Many people have been asking the question "What is the difference between a corset and a bustier?". There are a few very distinct differences between the two.

The easiest (and most amusing) definition that I have ever heard is as follows: if you can beat someone to death with it, it's a corset. If not, it's a bustier. Corsets have steel boning in them to keep the shape of the corset when laced, whereas bustiers have plastic boning. The plastic is more prone to warping and bending, and can even cause bunching in the most unwanted places (right under the boobs and along the stomach....not cool) which becomes more pronounced the farther away from a size 8 you are.

The biggest difference is that a corset can decrease your waist size by 2-4 inches (at least) while smoothing and shaping your silhouette. With the combination of steel bones and non-stretch foundation fabric, a corset can shape and sculpt your waist (therefore making it smaller in the process) while a bustier, well, can't. Next time you see a bustier (in other words, anything sold at Victoria's Secret or Fredrick's that claims to be a corset) pick it up and tug on the fabric. You'll find that the fabric is incredibly flimsy and often stretchy. You'll also find that the "bones" in the garment can also be tied in a knot (while in the garment). A corset is a good solid garment, always comfy (especially if custom made) and never leaves you a bunching mess.

Pictures coming soon (which means I have to find my bustier). Yes, i own one, it's called cheap club wear! Cheap in many senses!