How to Wear Underwear as Outerwear

Once upon a time, underwear was something to hide. Think no-VPL knickers, strapless bras and nude colourways. But the tide has turned.

The roots of the underwear as outerwear trend begin in the '90s. Remember Madonna’s cone bra and Kate Moss’s barely-there silver slip dress? This trend is all about worn-to-be-seen lingerie.

As is often the way, models and celebrities were first to showcase the trend’s 2020s revival. On Autumn/Winter 2023 catwalks, trousers and skirts were replaced with sparkly knickers and tights worn as trousers. And, in the months that followed, celebrities from Beyoncé to Florence Pugh walked the red carpets in lunderwear-inspired looks.

Gen Z were next to embrace the underwear as outerwear trend, showcasing bold bras peeping out from beneath sheer tops, slinky slip dresses coupled with oversized jackets and corsets as outerwear.

If it has you intrigued but a little bewildered, our guide on how to wear the trend is the perfect place to start.

Think of the bodysuit like the corset’s more comfortable contouring cousin. Another shapewear hero, it’s the secret to achieving a svelte silhouette. But without the structure, they’re more versatile, as well as less restrictive.

For the office, wear a seamless shapewear body under your favourite oversized blazer and wide leg trousers. Remember, many are available in thong, high-leg and all-in-one styles to suit your preference.

For evening plans, choose a body with lace detailing or in a sheer fabric. Bluebella and Boutique do some standout ones, while if you have a bigger bust and need a little extra support, Panache and Pour Moi are ideal.