A Sophisticated Notion

Hello Ladies,

As a lover of all things fashion, I’ve seen quite a few outfits that involve a sheer or lace top worn without a protective camisole so that the bra is exposed.

While some variations look effortlessly chic, I feel that others seem to say:  “Whoops!  Silly me!  I left the house and didn’t check that my top wasn’t see through.”  For example, I love these looks courtesy of Fashion Network Seattle:

The success of this trend depends on making it look intentional as well as balancing the sex appeal of the shirt with appropriate support pieces.  For example, the outfit with the polka dot top and jeans would be fun for weekends while the versions featuring leather accessories have a more daring, after-hours appeal.

As a lady who loves pretty lingerie, I find the concept of the trend appealing because you can achieve a sexy but demure balance between coverage and exposure.  Your gorgeous bra is on display but in a way that the sex appeal can be tempered and controlled.  Check out this version from Mila Keln Fashion:

The relaxed fit of the support pieces and the casual vibe of the boyfriend jeans, brogues, and jacket balance the cheeky peekaboo quality of the top.  I also love this quirky version from Who What Wear:

In the other inspiration pictures I found, the bra is more neutral whereas here it takes center stage and even complements the color of her skirt and shoes.  With all the gorgeous prints and colors coming up in the lingerie world, the sheer trend allows for showcasing your latest lingerie purchase in a fun but still appropriate way.  Imagine the Parfait Danielle or Freya Patsy longlines worn underneath a silky white button-front!

Nevertheless, it did not escape my attention that many of the ladies rocking this trend tend to be slender with smaller busts, and I was curious whether the look would translate well to someone with curves.  Then, I found this picture:

With the higher waist and solid colored bra, the effect is almost like a regular plunging neckline instead of exposing your undergarments to the world.  Add a black tuxedo jacket, and the boldness of the look diminishes even more and, depending on the office environment, could make this risky fashion choice a viable work option.

If baring your bra isn’t your style, you can still wear a lace tee or tank over something with more coverage—a styling choice I love.  Since my bras tend to have sheer lace panels of their own, I worry about showing some nipple along with my bra, and I’m also hesitant about revealing that much skin in the more fashion-conservative south.

Your turn:  Would you bare your bra for the sheer trend, or do you feel the look is too risque?  Also, do you think this trend is accessible for women of different sizes and shapes, or does it work better for certain body types?

Erica