Underwear As Outerwear: 5 Tips For Taking On The Trend

From bodysuits to corsets, camisoles to bras, lingerie is increasingly emerging from the discreet world of underwear into the fashion world of outerwear. You can see it all over the catwalks and numerous celebrities displaying statement items of underwear.

Underwear as outerwear is one of those trends that sounds tricky to nail. But in reality, putting together a sophisticated look with your luxury lingerie is much easier than you’d expect.

Here are five stylish ways to show off your favourite underwear pieces. Scroll down to learn more.

What Is The Underwear As Outerwear Trend?

Luxurious lingerie is beautiful, detailed and - let’s face it - expensive. So, why not show it off? The secret is to incorporate your treasured underwear pieces into sophisticated outfits for a new look and oodles of confidence. 

Underwear can work as a great focal piece for an evening look, and it can also be pared down for a street-style outfit. No matter the occasion, you can shake things up by giving your lingerie some daylight time. Versatility is key here.

How To Wear Underwear As Outerwear

Ready to rock the trend? Here are five underwear as outerwear suggestions to help you get inspired. Play around with each until you feel confident. After all, how you feel is the most important factor. 

1. Embrace The Bodysuit

Forget searching through your wardrobe for new going-out tops. Your underwear draw is where it’s at. Bodysuits have long been a favourite aspect of underwear, and now your collection can see the light of day. 

Bodysuits are a great starting place if you’re new to the trend. Since they offer more coverage, they’re easier to disguise if you don’t want too obvious an underwear look. Just  match your bodysuit with a pair of high-waisted trousers or a skirt for a sophisticated look.

Want more of a boho style? Layer your bodysuit under a sheer maxi dress for a more feminine and dramatic effect.

The Aubade Les Bodys Long Sleeve Luxury Bodysuit makes for a striking option with a back cut out, guipure motifs, and a sleek crepe-like fabric.

2. Show Off Your Bra

If you’re a proud owner of a luxury bra collection, it’s time to give them the spotlight. Bras come in all colours, textures, and styles, so there’s always something to match your overall look. 

A particularly popular way to reveal your bra is underneath a sheer bodycon top. This gives you minimal coverage while allowing your underwear to be the focal point. 

There are multiple ways to explore this style. From monochrome themes to clashing colours, opt for the palette you feel most comfortable in. Black is always a great option for this style, and the Valery Camelia Luxury Wired Balcony Bra is here to elevate every combination. 

3. Reverse Layering

Want to keep yourself covered but still want to explore underwear as outerwear?  Reverse layering is the trick for you.

This technique is all about subverting typical styling points. For example, rather than wearing only a bra, you layer your bra on top of your shirt. This gives you a chance to show off your delicate lace garment but also means you’re not exposed. 

Pair a chic lace bralette with a slightly oversized cotton shirt and jeans for a contemporary look. The Huit Cafe Fleur Wireless Bralette is excellent for this style, as its classic front clasp closure makes perfecting the style quick and easy. 

4. Swap To Stockings

Black tights are a must in every wardrobe. However, they’re not ideal if you want to make a statement. Coloured and patterned tights are set to make a comeback in 2024, and what better way to experiment with this trend than by giving your stockings a new breath of life? 

Stockings with lace hems are a particularly great way to elevate your look. Plus, they offer a true vintage feel, perfect for date night or drinks with the girls. 

5. Expose Basques & Corsets

Finally, it wouldn’t be an underwear as an outerwear guide without mentioning basques and corsets. These iconic garments can act as tops and layering pieces, giving you endless combinations to play with. 

For an evening style, pair your corset with tailored trousers and heeled boots. Want to wear your basque in the day? Opt for jeans and layer the piece over a simple white tee. Effortless and eye-catching. Adding a jacket over the top can make the outfits feel more wearable during the day.

Final Words

Trying underwear as outerwear for the first time can feel unnatural. But after trying a few different combinations, you’ll know what feels best for you. With these tips, you can transform your favourite outfit rotations without buying any new clothes. Now, start experimenting.

Explore the latest lingerie trends and insights in the Maison SL blog.