We’ve seen it all these days—London, France— so why shy away from one of the summer’s hottest runway trends out of fear that others might see your underpants? Besides, when worn right, the sheer trend is as breezy and liberating as its summer-friendly name implies, but can also be perfectly
appropriate to wear to the office. “When donning the sheer trend, the most important things to keep in mind are layering, proportion and undergarments,” says Sarah Danniels, a Vancouver-based fashion and wardrobe stylist. Danniels gives us the bare truth about how to wear the ladylike sheer trend this summer—seen on Spring/Summer 2012 runways from Lanvin to Marc Jacobs—including how to layer see-through pieces with solid ones, find your best fit and go from the office to evening-ready with your summer fashion.

How to wear the sheer trend fashion tips #1: Blend sheer and opaque pieces for the perfect look.

Like a delicately tiered wedding cake, “mastering the sheer summer trend is all about playing with layering,” says Danniels. Overlay airlight chiffon atop solid fabrics. Her best bet if feeling shy? The sheer blouse. “If the blouse is printed or patterned, opt for a solid-coloured camisole underneath.” Danniels also recommends layering a white or cream sheer linen knit top with a navy striped camisole underneath for a daytime look. Same goes for see-through skirts and dresses: wear a shorter solid slip underneath, she advises.

How to wear the sheer trend fashion tips #2: Drape yourself in breezy, see-through fabrics…

One more reason to love this summer fashion look: “The sheer trend is for all body types, says Danniels. “Just be cautious of how loose-fitting the piece is.” While this isn’t exactly pajama dressing, “sheer pieces that fall away from the skin are always classier than form-fitting ones.” Keep your layers purposeful and well proportioned instead. “The long sheer maxi skirt looks fabulous on tall women, while a sheer tunic length blouse with a great pair of dark skinny jeans looks great on curvier women.” Add a solid camisole or slip dress under the sheer top or dress so that swaths of lightweight fabric hug your silhouette perfectly. “Try belting a dress to create more definition to your waistline,” she adds.

Summer fashion must-try: Our best fashion tips for how to dress for date night.

More fashion tips on how to wear the iconic sheer skirt this summer—
the breezy, chiffon maxi—
on the next page…

How to wear the sheer trend fashion tips #3: …But keep the mystery alive.

The most important rule? “When donning a sheer ensemble, make sure you wear appropriate undergarments,” says
Danniels. “Try a form-fitting slip when
wearing a dress or skirt in case a strong breeze comes your way.” To shield from unforgiving sunlight, go for solid opaque undergarments.

How to wear the sheer trend fashion tips #4: Be barely there—day or night.

For the office, “wear a sheer blouse with a solid nude camisole underneath, tucked in to a great pair of trousers or pencil skirt,” she says. “Just make sure your bra straps match that of the camisole and the bra doesn’t show off any cleavage!” Like the icing on a cake, add a blazer or cardigan overtop for a feminine and polished finish. But don’t be afraid to show some skin for a night out. As Danniels recommends, “Wear a black bralette under a black sheer top.” For a weekend brunch, opt for a belted sheer maxi skirt or dress with a slip underneath. “Just add a simple cotton tank or T-shirt tucked in to a skirt and great necklace. “ Layer a denim jacket overtop and pair with
gladiator sandals for the perfect wind-resistant outdoor daytime look.

The sheer truth: Danniel’s tips for wearing the see-through look

“I love this trend!” says Danniels. “It’s a great way to bring out your fashion creativity and play around with items you already own in your closet. “ These are her top three fashion tips for how to wear the sheer trend this summer:

Play with your undergarments

“For daytime, always choose a nude bra or camisole. For evening, play around with the layered look and go for something more
contrasting and bold— like black or even a bright colour. Make sure the bra is fully covering and doesn’t show off any cleavage. Bralettes and cotton or spandex bustiers are perfect for this.”

Flip the switch

“When planning to go straight from work to evening play, wear a black sheer blouse that day. Change up your camisole to a bold bra and replace your pencil skirt or trousers with a great pair of skinny jeans. Add some embellished jewelry, a
bright lipstick and nude pumps are you’re ready for the night!”

Summer 2012 sheer staples

“The sheer maxi skirt and blouse are must-haves for summer 2012.”

Read more:
The six pieces you must buy this summer
How to choose the best summer dresses for your body type
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Make westernwear stylish