Turning Your Underwear into Outerwear

Blame it on the stars. Not the ones in the sky, the glitzy ones on stage and in the tabloids. Celebrities have been wearing underwear as outerwear with varying degrees of success for many seasons now and summer is no exception. Sure, Rihanna can rock a sheer jewel-embellished bra on the red carpet but is this trend sustainable in the real world?

Then again, it’s summer for all of us. Time to dive into the cool laid-back atmosphere of picnics, street festivals and lazy afternoons by the pool. Summertime calls for easy looks that you can pull together in a cinch. And what’s easier than walking around in your undies?

Camisoles


The easiest look to pull out of your top drawer is the camisole with built-in shelf bra. You can dress it up or down and make it totally yours with various accessories. Try pinning a small brooch or a cluster of tiny ones near the strap for instant glam. Add colour to your neckline with beads or a scarf.

For a casual and comfy style, pair a neutral form-fitting stretchy cami with loose and flirty bottoms (anything trimmed in lace is red hot). Tropical prints are cropping up everywhere this season and a smooth camisole provides a great counterpoint to this style.

Itching for something romantic yet edgy? Indulge in a creamy lace top over a sleek black camisole. Very chic.

Bras


Fear not, we’re not suggesting you walk out of the house in barely a bra. Indeed, there are ways of hinting at one’s intimates without revealing too much.

Consider the sheer factor. Light and flowing see-through blouses are enjoying their moment in the sun on all the runways. Cultivate your devil may care attitude by wearing a brightly coloured bra under a sheer t-shirt. Or go for tone on tone. Navy is big right now. Get on board by pairing a sheer navy blue blouse with a navy bra.

Have fun! If you’re going for a flirty look, then it’s okay to show a bra strap… the more colourful, the better. And if you want to go that extra mile? Steal a page from Gwen Stefani’s stylebook and match your bra with your purse!

Bandeaus


Bandeau-blackFor the young and restless, bandeaus are the quintessential summer garb. Who doesn’t love the sexy appeal of a bandeau peeking out from under a blazer, racerback camisole or blouse!

If you’d like to try out this look but prefer to err on the side of caution, wear a matching coloured bra with clear straps under your bandeau. Bandeaus with a stretchy ribcage band provide support and prevent slippage. Throw on a sheer blouse, light cardigan or blazer and you’re set for a glorious night under the stars.

A Few Rules of Thumb


When taking your bras, bandeaus and camisoles out for a spin, remember that this look works its magic in a relaxed and casual setting, not in the office or any other formal environment.

Another important thing to keep in mind: make sure your undergarments fit perfectly. You definitely don’t want any unsightly bulges or rib bands riding up.

See? You can make lingerie the star of your summer outfit in an elegant and eye-catching manner without resorting to see-through mesh shorts or fishnet onesies. Cheers to gracefully getting your underwear out of the closet!

 

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