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Style Guides

How to Style a Corset-Back Shirt for Work, College and Weekends

A corset lace-up back turns a simple pinstripe shirt into something special. Here is how to wear one at work, at college and on weekends.

NYVAZ pinstripe corset back shirts in blush, pastel yellow and lavender

From the front, a corset-back shirt looks like a neat pinstripe shirt. Turn around and there is a lace-up back that pulls the shirt in at the waist. That one detail gives you a fitted shape and a little surprise, which is why these shirts work for so many occasions.

At work

Keep the rest simple so the shirt looks polished rather than party-ready. The Blush Pinstripe Corset Back Shirt with straight black or grey trousers and loafers is smart enough for the office. Tie the laces neatly and tuck the ends in.

At college

Wear the shirt untucked with jeans or wide-leg pants and sneakers. The Pastel Yellow Pinstripe Corset Back Shirt is bright and cheerful, and the corset back shows off well when you carry your bag on one shoulder.

Weekend outings

Pair the Lavender Pinstripe Corset Back Shirt with the Off White Ruched Wrap Skort for brunch, or with the Black Ruched Wrap Skort for a sharper contrast. Add sandals and a mini bag.

Relaxed evenings

For an easy dinner look, half-tuck the shirt into the Black Wide Leg Lounge Pants, roll the sleeves and add small heels.

Tips for wearing a lace-up back

  • Adjust before you go out. Tighten the laces for a fitted look or loosen them for comfort.
  • Hair up shows it off. A bun or ponytail keeps the back detail visible.
  • Skip heavy jackets if you want the back to be seen; try a cardigan over the shoulders instead.

Care

Check the care label first. Untie the laces before washing so they do not tangle, and iron the shirt before re-lacing it.

What is a corset-back shirt?

It is a regular collared shirt with a lace-up panel at the back, like the lacing on a corset. Pulling the laces tighter nips in the waist; loosening them gives a straighter, roomier fit. You get the shape of a fitted shirt without the stiffness of a tailored one.

Choosing a colour

The NYVAZ corset-back range includes blush pink, sky blue, pastel yellow and lavender, all with fine pinstripes. Blush and sky blue are the easiest to wear to work with black, grey or navy trousers. Pastel yellow and lavender feel more playful and look fresh with white, denim or an off-white skort.

What to wear it with

  • Straight or wide-leg trousers for the office.
  • Jeans for college and errands.
  • A skort or mini skirt for brunch and holidays.
  • Lounge pants for relaxed evenings.

Sizing tip

Because the laces adjust the waist, choose your size by the shoulders and bust: the shoulder seams should sit at the edge of your shoulders and the buttons should lie flat. You can then tighten the back for a closer fit.

Browse all shirts at NYVAZ.

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