Lighter than corsets, bustiers usually have more stretch for more comfort than corsets. They usually have light boning, often polycarbonate plastic, to provide some shaping. They sometimes lace up the back like a corset, but more often have hook and eye or other closure.

Because they have less structure than corsets, they are easier to move in making them perfect for dancing or....other activity. Bustiers generally have a single layer of fabric or very light lining and the fabrics themselves are usually lighter so they can tear if worn too tightly. Some bustiers are designed for use as lingerie or undergarments, others as outerwear.

Bustiers with boning do provide some shaping, but are not intended for heavy use such as body modification or corset training. For heavy use, we recommend our steel boned corsets only.