Why you're never too old for a corset: As Helen Mirren, 81, shows off her slender frame in the trendy bodice, the midlife celebs you should be inspired by... and the looks to avoid

For many women over fifty, wearing a corset might seem out of reach. Like six inch heels and '80s leg warmers, it's likely an item of clothing that has been relegated to the furthest depths of the wardrobe.

But it might just be time to revisit it. After all, just a few days ago Helen Mirren, 81, stunned in a black corset and tutu for A Talent for Murder premiere in New York. 

Award-winning stylist Lisa Talbot told the Daily Mail: 'Helen's outfit is a great example of how to wear a corset without it feeling too predictable or overly sexy.

'What I particularly like is the contrast between the structured waist, the volume of the tulle skirt and the simplicity of the long-sleeved top. The top softens the corset, while the dramatic skirt gives it a real sense of occasion.'

But while the corset is becoming an increasingly popular choice, it can often look out of place and awkward if not styled correctly. Thankfully, Lisa has revealed how to wear a corset in midlife.

Lisa said: 'Women in their forties, fifties and beyond shouldn't feel they have to rule out a trend because of their age. 

'A corset can be incredibly elegant and sophisticated. It doesn't have to be a very revealing top or an exaggerated hourglass silhouette. 

'Many women find that their bodies, proportions and preferences change as they get older, but that doesn't mean they need to dress more conservatively or stop experimenting. It simply means understanding what works for them now.' 

Consider proportions

When wearing a corset, it's important to consider an outfit's proportions. Given the tighter fit on top, it's worth considering a baggier option for the bottoms.

According to Lisa: 'If you're wearing something fitted and structured on top, try pairing it with wide-leg trousers, straight-led jeans or a fluid skirt.'

One older celeb whose outfit did just that was Cher's 2026 Met Gala look. The monochromatic black outfit featured a structured corset top and long, flowy skirt. By considering proportions, her outfit looked well-balanced and flattering.

Ensure correct fit 

It might seem obvious, but one of the biggest mistakes people make when wearing a corset is choosing one that is too tight. 

Instead, it's best to opt for one that is comfortable and that fits rather than squeezing into something several sizes too small.

When choosing how a corset should fit, Lisa advised: 'Think about what you want the corset to do for your outfit, rather than focusing purely on what it does to your figure.'

She said: 'The biggest mistake is choosing a corset that is too tight because you think it needs to pull you in to look good.

'It should sit comfortably, allow you to breathe and move, and feel secure without digging in. The right fit will always look better than forcing yourself into something that doesn't work for you.'

Lizzie Cundy's corset in her red carpet look last year is an example of an outfit that seemingly prioritises figure over fit and comfort. 

Make the trend work for you

For women over forty, Lisa recommends choosing a softer, corset-inspired top to make the trend work for you. 

She said: 'It's easy to get caught up in a trend and feel you have to wear it in a particular way. 

'But the best outfits are the ones that feel authentic to you. If a traditional boned corset feels too restrictive, try a softer, corset-inspired top or a waist-defining piece that gives you the look without the structure.'

Kim Kardashian wore a softer corset-inspired dress to the F1 Grand Prix in Singapore earlier this month. Her dress's silky fabric and higher neckline does well at making the outfit work for her. 

Let the corset take centre stage 

A common fashion pitfall is introducing too many competing statement pieces and a corset can easily fall into that trap. 

Sometimes, it is better to allow the corset to be the main event and keep other accessories to a minimum. 

Lisa said: 'I'd avoid feeling that you need to add lots of other statement pieces. Let the corset be the focal point and keep the rest of the outfit relatively simple. A great pair of trousers, a lovely shoe and understated jewellery can be all you need.'

Amanda Holden's all-leather corset look that she posted to Instagram earlier this year encapsulates this sentiment exactly.

 By wearing minimal gold jewellery and a pair of black heels, the attention really is all about the corset.