The corset made an unlikely comeback in 2016 when Prada layered lace-up belts on top of jackets, but even we couldn't predict where corsetry would go next. In 2018, you might be wearing a corset to spin class, as new Parisian label Ernest Leoty has positioned itself as a "couture" house for exercise clothing.
Maison Ernest Leoty was originally opened in the 19th century in Paris and was famous for its corset making. If you are a fashion history geek, you might recognise the name (these original corsets are a collector's piece and are housed at the V&A Museum and the Met Museum in New York). "While most corsets constrained the body, Leoty corsets allowed easy movement," the site explains of the significance of these corsets. "Their smart cut and elasticity gave women room to breathe. They were modern and technical for their time without compromising style."
Designer Marion Rabate was inspired by Ernest Leoty's corsets from the 1800s when she started working on her exercise label, so she decided to name the brand after him. The leggings, bodysuits and tops all aim to mirror the fit and supportive lines of his original corsets but using technical performance fabrics. There are two "gym corsets" in the collection in navy and a deep cherry red, which have the distinctive boning seams across the body and bra cups. Although working out in a corset might sound a little terrifying, these are fitted and simply sculpt your body, rather than constricting your movement, meaning that they won't interfere with your workout like you might expect. Keep scrolling to see and shop the corsets for the gym.
Next up, see our guide to the best leggings for the gym, according to London's chicest personal trainers.
Opening Image: Getty Images
