Zazie Beetz Wears Corsets as Mary in The Harder They Fall
The Harder They Fall's Stagecoach Mary Made Me Fall Even Harder For Corsets
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Netflix Western The Harder They Fall continues to inspire a cowboy wardrobe. Balmain even came out with a collection complete with plenty of suede and fringe, influenced by the Old West. But the corsetry used throughout the film by costume designer Antoinette Messam — specifically on Stagecoach Mary — feels like a modern update and pronouncement of Zazie Beetz's character, who strongly owns her sex appeal and independence.
"I didn't grow up knowing this culture even existed. Even though my background is fashion before film, and I took history, this history was not something that anyone shared with me exactly," Messam said, telling Hypebeast that her Western costumes were also meant to bring about "flair and swagger."
While corsets have become more mainstream thanks to the rise of Regencycore (you're probably seeing them pop up on a lot of your favourite retail sites), the boned, often lace-up silhouette dates back to the 16th century. The corset has taken various forms, from undergarment to overgarment, waist-defining top to romantic dress. But Beetz's Mary Fields wears them effortlessly from day to night.
Image Source: Netflix
Her brown version is cinched with leather ties, worn over a button-down with the same turquoise pendant necklace that also falls elegantly across her chest when she's in the scarlet dress with the sweetheart neckline — the one with clasps down the centre of the bodice and a gathered skirt that takes your breath away in her very first scene at the saloon.
It's hard to pick a favourite look. One is more rugged, complete with baggy suede slacks, a bandana, and top hat, while the other is a dress that is arguably the most memorable of the entire movie. But both have sent me shopping in an attempt to extend the aesthetic to my own closet, and I'm dying to share the pieces I've found with you. Scroll for my favourites.
Kim Shui Silk Taffeta Bustier Top
You can wear the Kim Shui Silk Taffeta Bustier Top ($495) tied up in a high Victorian neck or undone, which is my favourite thing about it.
Paris Georgia Marlo Singlet in Daffy Yellow
The leather binding on the Paris Georgia Marlo Singlet ($355) coordinates with the dipped leather pants, making for one of my favourite outfits of all time.
De La Vali Koko Pink Cotton Corset Top
I love the romantic addition of poufy sleeves and a ruffled hem on this rose-coloured De La Vali Koko Cotton Corset Top ($365).
Poster Grl Wild Cowgirl Ride Denim Corset Top
The Poster Grl Wild Cowgirl Ride Denim Corset Top ($45) even takes Western-inspired buckles and embroidery into account.
Christian Dior F/W 2002 Floral Corset Skirt Set by John Galliano
Just imagine indulging in this vintage Christian Dior F/W 2002 Floral Corset Skirt Set by John Galliano ($895).
Manière De Voir Vegan Leather Corset Top
The price point of this Manière De Voir Vegan Leather Corset Top ($55) is great, and I love how the contouring detail feels regal.
Miaou Campbell Corset
Miaou is a go-to for me when I think corsets. The brand's Campbell Top ($225) comes in nine different colorways that speak to a range of personalities.
Pierre Cardin '80s Corset Ensemble
This Pierre Cardin '80s Corset Ensemble ($1,156) could be straight out of The Harder They Fall, and I love the added texture from the velvet.
Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche 1977 Russian Collection Corset
This Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche 1977 Russian Collection Corset ($995) is quite a rare find. The lace-up detail immediately makes me think of Stagecoach Mary's brown corset.
Out From Under Replay Velvet Waffle Corset
The Out From Under Replay Velvet Waffle Corset ($59) comes in a few different jewel-tone shades and with removable straps so you can cater to your mood.
Sami Miró Vintage Alpha Corset in Vintage Denim
This Sami Miró Vintage Alpha Corset in Vintage Denim ($405) is repurposed from Levi's denim, so no two will ever be the same!
Dion Lee Ikat Camouflage Corset Crop Top
I love the natural earth tones in the Dion Lee Ikat Camouflage Corset Crop Top ($650).
