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How to Wear Sheer Clothing Without Feeling Naked

I see London, I see France.

Style Equations
Collage of Sheer Clothing
Photos: Getty Images

Between the glittery slip skirts and colorful fishnets from Gucci, Miu Miu’s polka dot halter dress, and the fluttering layers of the Dries Van Noten jackets, sheer fabric emerged as one of fashion month’s most wearable trends. If you’ve been looking for an excuse to go full Kate Moss, now is your time. For those who aren’t prepared for a full naked dress moment, transparency can still be a fun element to play with—organza, sheer silk, and tulle are gorgeous layered over fabric or skin. Here, we’ve gathered four ways to experiment with see-through garments this spring, whether you are looking to free the nip or maintain modesty.

White Tank Top + Pencil Skirt + Trench Coat

Photo of Woman in Leather Coat and Sheer Panel Midi Skirt

Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Collage of White Tank Top, Panel Midi Skirt, Leather Coat, and Black Heels

If anyone has mastered the art of elegant sheerness, it’s Ms. Prada—look no further than her massively influential spring/summer ’97 collection. The key to this look is balancing a casual element (a ribbed white tank top here, but a t-shirt would also suffice) with the business casual vibe of a pencil skirt, mary jane heel, and trench. The transparent panel of the skirt adds a tasteful touch of sensuality and intrigue.

Go Heels

Valentino Garavani Black Tan-Go Heels
Valentino Garavani
$980

White Jacket + Midi Tulle Skirt + Mary Janes

Photo of Woman in White Jacket and Sheer Tulle Skirt

Photo: Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Collage of Black Body Suit, Sheer Tulle Skirt, and White Jacket

A few months ago, Kendall Jenner inspired headlines and waves of TikTok imitators with her leotard-and-tights outfit, reminiscent of Edie Sedgewick’s signature style. If you aren’t ready to go completely bottomless, pairing a bodysuit with a tulle or organza skirt, a white jacket, and dainty flats is a lovely balletcore alternative. If this is too revealing, you can always opt for bike shorts or a slip under the skirt.

Delia Shoes

Vagabond Delia Shoe
Vagabond
$120

Monochrome Outfit + Contrasting Overlayer

Photo of Guest in Sheer Blue Coat, Sequin Crop Top and Olive Green Pants

Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Collage of Sheer Blue Coat, Sequin Crop Top and Olive Green Pant

A great way to experiment with sheerness while maintaining modesty is to add a transparent element over an existing outfit, with special attention to color. Here, we love how the light, breezy blue jacket contrasts with the olive tones of the top and trousers. This is also an excellent way to shield your skin from sun damage on hot days.

Sheer Slip Dress + Cowboy Boots + Your Chicest Underthings

Photo of Woman in Sheer Slip Dress and Cowboy Boots

Photo: Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Collage of Sheer Slip Dress, Cowboy Boots, Black Bra top and Black Briefs

We all remember when Jenny Humphrey tried to sabotage Vanessa by making her a see-through gown for the snowflake ball, but the joke was on Little J. Although everyone laughed at Vanessa once the spotlight revealed the dress’s translucence, she actually looked amazing. With this in mind, the next time it’s warm out and you’re feeling brave, why not try wearing a sheer dress with a cute bralette and high-waisted briefs? Then elevate the look further with cowboy boots and statement jewelry.

Dagget Western Boots

Jeffrey Campbell Dagget Western Boots
Jeffrey Campbell
$270
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