirt to show some leg.

9

Add some edge with a leather jacket.

The flirty lace on a bustier top could use a little punk rock. Add a black motorcycle jacket to your outfit to turn heads all night.^{[11]
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- If a black jacket is a little too much for you, go for a white or cream one instead.
- Or wear a cropped suede jacket.^{[12]
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  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}
- You can wear a mini skirt, jeans, or joggers with this look.
- Finish off with a pair of heels or combat boots.

10

Accessorize with a statement necklace.

Bustier tops already bring a lot to the table. When you’re picking out accessories, go for one large necklace to draw attention to your neckline.^{[13]
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- A long necklace creates the illusion of length and makes you look thinner.^{[14]
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  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}
- Gold jewelry tends to be flashier and look more striking, which can help draw attention to your look.
- If you want to add a little more bling to your outfit, add some bracelets or a few rings, too.

Community Q&A
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Question

How can I make a bustier more of an everyday piece?

Erin Micklow
Professional Stylist
Erin Micklow is an independent wardrobe stylist and image consultant based in Los Angeles, California. She has worked in the acting, beauty, and style industries for over 10 years. She has worked for clients such as Hot Topic, Steady Clothing, and Unique Vintage, and her work has been featured in The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Millionaire Matchmaker.

Erin Micklow

Professional Stylist

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Pair a bustier with more conservative pieces like slacks and a blazer for a sophisticated yet chic look. Add a pair of sexy stilettos or platform heels to finish off the look.