Sheer perfection—the cool-girl's guide to wearing see-through well

Sheer is back, and this time, it’s all about illusion, movement, and drapery. Translucent garments have always been a power move in fashion. Remember Marilyn Monroe’s iconic “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” dress? Or when Kate Moss’s ‘90s slip dress that defined effortless, undone glamour? Fast forward to now, and fashion’s it-girls are turning sheer into high art—think crystal-embellished naked dresses and barely-there layers that practically beg for a double take.

Its evolution from daring to runway is now complete. From Paris Fashion Week’s diaphanous organza to New York’s hottest shows featuring chiffon so light it might float away, designers are redefining diaphanous clothing. It’s not just about showing skin—it’s about creating depth, layering, and contrast that make an outfit feel tactile. “Sheer clothing is making a strong comeback,” say designers Abraham and Thakore, the masters of cool, structured designs. But how do you rock it without feeling like you’re Bianca Censori at the Grammys? Let’s break it down.

The balancing act

The trick to sheer dressing is all in the balance. “The key to wearing it tastefully lies in playing with opacity, layering, and silhouettes to create an elegant yet effortless look,” explain Abraham and Thakore. “Think of clever underlayers, a sleek tank top under a sheer shirt, a sequined bikini top, or tiny shorts under a sheer skirt.” The right mix of coverage and transparency makes sheer feel sophisticated, not scandalous.

These pieces work best when they suggest rather than reveal. “Sheer clothing is everywhere this season because it’s the perfect mix of bold and effortless. It lets you show a little without giving everything away—it’s fashion’s version of a wink!” says celebrity stylist Eshaa Amin. Whether you’re testing the waters with a semi-sheer blouse or diving in headfirst with a translucent gown, the key is to keep it intentional and oh-so-refined.

What’s underneath counts

Sheer dressing isn’t just about what’s on the outside—it’s about what’s underneath. Fabric choice plays a huge role in making sheer work. “Light, airy materials like chiffon, mesh, and organza make transparency feel intentional, not overwhelming,” Amin explains. Flowing silhouettes create a soft, romantic feel, while structured cuts add edge and sophistication. Whether you go for a billowy overlay or a sharply tailored panel, contrast is what makes the look striking, not overexposed.

The right foundation pieces can make it feel sleek and stylish rather than unfinished. A lace bralette, sleek bodysuit, or minimalist bandeau transforms sheer from risky to runway-ready. For those craving a little more coverage, a nude slip or tailored corset adds structure without sacrificing the airy elegance of veiled fabrics.

“A slip dress, bodysuit, or oversized blazer keeps things refined while still letting the sheer moment shine,” says Amin. The trick is to let one see-through piece take centre stage while keeping the rest of the look structured and composed.The biggest mistake to avoid? “Overdoing it with multiple sheer pieces can make it look messy. Keep it sleek, balanced, and intentional,” warns Amin.

Layering is the secret sauce that makes sheer fashion wearable beyond the runway. A sheer blouse over a tailored bralette? Chef’s kiss. A transparent skirt with structured shorts? Yes, please. A barely-there dress grounded with a sharp blazer? Count us in.

From daylight to spotlight

One of the best things about sheer? It works for every occasion. For an easy daytime look, layer a gauzy blouse over a tank with relaxed jeans and sneakers. Heading out for the night? A barely-there dress over a slip with heels is effortlessly glamorous. Want something in between? A mesh skirt over biker shorts with a crop top nails the balance between sexy and streetwear cool.

Want to dip into the sheer trend? Start with these effortlessly chic pieces that strike the perfect balance between bold and wearable.

Marviza Emilia Shirt, ₹9,500

 

Graine Render Pleats Trousers, ₹15,800

 

Gucci Sheer Sleeve Lace-Trim Velvet Dress on Culture Circle, ₹1,50,000

 

Dash & Dot Organza Bow Shirt, ₹3,290

 

Arpita Mehta Coconut Mirror & Pearl Hand Embroidered skirt set, Price on request

 

So whether you’re dipping your toes into the trend with a whisper of organza or going full-force with a sheer showstopper, with the right styling, you'll own it.

Lead image: Getty Images

Product images: Marviza, Graine, Gucci, Dash & Dot, Arpita Mehta

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