Mesh, Net and Sheer (Summer) Corsets

Last updated on September 26th, 2021 at 03:53 pm

Tulle corset, 1875. From Thierry de Maigret

The first time I saw a mesh corset, it triggered a long-term obsession. What a wonderful idea! Conventional corsets can be hot and sweaty during summertime or in warmer climates. The oldest tulle corset I’ve seen is estimated to be from 1875 (featured left) and throughout the 1890’s it seems that linen mesh became more popular for corsetry, so the idea is not new! Fast forward to today; there has been a huge resurgence of summer corsetry, and they’re as strong as ever with the creation of new fibers and creative engineering. Mesh and net corsets are made with all different types of materials: cross-stitch canvas, linen mesh, Aida cloth, nylon mesh, polyester tulle, horsehair, and lace itself. In this article I’ll highlight some corsetieres and brands that offer modern mesh corsets.

*Please note that MANY corsetieres now create summer mesh corsets, and if I were to add them all, this post would be maddeningly long. Corsetieres, if your mesh corset does not appear in this list and you have one to submit, please send me an email here.

OTR Mesh Corsets
Open Net and Sports Mesh Corsets
Tulle Corsets
Lace Corsets
Bobbinet Corsets
Cotton (Lace, Aida Cloth, or Net) Corsets
Fine Woven (Sheer) Corsets
Horsehair Corsets
Elastic /Powermesh Corsets
Super Strong Mesh Training Corsets
Honorable Mentions


OTR/ RTW Corsets:

Hourglass standard length underbust corset, $114. Pattern by Lucy’s Corsetry, produced by Timeless Trends.

For those who love some whimsy along with staying cool in the summer: Timeless Trends has brought back mesh corsets to their corset line! Made from a fine-weave synthetic corsetry mesh, this corset will lend a curvy silhouette and it’s still covered under the lifetime warranty. Full disclosure, I am a retailer for TT, so you can find this corset in my shop!

True Corset Artemis in fine-weave black mesh, $99

True Corset stocks some budget “Playgirl” corsets in open-weave fishnet fabric, but have more recently released some more structurally-sound fine-weave mesh corsets, as shown above in the Artemis.

orchard_mesh
Orchard Corset’s CS-411 mesh in tan ($74) and CS-201 mesh in black ($65)

Orchard Corset offers the least expensive OTR mesh corsets today, and in the widest range of corsets (CS-201 from $69, CS-411 from $74, the CS-426 mesh from $76, and the CS-511 mesh from $85) and most of them available in two different colors (tan and black). Orchard has also responded to the demand for more bones in the larger size corsets, so the number of bones increase with the size of the corset. See my reviews for the 411 mesh, the 201 mesh, the CS-426 longline mesh, and the CS-511 overbust mesh corsets. 

Jolie longline corset in black mesh, by Glamorous Corset (from $74).
Jolie longline corset in black mesh, by Glamorous Corset (from $89).

Glamorous Corset also carries several fishnet styles, including the Bella cincher, Emma underbust, Lara curvy underbust, and this Jolie longline corset (from $89), in black (shown here) and also white mesh. See my review for the Jolie corset here. Use my coupon code LUCY15 to save 15% off your order!

Isabella Corsetry Petite Josephine Nudes Mesh underbust corset, $180 USD

 

MCC5 Brocade Sport Mesh Underbust Corset, $89 USD

 

Restyle Gothic CU2 Black Mesh Hourglass Underbust, €42 or about $50 USD.

 

Secrets in Lace Colored Mesh Underbust Corset, $69 USD

 

Corset Deal Floral Printed Mesh Underbust Corset, $79 USD

Open Net and Sports Mesh Corsets

Morgana Designs sports mesh (sports jersey) underbust corset, 9350 Argentine Peso (about $98 USD).

Morgana Designs of Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the first in a long list of South American brands that know that having a cool, breathable mesh corset in the summertime (or in warmer clients) is absolutely paramount. This simple-yet effective sports jersey mesh corset has cotton trim and boning channels, a zipper front closure, and an external waist tape for a comfy interior.

do_balakobako
Do Balakobako pink mesh and floral print underbust

Do Balakobako Corsets from Brazil/Florida makes some of the most beautiful colored mesh pieces starting from only $90 USD, and her prolific work is very quickly gaining admirers on Facebook! See her photo album of summer corsets here.

Madame Sher nude mesh underbust, $229 USD

Brazil-based Madame Sher has a collection of simple and beautiful mesh corsets in her Tight Comfort section, ranging from $130 – $300 for a custom-fit design. They’re made with cotton net and cotton twill in various neutral shades. See my review of the Madame Sher black mesh cincher here.

Sophisticated Tulle Corsets:

Royal Black Couture & Corsetry Sheer Black Mesh Overbust Corset

Barbara of Royal Black (Austria) has created the penultimate sheer overbust – a supportive cupped basque with molded bra cups, a breathable and incredibly soft tulle corset base, and decorative hand-laid wrought-iron inspired embellishment, including a horizontal motif to act as a waist tape instead of a distracting twill band at the waistline. You can learn how this corset was made step-by-step on Barbara’s Patreon.

V-Couture Nyx tulle and lace overbust

V-couture makes a single-layer tulle overbust called “Nyx”, heavily decorated with beautiful corded lace, beads and sequins. Although it has no waist tape, V-couture ensures that Nyx is capable of giving up to 4 inches reduction.

Entre-Nous embroidered tulle overbust; Textile design by Jakob Schlaepfer

Entre-Nous by Beata Sievi (Now  Beata Sievi Corset Artist) introduced embroidered tulle corsets in early 2014, such as this astonishingly gorgeous white piece with delicate pastel floral embroidery. 

Morgaine La Chatte (Germany) Tulle Overbust Corset

Cotton Bobbinet Corsets:

Karolina Laskowska (UK/ Norway) Bobbinet Mesh Overbust Corset. Photo: Sparklewren. Model: Yazzmin Newell. MUA: Sammm Agnew

This plunge overbust, part of Karolina’s Un|Seelie collection, is an opulent combination of brightly colored jacquard, soft cotton bobbinet, lace appliqué and real 24k gold leaf. Karolina holds several fashion degrees in lingerie design and is comfortable working very precisely with sheer, fiddly delicate fabrics, whether you’re looking to commission a corset or an undergarment ensemble. When Karolina is not designing heartbreakingly beautiful corsets, you can find her running The Underpinnings Museum, on Patreon, or writing for The Lingerie Addict.

Lyris Design Bobbinet Mesh Overbust Corset. Model/Photo/MUA: Threnody in Velvet

Lyris Design (Australia) is run by Carly Van Groeningen, corsetiere and costume designer extraordinaire. With one and a half decades of experience under her corset, her larger creative projects are a step above most others. You can see how Carly creates a different bobbinet corset step-by-step in her project blog for her Mirabel creation here.

Cotton Bobbinet overbust by Morua Designs (from $700). Photo: Sparklewren. Model: Victoria Dagger

Morúa Designs of Chicago (and London) was the first known corsetiere to experiment with breathable, lightweight cotton bobbinet for corsetry. It is slightly stretchy which allows it to flow beautifully over curves for a smooth finish under clothing. The waist tape, binding, and other optional structured areas will prevent stretch and add extra support where you desire.

Unartig Boutique (Germany) bobbinet underbust with black lace.

Lotte of Unartig Boutique (Germany) offers this unique juxtaposition of soft, diaphanous cotton bobbinet with darker contrast boning channels and heavy black guipure lace embellishment for a stunning final effect. In this style especially, one can see how the bobbinet immediately shapes to the wearer, giving a rounded rib and comfortable rounded hip.

Ampersand Creations. Model: The Bald Fashionable Foodie. Photo: Broken Glass Photography

Ampersand Creations is a partnership made up of Erin and Tim from Colorado, USA. They don’t exclusively make corsets, but are heavily in the Cosplay scene and they are constantly experimenting with different art media, from fabric and textiles, to woodworking, 3D printed plastics, and so much more. The above sheer corset dress was a submission to Foundations Revealed corset contest, and was said to be inspired by the signature architecture style of Santiago Calatrava.

Lady Ardzesz Corsets Mesh Underbust Corset

This exquisite underbust from Lady Ardzesz Corsets (Poland) is layers upon layers – first a base of black bobbinet over a contrasting white waist tape, overlaid with lace along the bottom half and embellished with pearls. Soft blush boning channels and with black flossing on the upper edges and black hardware and contrast stitching make for a breathtaking final piece.

Peach summer bobbinet demibust by La Belle Fairy Corsets in Vancouver, BC Canada

La Belle Fairy from British Columbia, Canada makes beautiful corsetry from vintage patterns, with modern fabrics. This Victorian demibust corset is made with a delicate looking peach bobbinet (and bobbinet covered boning channels) but is strong enough to cinch you in.

Crimson Lily Atelier (Poland) Bobbinet Underbust Corset

 

Chesebro Corsetry Bobbinet Mesh Overbust Corset

Chesebro Corsetry is an underrated historical reproduction business, run by one person (Alexander Chesebro) out of Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Their finishing right down to every thread of flossing is immaculate in nature, and this cotton bobbinet / silk satin 1890s piece (a commission for a client who works in a Victorian museum) is no exception.

Unisex Peanuts (Japan) Bobbinet Mesh Embellished Underbust Corset

 

“Champagne” bobbinet underbust by Crimson Rose Corsetry (from $360). Photo: WeNeal’s Photography

This corset is bubbly, fun and light, and so is aptly named “champagne” after a custom cosplay created by Crimson Rose Corsetry. It features brocade front and back panels, with breezy bobbinet on the sides. The (sparkly!) waist tape holds firm to give you a dramatic cinch in the waist while keeping your ribs and hips comfortable.

Bobbinet overbust wedding corset with satin cups and gold lace, by Sew Curvy Couture

Julia Bremble of Sew Curvy Couture (Now JB Corsets) not only creates corsets from bobbinet (like this wedding corset sample with satin cups and lace embellishment), but also sells bobbinet in her corset supply store, in case you’d like to try making a corset from bobbinet on your own!

Bobbinet bridal corset by Ivory Rose Design - as part of a Foundations Revealed tutorial on how to work with bobbinet
Bobbinet bridal corset by Ivory Rose Designs – as part of a Foundations Revealed tutorial on how to work with bobbinet

Ivy Rose Designs in Alberta, Canada, created this lovely “something blue” sheer bridal corset and covered it in corded lace with pearls for a bridal client. She also documented the process for Foundations Revealed to create a tutorial on exactly how to work with bobbinet for corsets, and what to expect.

Crimson Rose Corsetry and Couture Bobbinet Bridal Overbust Corset

Kitty of Crimson Rose Corsetry created this double-layer bobbinet overbust after an intense training with the one and only Lowana of Vanyanis – the final effect is a semi-transparent (but still very light) and incredibly smooth, virtually wrinkle-free overbust. The cotton bobbinet was lightly dyed with an opalescent effect, with crystals and lace embellishment, for a truly one-of-a-kind corset to be used as a base for a bridal ensemble.

Cotton (Lace, Aida Cloth, or Net) Corsets

Lace Embrace Atelier (BC, Canada) “Cupcake” Corset.. Client/Model: Tara

Lace Embrace Atelier (BC, Canada) has created a summer version of their Edwardian “Alyce” underbust pattern, aptly named the “Cupcake Corset”. While this isn’t the same kind of gossamer lace as the others in this section, it is indeed still lace – a more cottagecore cotton eyelet lace with sweet dainty daisies, making for a surprisingly strong, breathable single-layer corset.

Anna Mestwinowa (Poland) Cotton Bobbinet Mesh Overbust Corset

 

Period Corsets (Washington, USA) 18th century closed-front tabbed stays, made from quilted cotton net.

 

Prior Attire Cotton Tulle Overbust Corset

Izabela is the face and corsetiere of Prior Attire, an immensely popular historical reproduction brand in the UK. Here Isabela models a Victorian summer corset made entirely from three different types of cotton: open cotton canvas, cotton tulle, and cotton cambric for the boning channels and hardware panels. Izabela wears her corsets hard (including performing sports and horseback riding in her corsets) and definitely put this one to the test.

Nemuro Corsets Edwardian Ventilated Overbust with Olive Silk and Cream Lace on an Aida Cloth Base.

Nemuro Corsets (Moscow, Russia) has made a name for herself by offering a wide range of both historical reproduction corsets (like this Edwardian ventilated overbust), and modern corsets, including sheer corsetry, at fair prices. She’s incredibly active on Instagram, and has an Etsy shop here.

Dainty Lace Corsets:

Wyte Phantom black lace sheer underbust. Model: October DiVine. Photo: My Boudoir
Wyte Phantom black lace sheer underbust. Model: October DiVine. Photo: My Boudoir

What happens when you forgo the lace appliqué and just use the uncut lace itself as the panels in a corset? You get a breathtaking sheer effect, as seen in the piece above made by Wyte Phantom. Jennifer is constantly experimenting with different fabrics and styles, and has a wide range of corset styles and colors in her Etsy shop.

Totally Waisted sheer waist cincher with Chantilly lace overlay, starts at $199
Bone & Busk Couture sheer waist cincher with Chantilly lace overlay, starts at $199

Bone & Busk Couture by Katharina Mior also featured some limited edition sheer cinchers this year, priced to sell. The strong mesh panels with full Chantilly lace overlay combine with super-strong spot broche to make an enchanting statement piece that can be worn over any outfit, or next to the skin.

Vanyanis “Nadja” Lace Mesh Underbust Corset

Vanyanis (Australia/ New Zealand) added her fourth style to her ready-to-wear collection – after the Ruby pointed underbust, Lillian mid-hip underbust, and Andrea cincher, came “Nadja”, a beautifully lace-covered sheer corset made from strong corsetry mesh, and embellished with Swarovski crystals for a strong-yet-airy finish.

Valkyrie Bridal Mesh with Lace overlay Pointed Overbust. Model: Chloe Marie Kerley. Photo: Rhiannon Laite.

Valkyrie Corsets (UK) is one corsetiere who seemingly does it all, and has been featured extensively in these resource galleries. Here Geraldine has created a grogeous sheer, pointed bridal overbust overlaid with delicate lace.

Nocturnal Garden Atelier Sheer White Gothic Overbust Corset (Model: @alice.balossi)

Nocturnal Garden Atelier (Milan, Italy) offers quite a lot of sheer, lace embellished corsets in their shop! In fact, as a brand with such a gothic flair, this white plunge overbust is rather a divergence from their typical aesthetic, but it was too lovely to pass up. See their Etsy shop for a variety of mesh cinchers, corset belts, collars, gauntlets, headdresses, capes, and more.

Starkers Corsetry White Sheer Mesh Corset with Floral Lace and Silk

Dianna DiNoble of Starkers Corsetry (Toronto, Canada) has been in the corset biz for a long, long time, and has done it all. I had an immensely difficult time choosing just one sheer corset to feature here, but finally opted for this flawless yet simple piece with sweet 3D floral lace and single-boning channels with the smallest seam allowance I’ve ever seen.

Fine Woven (Sheer) Mesh Corsets:

PureOne Corset Works (Japan) Sheer Mesh Underbust Corset, 31680 JPY (about $285 USD)

PureOne Corset Works (PCW), run by Yoneyama Junichi (a previous first-prize winner of Foundations Revealed corsetry contest) is one of just three corset brands that hail from Japan. Shown here is a simple white sheer summer corset, but PCW can make sheer corsets longer or shorter, with standard lacing or fan lacing, and other customizations and considerations.

Ferrer Corsets summer mesh tightlacing underbust, starts at R$890, or $175 USD

Ferrer Corsets is also a Brazilian corset maker – and it seems that tropical Brazil is taking the summer corset industry by storm as they understand the need to feel cool while training in any climate! Ferrer offers a variety of mesh and net corsets, including the corset above which costs only R$790 (converts to $245 USD).

Emerald Queen Art Sheer Mesh Underbust Corset, Model, MUA: @daedra_model Photo: @k.mikolajczak.photography headpiece: @verdessa_fairy

Urszula (the Emerald Queen and corsetiere behind Emerald Queen Art) is best known for her incredibly light and affordable ribbon cinchers, but she also has experience with sheer corsets as shown here with a fine-mesh underbust with emerald contrast trim and lace.

Sin and Satin Sheer Mesh Corset

Jasmine of Sin & Satin LLC (NYC) has looked extensively for a wider range of skintone shades for both her sheer and satin corsets — here you see one of her butterscotch-colored custom underbust corsets for a client.

Woman’s Armor Workshop Sheer Mesh Underbust Corset

Woman’s Armor Workshop is a one-woman business run by Alexandra, based in Russia. No stranger to mesh corsets, here is a sweet baby-pink underbust with pearly accents. Alexandra shares fun pics and videos on her Instagram, and in addition to commissioning corsets, you can also support her projects and learn her techniques by supporting her Patreon.

Waisted Creations Sheer Mesh Overbust Corset.  Model/Photo: Threnody in Velvet

Waisted Creations (Norway) created this impressively plunge overbust with a beautiful color theme of black sheer panels, deep forest green silk, and silver floral motifs and hardware, for an end result that reminds me of melting frost and the first peep of snowdrop flowers on the forest undergrowth.

The Bad Button Blue Sheer with Rainbow Shimmer Contrast Corset. Model: Jessi @dualclassdruid. Mua: @flairmakeupartistry.
Photo: @lacyclaggphotos

Alisha (aka Madame Button) of The Bad Button Corsets (Kentucky, USA) is able to source strong corsetry mesh in almost any color you can think of (this one is BLUE!), and loves to combine the sheer panels with fun contrasting boning channels and trim. Check out the full range here! If your aesthetic is unapologetically bold and bright, look no further.

Kirsteen Wythe Sheer White Mesh Overbust Corset Bodysuit with Sparkle Overlay
Kirsteen Wythe (UK) black corsetry mesh overbust with ribbon “latticework” and lace trim, $254 USD. Model – Ruby True. Photo – Catherine Day. Ears- Mystic Magic.

Kirsteen Wythe (formerly Boom Boom Baby Boutique) shows two very different “moods” created with sheer corsetry; first with an ethereal white sheer overbust overlaid with sparkle organza, and second with a bold black overbust with ribbon lattice (can be made in a contrasting color) and black lace trim.

Retrofolie (Quebec, Canada) Sheer Mesh Underbust Corset

Julianne of Retrofolie (Quebec, Canada) may be better known for her pattern matched corsets, but she can also combine these classical art pieces with sheer panels and lace for clients who live in warmer clients, or simply prefer something more lightweight in the summer months. Julianne is on maternity leave as of 2021 but will be taking commissions again in early 2022!

The Secret Boutique (Colorado, USA) Sheer Mesh Overbust Corset

 

Skeletons in the Closet (Netherlands) Sheer Cincher

Sanni, the corsetiere behind Skeletons in the Closet Corsetry (Netherlands), pairs her sheer underbust corset (with decorative Jacquard ribbon boning channels and embellishment) with a lightweight white cotton summer dress.

Sheer corset girdle by Snowblack Corsets, approximately $200 USD
Sheer corset girdle by Snowblack Corsets, starts at $200

SnowBlack Corsets offers this lovely corset/girdle, made with a single layer of nylon mesh, and finished in black raw silk shell and coutil lining. While this corset has a waist tape and sturdy two part grommets, SnowBlack says that it is meant to serve as more of a slimming, supportive girdle and doesn’t recommend a reduction of more than 4″ in this. However, it would be the perfect tool to smooth your figure under a retro dress! This corset also features four garter clips, and two additional hidden garter tabs for additional hold of stockings if desired.

 

Wild Rose Atelier “Amora” Sheer Corset

Rebecca Balfour of Wild Rose Atelier (Ottawa, Canada) made this incredibly romantic “Amora” corset featuring a tulip hip contour, a base of fine-weave synthetic corsetry mesh, ivory satin boning channels, a narrow crocheted lace trim, and the piece de resistance: a sweetheart wooden busk with custom pyrography by the corsetiere, lovingly hand-sewn between the layers of sheer mesh, on display for all the world to see.

Orchid Corsetry Sheer Seirian Waspie. Model: Comics Girls Need Bras

Orchid Corsetry (UK) is a high end lingerie and corsetry brand; the owner Bethan offers a number of sheer designs that fit well with the intimatewear aesthetic, including the Eirlys, a cincher made from silk bobbinet; the Perle and underbusts, made from sunthetic corsetry mesh with lace triml and (above) the Seirian, which is a sheer waspie with corded hip panels. I have a Seirian of my own, and hope to review it soon!

Dark Garden Risqué Sweetheart overbust, starts at $1045. Photo: Joel Aron

The Dark Garden Risqué corset is aptly named. Made from nylon mesh and silk, the Risqué is available as both a cincher and as a sweetheart overbust (above). The website provides fantastic ideas for wear, mentioning that sheer corsetry serves as a great foundation under formal gowns, or can be worn to show off tattoos.

Twilight Siren Corsetry Sheer Underbust Corsets

Twilight Siren Corsetry (UK) can be considered a specialist in sheer corsets – arguably most of the corsets they sell are made from fine-woven corsetry mesh, which they can customize with any other contrasting fabric and color, as well as customize the color of hardware and whether you prefer closed front, busk, or zip.

Pop Antique Flirt overbust, starts at $399

Marianne is a well-known corsetiere for Dark Garden, but she also has her own corsetry line within Dark Garden’s brand and is a respected designer in her own right: Pop Antique‘s corsets are fun and contemporary, and the Flirt overbust is as coquettish as it gets with its peekaboo panels and little panniers (or “hip fins” as I like to call them).

L’Atelier de LaFleur Bespoke Corsetry Sheer Overbust Corset (Modeled by Mina herself)

Mina LaFleur of L’Atelier de LaFleur (Toronto, Canada) proves that there is elegance in simplicity with this smooth sheer overbust that combines modern bust coverage, projection and support in the front, with an Edwardian sweetheart-contoured back. The perfect alignment of grommets in the back shows Mina’s exacting standard of quality and dedication to proper fit.

Mystras Corsetry & Clothier Sheer Mesh Overbust Corset. Photo: @paskeyboudoir. MUA: @ladonnastein

This overbust corset by Mystras Corsetry (Texas, USA) is one of the most unique designs I’ve seen – a straight-cut, ruched bustline makes for relatively full and modest coverage, juxtaposed by the exhibitionist peekaboo sheer panels below. The satin and floral embellishments are a gorgeous mauve hue that compliments the model’s complexion beautifully.

Hebi Corsetry (Genoa, Italy) Sheer Mesh Overbust Corset. Model: Gioelle Fazzeri. Photo: Digital Dreams Studio.

 

Bibian Blue Couture (Barcelona, Spain) Sheer Mesh Overbust. Model: @morriganhel. Photo: Phantom Orchid

 

Xandriana (UK) Sheer Mesh Overbust Corset. Photographer: Alexandra Leigh. Models: LulubellaLucy. MUA: Bobbi Grae. Headdresses: Crown and Glory.

Horsehair corsets:

Bizarre Design sheer halter overbust and matching skirt

Bizarre Design proves that horsehair can shape the torso with extreme efficacy given the correct engineering. This sheer overbust with halter straps is capable of giving extreme reductions even without a waist tape.

Anachronism In Action sheer lattice pointed overbust
Anachronism In Action sheer lattice pointed overbust. Photo: Francoise Guillen.

Anachronism in Action‘s sheer overbust features horsehair that had been dyed a diaphanous ice-blue hue. The beautiful lattice corset also features hundreds of Swarovski crystals over the bust.

Powermesh Corsets:

Powermesh and satin corset-girdle by Sian Hoffman
Powermesh and satin corset-girdle by Sian Hoffman (starts from $360)

Sian Hoffman (UK) powermesh corset-girdles are arguably one of the most recognizable designs of its kind, which combine the dramatic hourglass shape of corsets with the sleekness and mobility offered by powermesh shapewear. Her corsets offer a busk in the front or in the back (a back busk will allow the corset to be smooth in the front), with garters to keep the bottom of the girdle smooth and taut.

Morgana Femme Couture cupped overbust corset-girdle with brocade and powermesh (from $510)
Morgana Femme Couture cupped overbust corset-girdle with brocade and powermesh (from $510)

Morgana Femme Couture (UK) makes both ready-to-wear and made-to-measure corsets and corset-girdles. This one is particularly stunning as it’s also a cupped overbust (although it also comes in an underbust version). The rigid brocade fabric ends right below the natural waistline, while smoothing and supporting the hips with black powermesh for the best of both worlds.

Pop Antique Swimming Corset. Model: Victoria Dagger. Photo: Alyx Ryan

in 2017, Marianne Faulkner of Pop Antique (California, USA) created this Swimming Corset to lightly cinch the waist and support her back. This corset features a sweetheart front and back (shown; likely a modified Gibson Girl pattern), made from two layers of heavy-duty powermesh, a front zip, and synthetic whalebone instead of steel. In her blog she mentioned that she opted not to add a waist tape so as to avoid any “belted pillow” silhouette and to not hinder her movement in the water. She says that the waistline can expect to expand by about 2 inches when worn, due to the nature of the mesh. Read her original post here, and her FAQ post!

Crimson Rose Corsetry Powermesh Underbust Corset, $347 USD

Kitty Krell of Crimson Rose Corsetry (Colorado, USA) released the Power Corset earlier in 2021, having experimented with supportive powermesh corsets for years on herself for 24/7 rib and back support and stabilization for her own EDS-H. The Power Corset features a double-layer of powermesh, synthetic baleen, a molded plastic locking zipper, and stainless steel grommets for a completely washable, waterproof corset. While this corset is cut for serious curves, it also has a slightly elastic waist tape (and very elastic binding) so it can fit a variety of rib and hip springs.

Wild Rose Atelier “Sirena” Sheer White Powermesh Underbust Corset

Rebecca Balfour of Wild Rose Atelier (Ottawa, Canada) created the Sirena bathing corset, quoting her inspiration by both Marianne and Kitty. Like the other waterproof corsets, this has a base of powermesh and is boned with synthetic baleen, and features a front zip instead of a metal busk. However because these corsets are completely custom and not ready-to-wear, they can be made in a variety of colors and can also be customized in silhouette, length etc. You can see one of Rebecca’s modified bathing corsets in this Youtube video from one of her clients, who uses a longline version of corset to prevent EDS-related dislocations and injuries in the bath, especially through the hips.

More of an honorable mention than anything else, here is a (farrrrr) throwback to 2012 when I experimented with a single layer of powermesh, enforced by black satin coutil front and back panels, and a diamond waistband. It looks a bit rough around the edges; at the time I opted to serge the top and bottom edges to avoid fixed springs, as well as reduce bulk when worn under clothing.

Super Strong (Upholstery-weight mesh) Training Corsets

Delicate Facade Corsetry heavy-duty summer mesh corset, starts at $510

Delicate Facade Corsetry has made this summer corset made with “heavy duty, industrial grade, tightlacing quality mesh”, for a special client who requires a surgery support corset 24/7 after a horrendous accident. DF Corsetry has prettied up this breezy piece with highly decorative latticework. You can learn more about Delicate Facade, and read more about Sasha’s story here.

 

Contour Corsets blue summer mesh corset, starts at $745

(Honorable Mention) Contour Corsets used to make arguably the strongest modern mesh corsets in the world. Fran incorporates space-age materials into her corsets, capable of withstanding 23/7 use and cinching the waistline by over 25%. Fran likens her mesh corsets to a glider – strong, yet light. The synthetic mesh and the construction of the corset are both so strong that the addition of a waist tape would be superfluous. My review of the summer Contour Corset can be found here. As Fran has retired from the corset business, this listing is a transition between the corsets above, and the other honorable mentions below.

~Honorable Mentions~

Sparklewren sheer bridal overbust with cups
Sparklewren sheer bridal overbust with cups

Sparklewren also offered some sheer corsetry, from cinchers to full cupped overbust corsets. Natural sheer mesh sees layers upon layers of French lace appliqué in true Sparklewren fashion to create an ethereal one-of-a-kind design. Sparklewren no longer takes custom commissions, but does sporadically create small corset collections that are primarily sold through her Instagram.

Atelier Sylphe polyester horsehair pointed overbust

Atelier Sylphe has created a beautiful sheer pointed overbust from poly horsehair and twill, also giving an impressive silhouette without a waist tape. While Atelier Sylphe is still active as a corsetiere, she only makes samples and no longer takes custom commissions.

Fairy GothMother also offered a standard-sized mesh cincher for £215, in tulle and black lace. They recommend this for light wear (2-4 inches reduction). If you prefer a more plain mesh, they had mesh cinchers in black and (relatively rare) all-red cincher for only £165. You can still catch one or two more mesh cinchers in their outlet on clearance here!

Contessa Gothique Design Semi-Mesh underbust, starts at $280

Contessa Gothique Design makes semi-mesh corsets with alternating panels of poly netting and cotton coutil – the one shown above is the one I own. The net is soft like tulle, but the double-layer makes for a strong piece. Embellished with lace appliqué and Swarovski crystals, this pretty piece holds up very well to tightlacing and accentuates any summer outfit while still keeping me cool – but if you prefer, the corset can be made more plain as well. See my review of this Contessa Gothique corset here.

Discontinued What Katie Did sheer Cabaret two-tone Laurie overbust, was £209

What Katie Did previously offered a few mesh styles in the Demi-Couture section of their website. The Cabaret Sophia, Cabaret Laurie and Cabaret Morticia corsets featured panels of a double layer of soft organza in either soft peach or sultry black, and maintain as curvy a silhouette as ever. See my review of the Cabaret two-tone Laurie here.

JL Corsets "Kingfisher" mesh corset, using 3 colours of sport mesh
JL Corsets (Wales) “Kingfisher” mesh corset, using 3 colours of sport mesh

JL Corsets offered some fun-yet-tough sports mesh corset in any combination of colors – you can order a corset in just one shade, but why not have ALL the colors?!

The Heart and the Half Moon Bobbinet Mesh Corset

The Heart and the Half Moon is a collaboration between April of Tighter Corsets, and Cat of Madame LeMieux Corsetry (both in Washington state, USA). Together they made gorgeous lightweight corsets made from ultra-breathable bobbinet and super-strong cotton-backed satin. This project has been on hiatus due to studies, but we love their creations all the same.

Angela Stringer Corsetry floral sheer overbust. Model: Victoria Dagger

Angela Stringer Corsetry has a continual theme on floral prints. In the above corset, she combines the sophistication of sheer panels with floral femininity to create a unique piece that’s both playful and smoldering. This is available in both overbust and underbust versions.

Velda Lauder mesh and satin underbust corset

I wouldn’t feel right without mentioning the late Velda Lauder’s sheer underbust, as she designed this years ago before any of the other corsetieres in this section had discovered corset-suitable sheer fabric. Ms Lauder forged a path all her own, and will be fondly remembered for her beautiful designs.

*Please note that I have not personally tried every corset brand in this list, nor do I necessarily endorse every company in these guided galleries. This is for informational purposes only.

17 thoughts on “Mesh, Net and Sheer (Summer) Corsets

  1. I would like a Corset , it must be Feminine,because I love to feel that way.A Corset is after all,a way we can train our bodies and trim are waist , while making sure that the cruves appear to suit ehat we want our bodies too be;But most importantly it must be strong and constructed of Satin and Silk. Tbe Corset has to have at least 26 steel stays, and 4 flat steel stay along the back susporting the laces, with a Modesty panel, it is an Overbust Corset with at least 6 suspender for attaching to my Silk Stockings, and 2 Straps fastened to the Breast of the bodice, they must be adjustable.Do your Corsets have details like this?…Ms. Rita Lynne Lerch

    1. Hello Rita, the type of mesh overbust you’re describing will probably have to be commissioned as a custom piece. I recommend checking out the corsetiere map to find a maker nearby who would be able to give you a personal fitting for best results.

  2. Hi there – Hope you’re well. I am having a wedding gown made and the top of the dress is actually more
    of a sheer/nude corsette. So I am looking for a nude corsette that I can have perfectly fitted to my body. I want something a bit see-through …And then the dressmaker I am using will add flowers and netting – I have photos to show you if I can send those over too. Or you can google the “colette dress by Liz Martinez” for a sneak peek as well. Again, i wont have a top of the dress…the corsette will actually be the top of the dress- and then I have the 3-D flowers which they will sew on accordingly. So the corset should be the color of my skin….

    I have a smaller chest (34 B-ish) so I want something that will be a little more uplifting and flattering without being overdone as far as cleavage. And most importantly, I want it to be comfortable.

    Thanks in advance for the help

    Erica

    1. Hi Erica, it’s very likely that you’ll need a custom corset, and for best results, one that lives or works close to you that can give you a few in-person fittings. It won’t come cheap, but if you want the best for your wedding gown, it would be worth it. Have you looked at the corsetiere map to see if any makers are within driving distance?

  3. There is also the Restyle.pl mesh corset which comes in at $54.18 USD which makes it the actual cheapest mesh OTR corset by $15! Plus it’s far better constructed and far curvier than Orchard Corset.

    https://restyle.pl/product-eng-1532–CU2-Black-Mesh-Underbust-gothic-corset-hourglass-shape-sturdy.html

    I’ve tried it and can vouch for its quality so it’s definitely worth inclusion on this list.

  4. Hi, I hope this message will find you happy and healthy. What would you recommend as overbust mesh corset for someone with a full hourglass figure (18) with a quite large 38 DDD (meaning the breast goes far under my arm) and who just want to smooth the form and mostly have support without bras straps showing under my dresses?

    Thank you and have a nice day,

    Ava

    1. Hi Ava, the custom corsets on this page would be able to create a corset that fits your body measurements precisely. :) There is only one off-the-rack brand that offers mesh overbust corsets at this time, and that’s Orchard Corset. I’m not sure how street sizes compare to corset sizes, you would have to take your measurements in inches – but they carry the corset up to 40″ closed waist (would probably fit up to 50 inches natural waist).

  5. Where would you suggest for a custom mesh or summer corset?

    I live in Florida and have been saving up but I realized recently contour corsets won’t sell to me because I’m 19.

    Thank you

    1. Hi Renee, I have a custom mesh corset from Madame Sher (Brazil), and a semi-mesh from Contessa Gothique Design (Croatia) and they’re both great. :)

  6. Hi Lucy, how do these hold up to daily wear??? Contour would be great but is there any others that would work for waist training???

    1. Hi Tonia, obviously Contour is the most suited to daily wear. The Contessa Gothique one is holding up quite strong for me still, while the Madame Sher, True Corset and Orchard Corset mesh options are much softer. Others have mentioned that the holes in the mesh can widen or tear if too much stress is put on it. I would reserve those cheaper mesh corsets for daily use only in the hottest months, and move to a cotton trainer as soon as the weather becomes cool again.

  7. Thank you for discovering mesh corsets! They are incredibly comfortable, spectacular, and match colours and textures when worn over clothes in such an interesting way. After browsing your galleries, I got mine – a fantastic, super-curvy 17″ – from Snowblack (not the girdle featured here, but the 2-layer net mid-hip underbust like the one modelled by Rockagirl) and I am happy with it.
    I hope to get the sparkly Contessa Gothique and floral Angela Stringer corsets someday, too!

  8. Dear Lucy, thank you for the great revue of mash corsets. Du you know were to get the mash fabric like in the brazilian corsets (with big net holes) or the sport mash. I didn’ find anything like this by the well known corsett material supply. I have nice picture of a tulle embroidery corset- haw can I send you this picture? Warm greetings Beata.

    1. Hi Beata, I’m glad you liked the gallery! Unfortunately I’m not sure where to source the Brazilian style mesh, but perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to message the makers directly (like Madame Sher or Ferrer Corsets) to see if they are willing to share their suppliers.

  9. Thank you sososososo much for this list! I live in Arizona and I have to go about half the year without a corset because it is so uncomfortable and this list helps so much.

    1. I’m so glad it helped you, Taylor! Hopefully many breezy corseted days are in your future. :)

      1. Hi Lucy, what do you think about the mesh corset from true corset?
        Is it good for tightlacing?

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