Waist Trainer Vs Corset. Which one is better ?

One of the most common questions we get at Squeez Me Skinny is: What’s the difference between a corset and a waist trainer? And which one should I use?

The truth is, both styles offer unique benefits, and the “right” choice often depends on your goals, comfort preferences, and desired look. Here, we’ll break down each style to help you choose the best waist-slimming garment for your needs.

Corsets vs. Waist Trainers: What’s the Difference?

First, here’s a quick overview of each:

• Corset: Designed with tuff steel boning and laced in the back, a corset helps slim the waist dramatically. This style is known for creating an hourglass figure by cinching the waist, often reducing it by 3-6 inches.

• Waist Trainer: Made from stretchy materials like latex lycra and neoprene, a waist trainer is designed to compress the waist using hook-and-eye closures in the front. It’s easier to put on than a corset and typically reduces the waist by 1-3 inches.

Though these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, we’ll refer to “waist trainers” as compression garments and “corsets” as lace-up garments to keep things simple!

Key Differences Between Waist Trainers and Corsets

1. Materials

• Corsets: Often made from cotton, satin, or leather, corsets rely on steel boning and busks for their shape. Laces allow for a custom fit and can provide an instantly dramatic reduction. However a corset can appear bulkier than a waist trainer.  
• Waist Trainers: Typically made of latex, nylon, or spandex, these use firm compression to shape your waist and create a smooth silhouette. Hook-and-eye closures make it easy to adjust for comfort or size down as needed. A waist trainer is a modern day corset that hides better under clothing. 

2. How to Wear Them

• Under Clothes: Waist trainers are generally easier to conceal under clothing since they’re lightweight and lie flat against the body. Corsets may be more challenging to hide due to the bulkiness of the garment.
• As Outerwear: Both can be worn as statement pieces! Many people style corsets over clothing for a vintage or edgy look, while waist trainers—especially in bright colors and fun prints—make great workout gear for flaunting your progress or hiding it away as your little secret weapon.  

3. Best for Workouts or Everyday Wear?

• Waist Trainers: Ideal for workouts, especially with Squeez Me Skinny’s workout trainers that combine flexibility with durability. They’re designed to boost thermal activity, making you sweat more around your core for maximum results. However Squeez Me Skinny's Maximum curves collection is just the style you need for shaping your waist discreetly while out and about. 
• Corsets: Not suited for workouts since they restrict movement and are less flexible, but they’re excellent for creating a stunning hourglass shape for special occasions or daily wear when extra support is desired.

4. Support and Posture

• Corsets: Offer solid support with firm steel boning, encouraging good posture by keeping your back straight. They’re great for those who need additional core support.
• Waist Trainers: Provide moderate to high support, especially around the core, which makes them comfortable for long wear and suitable for daily activities. 

Choosing the Right One for Your Goals

Durability

• Corsets: Steel-boned corsets are extremely durable and last longer, especially if you’re consistently waist training.
• Waist Trainers: Though effective, waist trainers may need replacement over time, especially if worn regularly.

Ease of Use

• Waist Trainers: Quick and easy to put on with hook-and-eye closures.
• Corsets: Require a little more time to lace up, but once you get used to it, the process becomes easier.

So, Which is Best for You?

Ultimately, corsets and waist trainers each have something different to offer. Here’s how to decide:

• Choose a Corset if you’re aiming for a dramatic waist-slimming effect or love the classic, vintage look.
• Choose a Waist Trainer for everyday wear, under clothing, or for workouts to enhance thermal activity and intensify your fitness results.

At Squeez Me Skinny, we love both options and recommend trying both to see what feels best for your style and goals. If you have more questions about choosing the right fit, feel free to reach out to our styling experts!