While we acknowledged the revival of sheer clothing when it hit heavy last spring, the trend of baring what’s underneath has become more and more prominent within the brands we know and love. Some of us (ahem, ME) are old enough to have rocked this risque trend that nearly got us sent home to change (me again) back in the early nineties with our chiffon collared shirts and gossamer babydoll dresses, which are now considered vintage, depending on who you’re talking to. Personally, I had four different variations in middle school courtesy of my favorite store (and first retail job) Contempo Casuals — may her racks of complete and utter awesomeness rest in peace. I have to admit, when the barely-there trend walked down the spring ’18 runways I was not the happiest camper. I prefer to keep myself and my lady bits hidden for the most part and this trend, although somewhat appealing, made me feel all sorts of bodily pressure that I wasn’t ready for. But, I also really wanted to wear some of these clothes!
By the end of summer, I had embraced the transparent mood to show a little skin, albeit modestly, with a thin lace bodysuit worn underneath a blazer and trousers. My husband thought it taboo, but I felt sexy, classy, and confident all at the same time. I can most certainly tell you that I will never bare it all. I don’t plan to #freethenipple like many fearless women so boldly do — hello, mother of four here — but, I have found ways to wear some of these resurrected looks within my comfort zone. Being mindful of the undergarments that peek out from behind and getting creative with layers is how it’s done. There are no rules when it comes to fashion and personal style. It’s important to experiment and try things on for size that may not necessarily fit inside your box of normal. If you are inspired or see something you like, take if for a test drive and make it your own. Clothing is fun and you can wear or not wear whatever you damn well please.
In honor of the transparent clothing movement that I have admittedly grown to love, and as a nod in acceptance to the organza, chiffon, lace, and mesh beauts you may have scrolled past while browsing online, I’ve gathered a variety of see-through pieces for all comfort levels, along with some suggested undergarments to extend wearability. Tell us your thoughts on the translucent trend in the comments.
Dare to Bare
Molly Goddard Ruffled Tulle Dress
"While totally see-through, this adorable dress can be easily styled according to your comfort level. Pair with a slip dress to show a bit less, or a bandeau and boy shorts to show off that pilates bod."
Molly Goddard , $680
Collina Strada Disnee Dress
"This one's on my want list. I'd pair it with a calf-length slip dress below."
Collina Strada , $495
Ganni Organza Shirt
"I definitely sported a version of this shirt back in the day. It's the perfect way to spice up a business suit with a little party underneath."
Ganni , $190
Aéryne Camille Top
"This mesh tie-dye top is another on my want list, but selling out fast everywhere. I would wear this one with a simple bralette and black high-waisted pants or under a long slip dress."
Aéryne , $100
Laura Ashley x UO Organza Button-Front Blouse
"Talk about a throw back. Laura Ashley, the queen of toile, is making a bold comeback and I like it. I'd style this top with high-waisted pants in a loud stripe or check, or with my best jeans for a more toned-down look. Pair with a cropped silk cami or opaque bralette."
Laura Ashley x UO , $89
Aéryne Sarah Dress
"Shown with a matching slip, this piece is actually much more versatile since it's a wrap. Keep it as intended or wear it open as a sheer top layer."
Aéryne , $240
Maje PU Trench Coat
"A transparent trench to throw over your everyday attire will keep the modesty goals alive and well, while adding a little extra style to the mix."
Maje , $340
Out From Under Sheer Organza Slip Dress
"This would be cute with a brightly colored or patterned sports bra and bike short set underneath, layered with an oversized blazer."
Out From Under , $59
Jimmy Choo PVC & Leather Slingback Pumps
"Another great way to master the trend is with PVC accessories. You just can't go wrong with a really good pair of shoes."
Jimmy Choo , $750
Staud Shirley PVC & Leather Tote
"A crystal-clear bag won't show off your body, but it will expose what's in your purse. Luckily this one comes with its own undergarment in the form of a zipper pouch to keep some belongings private."
Staud , $210
Collina Strada Cardio Nova Top
"Pair this one under a slip dress for a more modest approach, or rock it with a bandeau or bralette if you dare."
Collina Strada , $225
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Trinity Pant
"I picture these pants worn in the evening with leggings, tuxedo blazer, and bold accessories."
Maryam Nassir Zadeh , $474
Dorothee Schumacher Transparent Veil coat
"Another show-stopping coat to layer above everyday wear."
Dorothee Schumacher , $438
Molly Goddard Brown Blessing Dress
"The addition of a simple slip dress (I'd go with red) or two-piece set under this cutie and you'll be all set."
Molly Goddard , $1,125
Out From Under Sheer Crew Sock
"Not quite ready to branch into the world of transparent clothing? Try these sheer socks on for size."
Out From Under , $14
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Lauren Slide
"Add these sunny, see-through, patent leather babies to any summer look for an added dose of color and style. The compliments await."
Maryam Nassir Zadeh , $421
Christopher Kane Sheer Silk Blouse
"Love this sheer silk blouse styled with a high-waist skirt and camisole or with a pair of leopard print cigarette pants."
Christopher Kane , $338
Ganni Printed Mesh Dress
"This is another one on my want list. I love the semi-sheer mesh fabric and all-over print. Plus, it's a good unassuming shape."
Ganni , $170
loéil Hortensia Top
"This sweet ruffle blouse would look so great over a swim top. Add a pair of patterned shorts to complete the look."
loéil , $122
Aéryne Monie Trousers
"These pants are definitely unique, but I'm into them. Love the short bike shorts worn underneath."
Aéryne , $195
Cielo Sheer Stripe Bib Blouse
"A semi-sheer blouse with oversized collar that's just begging for a bold pair of wide-legged trousers."
Cielo , $106
Helmut Lang Lace Legging
"This whole look is oh-so good and versatile, too. The leggings could be worn as is or layered under another sheer pant or dress."
Helmut Lang , $380
Aéryne Agathe Top
"Add a white cami and tuck this baby into anything for instant wow!"
Aéryne , $128
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Wren Blouse
"No other suggestions here. The styling on this blouse is perfect."
Maryam Nassir Zadeh , $557
What's Underneath
Zara Fluorescent Bike Shorts
"A bold shorts option with a longer leg to wear under sheer dresses."
Zara , $26
Anine Bing Zebra-Print Satin
"A bralette too pretty not to show off, yet covers up in all the right places."
Anine Bing , $90
Alix Stretch-Lace Bodysuit
"This can be worn under a transparent blouse or alone with a nice suit."
Alix , $165
Lacausa Sophia Slip Tank
"When it comes to camisoles the options are a plenty, but this one is great because it has texture and a nice low V."
Lacausa , $55
Outdoor Voices Freeform Bralette
"A set of athleisure wear can make any see-through ensemble more wearable. I love a good pop of color."
Outdoor Voices , $45
Outdoor Voices Freeform Bike Shorts
"This terracotta hue would look so good under a sheer white."
Outdoor Voices , $45
Anine Bing Lace Bra With Trim
"This bra is a stunner and looks great behind semi-sheer or low-cut tops for a little peek at that lace trim."
Anine Bing , $89
Lacausa Alma Slip Dress
"The perfect calf-length slip dress to layer over or under more clothes. And coming from someone who owns it, I'll add that it's lightweight and comfortable."
Lacausa , $80
TyLynn Nguyen White Praise Bra
"Wear this white satin bra under sheer pastels."
TyLynn Nguyen , $170
Outdoor Voices Freeform Leotard
"A leotard is another piece that's easy to sport underneath sheer pieces. And again with the bold color to make it fun."
Outdoor Voices , $65
Girlfriend Classic Bike Short
"Layer a classic bike short for summer. Girlfriend makes them in several different lengths to accommodate your needs and preference, and they look so cute under sheer dresses."
Girlfriend , $48
Lacausa Chloe Slip
"A simple slip with tiny lace hem to accompany all of those dreamy dresses above. Plus, it's on sale and comes in a pretty blush color, too!"
Lacausa , $50
Araks Antonia Bralett
"I love Araks. The bras are beautiful and make a great choice for layering under see-through shirts and dresses. This marigold color has my heart!"
Araks , $78
