How to Wear Sheer Tops

Wearing sheer can be pretty tricky. Done incorrectly, the trend can look tacky and inappropriate.
But, if the trend is done well, sheer tops look classy and elegant.
Here are some tips to help you achieve the latter.
How To Wear
When sheer tops are worn on the runway, they are almost always worn with nothing underneath. I’m not sure why designers decide to do that. It makes the look appear unwearable for real-life. I don’t even think most models would go that route off the runway. Here are a couple of ways to make the look wearable.
With A Bra
Wearing a sheer top with an attractive, lace bra is becoming quite popular. Stars like Rihanna have been seen wearing the trend. Zephyr at College Fashion wrote a ‘Would You Wear’ article on the topic. Most of her readers agree that it’s something worth trying. It’s definitely a look that takes some courage, but can look quite sexy and cute when pulled off well. Just remember to wear an attractive, tasteful bra. Another option is to wear a cropped tube top underneath. This looks less risque, but offers the same type of look.
With A Camisole
The most obvious way to wear sheer tops is with a camisole underneath. Choose a camisole that is either close to the color of your skin or close to the color of the sheer top you are wearing. Staying monochromatic maintains the mystery and romanticism of the sheer top. Pairing with a camisole in a contrasting color can make the look harsh and overly bold.
Modest

If you’re not interested in baring it all, go for something a bit more modest. Plenty of tops selectively place sheer fabric so you can enjoy the soft look without having to worry about what to wear underneath.
Tanks
Another dressy option is a sheer tank. Most are loose like the one pictured here. If you’re feeling daring, wear a lacy bra underneath. If you’d like to be more modest, opt for a nude cami. To be even more modest, top with a blazer.
T-Shirts

For something a little more casual, try a sheer tee. Most of the tees made by Kain are somewhat sheer, lightweight and surprisingly well-draped for a T-Shirt.
What do you think? Would you wear sheer? How would you wear it?

















July 16th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
I am very into this trend, but I really like your pick:)
July 16th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
I like the look in theory, but I think it’s very hard to pull off with class. And fit it into every day wear.
July 17th, 2009 at 2:03 am
Love the mails that I get from ssasychic, I use them as a guideline when I go out shopping. Thanks for the Top ten fasthion trends for fall, was such a help, when u can get so confused by what themes the designers tend to bring up.
July 17th, 2009 at 9:31 am
youngblog: Thanks!
Krissy: Yeah, I know what you mean. I think you already have to have an edgy style to pull off the bra look. With a camisole, though, it’s a very sophisticated look that anyone can wear.
zara: Thank you, thank you! You made my morning.
July 20th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
[...] Seen in everything from evening gowns, to wear-to-work blouses, see-through material is a big trend for this Spring. Seen on the runway, these pieces were not made conservative with layers or undergarments. For the real world, though, a slip or light tank would be more appropriate. Shown: Zac Posen For how to wear sheer tops, check out this post. [...]
September 22nd, 2009 at 5:24 pm
I have a sheer top, black, in the style of a ‘pancho’ … just drapes over me & partly over the straight lined, short black skirt.
Please advise about undergarment/top … and, also, are sheer black stockings in style, now?
Many, many thanks .
September 22nd, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Diane,
Great question! You have a few options. If you want to be a little daring, you can wear a black, lacy bra under your top. For something that draws attention, but is more conservative, wear a satin tank in hot pink or another bright color. For something even more conservative, wear a satin tank in black under your sheer top.
Sheer black stockings are definitely in style. Especially with peep-toe heels.
Good luck! Let us know how it goes!