What does corselette mean?
A corselette is a close-fitting, corset-like bodice that covers the bust and extends to the waist. It is commonly described in British fashion usage as a corset or similar garment worn over a blouse, and the American form corselet is also encountered. The term belongs to clothing and historical dress vocabulary rather than everyday speech. In literary descriptions of period dress, the word can evoke a decorative or structurally firm upper-body garment, often appearing as part of formal or theatrical costume. Although closely related to corset, a corselette is generally presented as the upper bodice or vest, especially one worn over another garment. Its uncommon modern usage gives it a slightly historical or specialist flavor, while its precise name is useful when describing vintage clothing, costume design, or period fiction. The word ultimately traces through French to the Latin corpus, meaning “body,” reflecting the garment's close-fitting relationship to the body.
nounA close-fitting bodice or vest worn over the bust and extending to the waist, typically over a blouse; also, a corset-like garment of this kind.
- A close-fitting, corset-like bodice or vest covering the bust and extending to the waist, especially one worn over a blouse.
"She wore a black corselette over her ivory blouse."
"She wore a black corselette over her ivory blouse."
"The museum labels the garment a silk corselette from the early nineteenth century."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"The collection includes two corselettes from the Victorian period."
Corselette comes from French and ultimately from the Latin corpus, meaning “body”—a fitting root for a garment molded to the wearer.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does corselette come from?
English borrowed corselette from French corselette, a diminutive form of corset. French corset in turn derives from an older word meaning “little body,” ultimately from the Latin corpus, meaning “body.” Its development reflects the garment's close-fitting shape and its relationship to the French corsage and English corset.
How corselette is actually used
This is chiefly clothing and historical dress terminology and is uncommon in everyday modern speech. The American spelling corselet is more usual, while corset or bodice may be preferred in contemporary usage.
Easily confused with corselette
A corset is a structured garment that supports and shapes the torso, whereas a corselette specifically denotes a close-fitting upper bodice or vest, often worn over a blouse.