The Best Steampunk Corsets

Steampunk provides the perfect edgy fusion of romance and technology with the aim of inventing a vision of an alternative steam-driven past. It's Victoriana fused with Sci-Fi, Punk and Goth – a delectable alternative fantasy world. If you want to unleash your inner drama queen and look strong and racy, a corset is a must-have addition to your steampunk wardrobe.

There are of course thousands of corsets on the market, but which ones are best to complete your steampunk ensemble? Here are a few of the best steampunk corsets, ranging in price from the modest to the eye-watering.

By The Sword have been supplying costumes and weaponry for historical re-enactors and collectors for a couple of decades and built up a fine reputation. More recently they have turned their skills to making Steampunk clothing and accessories. Lovers of all things Victorian and Sci-Fi are catered for with capes, bustles, goggles and valises, but By The Sword’s finest hour must surely be their handcrafted leather corset and matching bra.

The Clockwork corset and bra are simply stunning and would surely complete any Steampunk outfit. Heads would certainly turn if you wore this ensemble! The corset, which sits below the bust, is made of hardened leather to provide a powerful waist -cinching experience. The leather is laser etched with an intricate pattern and airbrushed with a clockwork motif. Further detail is provided by brass “clock” pieces and brass studs.

Whilst the corset would look sensational in its own right, when combined with the matching bra, the effect is ramped up ten-fold! The bra is also made from leather and has been crafted to the same high standard.

It's certainly not a cheap outfit, but it is a limited edition. If you have a special occasion and enjoy being the centre of attention - this could be the answer to your prayers!

If your budget can't quite stretch to the Clockwork Corset, here are a few leather corsets that give maximum impact with a more modest price tag. Leather is definitely a material with serious rock chick credentials, so if you are looking for a hard-edged femininity, choose one of these.

Feast your eyes on a delectable assortment of leather corsets. Some are traditional corsets, fully boned and cotton lined whilst others are more simple waist cinchers. All are guaranteed to draw admiring glances!

For steampunk gals who are looking for a softer edge, keep to traditional corsetry fabrics. Velvet, satin and damask, trimmed with embroidery and lace give a feminine, sexy shape. These are classic garments, yet still certain to draw admiring glances.

If you truly want a wasp-waist you are going to need to choose a boned corset. The beautiful Victorian reproduction shown to the right is, to my eyes, the perfect corset. It is feminine, edgy and shape enhancing. Not only can you lace it tight for a tiny waist, but its sweetheart neckline will provide an eye-popping cleavage too. Quite literally breathtaking!

Alternatively, try the Victorian Old West style corset. This one comes in sizes 34-46 inches bust and features plastic stays and hook and eye fastening up the front. Very desirable!

There is a strong military feel to a great many steampunk outfits, and it can be a very good look. The military theme uses braiding, brass buttons and suspenders to add interest and detail to an austere look, but of course a corset is always going to add femininity too. Take no prisoners in a military steampunk corset!