The corset continues to be a top trend this year, and I always thought it was a little too sexy for me to pull off until I tried this velvet ruched one. By pairing it with longer, more conservative silhouettes, it feels more elegant than clubby and is surprisingly versatile for dressier looks. I absolutely love how it pairs with wider leg trousers or a midi length slip skirt for a dressier dinner or night out. You can see it in motion in my IG Reel and also below with the faux leather pants I’ve featured a few times.
Velvet Corset Top (60% off; 4 colors)
SO cute and just went on super sale today. The neckline and boning structure of this corset really nails that hourglass silhouette, and nips in at the waist without being too restricting. The velvet has stretch to it and is pull-on style with no zipper. It’s thick enough that I can go bra-less in it making it very comfortable for a dressy top, but you can also try any strapless or the Nubra for a push up effect.
Fit wise, this feels TTS. An XS works on me (and I saw a few reviews from very petite customers who got the XS), though I really wish they made this in XXS. I wouldn’t mind a tighter fit on a piece like this so that it won’t budge throughout the night. FYI they restock some sizes each morning – I’ve been stalking the emerald color and ordered it as well when my size popped back.
Velvet Ruched Mini Dress
As seen from the reviewer photos, this one is pretty universally flattering thanks to the draped ruching detail! I got the XS regular before I realized it came in petite (occasionally restocked), and I’m certain the petite would fit better. The XS is a little loose on me throughout and this dress has a good amount of stretch and would look best snugger-fitting. The sleeves are also long on me so I have them folded under.
If you manage to find this in your correct size, I’d highly recommend it for a dressier piece that has modest upper coverage and full arm coverage (harder to find!). While I got the emerald, the chocolatey brown color (same color as my corset top – looks gorgeous on the reviewer photos as a black alternative, and has been a truly underrated color.
Thank you to Express for partnering on this post.
The green dress is timeless, and I love the look (and warmth!) of velvet at this time of year. You look stunning! Happy, healthy holidays to you and your family 🙂
Thank you, Shanti! Happy holidays to you & yours xx
Hi Jean, love your blog, your comments in size always help me know exactly what to buy. While I never shopped at Express previously in my life your blog made me a big fan over the past couple years – I shop there constantly. But, like you mention in this post I noticed about a month ago all of the xxs sizing on tops disappeared. The xs is too big for me too. Have you noticed the disappearance of size xxs too? I know you partner with them in posts and was hoping you could communicate that to them. I feel like this constantly happens to small sizing, stores carry it until they realize it doesn’t sell as well. It’s so frustrating as someone petite to lose your favorite store again and again. In a time where everything is more inclusive it feels like the petite people are getting left out.
Hi Kate, thank you so much for following alone! Yes, I totally feel you. I’ve been noticing that as well and it’s such a bummer! I have definitely asked about it, reiterating how many customers need and rely on that size option, but haven’t gotten a firm reply yet.
Long time reader! I’m your grandmothers age, or older! Love your posts. Smart and informative.
Thank you, Ellen! I appreciate you taking the time to leave a kind note. Happy holidays!
Jean! OMG what’s it like to have such flawless skin? You look stunning, as always my dear.
You are too kind Val! I hope you’re well and sending you all my best for a happy holiday season xx