Bringing out the beauty of corsets: Fashion fan's themed party breaks world record

A large themed costume event held in Japan made history as it broke a Guinness World Records title.

The key garment of the day? The corset, the waist-tightening fashion item that originated in the West, was the theme for this record-breaking event held in Harajuku.

The mastermind behind the event was Takumi Nakajima, who manages an acupuncture salon in her day job. And it was her passion that resulted in the largest gathering of people wearing corsets, with 376 participants.

Takumi's love for corsets started when she was 18.

"When I was learning ballet at the time, I felt that corsets really fit your body so well. Then I found out that corsets are sold as fashion items, and that got me excited," she said.

From there, Takumi started wearing corsets when she went out to club events at night. However, it is usually impossible to sit and have a relaxing conversation, unless you pay to get into VIP rooms.

Read this story in Japanese here and check out more Japanese content here.

Takumi's first event was held in June 2008, where there were less than 10 people gathered. But year after year, the size of the event grew. And by the time she decided to create an official corset anniversary with the Japan Anniversary Association, Takumi had her sights set on a world record title.

However, COVID-19 restrictions meant that the record attempt had to be halted. It was only this year that Takumi was able to hold a large-scale event again.

"People from all over Japan had come to the event today. People told me how excited they were getting ready to come to Harajuku with their corsets."

The way in which participants incorporated corsets in their fashion were diverse; from Rococo-inspired dresses to kimono fusion, anime themes, and more. 

"Corset is like a limited canvas. But depending on the person wearing it, the facade changes completely. That's the allure of it all." 

While it was Takumi's passion and love for corsets that resulted in this record-breaking event, she feels the record might help more people to get into corsets.

Corsets aren't a duty as it may have been centuries ago. It's now a street fashion. Wear it freely, as you see fit.

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