Trend Test: Summer Sheer

Words by Jody Hume | 7.19.18
Transparency has become a buzzy topic in the fashion world recently, and rightly so. Where do our clothes come from? How does their production affect the environment? How can the industry reduce its impact? As it becomes clear that these questions aren’t going away, it seems designers with transparency on the brain may have begun to take the concept literally. At Dior, sheer dresses in every length and color were layered over bodysuits and shorts. Dries Van Noten was in a similar mood, with barely there sheer slips over minimal dresses and delicate mesh tops over menswear-inspired button-ups. We’re all for transparency in both senses, but wearing sheer on the runway is one thing; how do you adapt it for real life? Here, we experimented with a few ideas.

Bare Minimum

Jil Sander Sheer Button-Up | Chanel Logo Jelly Tote

On the weekend, we say go for it — sheer sans the layers, especially if it’s hot out, just makes sense. With all of the recent cries to free the nipple and naked dresses showing on red carpets from Cannes to the Met, no one should bat an eye. A minimal button-up in a pastel shade feels casual but pulled-together with denim, and a frosted jelly tote and clear cat-eye specs round out the theme without feeling too on-the-nose.

Adam Selman X Le Specs Last Lolita Sunglasses

 

Sheer Energy

Off-White Baseball Cap | Gucci Logo Sweatshirt | Thomas Wylde Sheer Maxi Dress | Gucci Embellished Slide Sandals

Who says athleisure has to be all about performance wear? Graphic lines courtesy of Off-White and Gucci’s logo tee and glittering summer-ready pool shoes lend an edge to an otherwise ethereal sheer skirt. Consider this look the street style-inspired alternative to your gauzy swim cover-up.

 

Not Out-Of-Office

Gucci Silk Organza Blouse | Céline High-Rise Pants | Christian Dior Dio(r)evolution Bag

It’s clear that sheer poses some risks in a 9-5 environment. But this trend can live indoors. Just keep it appropriate with a neutral base layer and pair with a toned-down trouser for a look that says “this is business.” A structured, neutral logo bag is the perfect complement to playful colors and textures and will go with everything else in your wardrobe to boot.

Get transparent. Shop our editors’ sheer picks here.

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