In recent years, the fashion world has seen a dramatic shift with lingerie stepping out of its comfort zone (ahem, the bedroom) and onto the streets. This trend, often called lingerie-as-outerwear, has been embraced by fashion-forward celebrities and influencers, and it has slowly grown to be a staple in modern wardrobes.
I remember attending a concert where the artist wore a silk corset top paired with high-waisted trousers and for some reason, the look left a lasting impression on the audience.
One notable example of this trend can be seen in the pop superstar, Sabrina Carpenter, whose sultry and playful tour outfits have captured the essence of this trend. From sparkling corsets to sheer babydoll dresses, Sabrina’s style on her Short N’ Sweet tour has further cemented how lingerie can be both a sultry and chic wear.
Historical Context
The lingerie-as-outerwear trend isn’t quite a new phenomenon as it first gained prominence in the 1980s. During this time, fashion icons and renowned designers began to blur the lines between intimate outfits and everyday wear, thus, challenging traditional notions of what was regarded as acceptable for public display.
Vivienne Westwood and Thierry Mugler were one of the few pioneering designers who embraced and popularized this aesthetic.
For Westwood, her designs notably featured punk-inspired designs which were often incorporated into her corsets and bustiers collections.
In the same vein, Mugler’s one-of-a-kind approach to fashion saw the incorporation of structured, lingerie-inspired pieces that emphasized the body’s natural curves in an attempt to highlight sensuality and strength.
As the trend grew, it evolved, bringing with it a fresh perspective each and every time. For instance, in the 1990s, the grunge movement meant that slip dresses and camisoles were worn as outerwear. The early 2000s evolved in a similar manner but this time, celebrities like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera donning embellished bras and corsets on stage and in their music video performances.
Today, the lingerie-as-outerwear aesthetic has been embraced by a new generation of models, fashion enthusiasts and designers. The modern take on wearing it often features sheer lace bralettes worn under blazers, sheer tops revealing intricate bras, and corset tops paired with high-waisted or baggy jeans.
The Celebrity Influence on this Trend
Sabrina Carpenter:
She is perhaps the most recent celebrity to hop on this aesthetic/trend, and she prominently did so during a tour to promote her album. She wore
bold and daring stage outfits, some of which featured custom pieces from Victoria’s Secret. Her fits included intricate lingerie sets, sheer negligees, and shiny corsets which bore her signature heart shape in the middle of the fit.
These outfits have not only put a spotlight on her personal style, it has also set trends that fans and fashion enthusiasts eagerly copy to put their own spin to it.
Bella Hadid:
Bella Hadid, arguably, may just have been the forerunner of the modern take of lingerie-as-outerwear. Both on and off the run, this model has been spotted in this trend.
For streetwear, she often steps out in bralettes paired with high-waisted trousers or skirts and boots or sheer tops that reveal delicate lace bras, and corsets worn as tops.
Kendall Jenner:
Kendall Jenner is another supermodel who doesn’t shy away from lingerie-inspired outfits, both on and off the runway. She has been captured by the paparazzi wearing sheer tops with visible bras, corsets as tops, and even lingerie-style dresses.
How to Incorporate this Trend into your Everyday Wear
1. Begin with the ‘Classics’:
For example, camisoles and slip gowns are versatile staples and are easily styled.
To wear: Pair a silk camisole with high-waisted jeans and a blazer or light weight jacket for a chic vibe. Slip gowns can be worn over a turtleneck or under a chunky knitted sweater for a balanced look.
Alternatively, wearing a bralette under a sheer blouse or a low-cut top is ideal for a night out with your girl besties, or to lunch with a loved one.
2. Learn to Layer:
Examples of some layers for this aesthetic include: blazers, cardigans, jackets and sweaters.
To wear: Wearing a tailored blazer or denim jacket over a lingerie piece can add structure and make the outfit more appropriate for some settings eg office.
Alternatively, wearing a cozy cardigan or an oversized sweater over a lacy bralette can make you look the part of a stylish maven.
3. Combine Textures:
To wear: Combine fine lingerie fabrics like lace and silk with casual materials like denim, leather, or cotton to make your loom seem well balanced.
Additionally, pairing lingerie tops with high-waisted skirts, trousers, or jeans gives you a polished and put-together look.
4. Accessorize with Care:
Think statement jewelry, belts and unique bags for whatever give you’re going for.
To wear: Statement necklaces, earrings, or bracelets can elevate the look and even draw attention to the details of the outfit.
In the same way, adding a belt to a slip dress or a long camisole can define the waist (no matter your body type) and add structure as well as class to the outfit.
5. Be Mindful of Footwear:
To wear: Choose heels for that elegant and sophisticated look.
Alternatively, wearing sneakers, boots, or flat shoes can make the outfit seem more casual and suitable for your normal day-to-day activities.
6. Consider the Occasion:
For a casual day out, go for a lace bralette under a loose tank top or a camisole with jeans and a cardigan.
However, if it’s a work or formal setting, go for more conservative pieces like a silk blouse with lace designs or a structured camisole worn under a blazer.
