From Intimate to Empowering: Unravelling the Allure of Underwear as Outerwear in Fashion
Source: MiuMiu
Fashion has always been a realm where audacity meets empowerment, and there isn’t a trend that embodies this sentiment more than underwear as outerwear.
This concept has challenged conventional fashion norms throughout history, inviting individuals to embrace their sensuality and pushing them to exude confidence in their clothing choices; it is, to its core, a fashion trend that radiates confidence in all forms.
As a fashion trend that has made a remarkable impact over the years, from big moments on the runway to everyday fashion lovers bearing it all on the streets, underwear as outerwear has continuously been involved, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion world, and from our point of view, it is only set to continue to evolve.
I have been donning bralettes and lacy bodysuits in my outfits for years, especially during my late teenage years and early twenties. It felt scandalous, but liberating, it was almost a secret rebellion against societal norms. There was, and still is, something liberating about embracing this trend, allowing for a seamless blend of intimate garments with the everyday attire of my favourite pair of Ksubi jeans or vintage dresses. Each time I wore a bralette under a sheer top or flaunted a lace bodysuit as a part of a chic ensemble, I felt pure confidence, as if I were fearlessly breaking free from conventional fashion constraints and was truly myself.
Source: Vivienne Westwood
This trend of underwear as outerwear has had several significant moments that have truly captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. These moments not only showcased the boldness of the trend but have, in turn, also influenced fashion on a grand scale, for the rest of history!
A recent, and pivotal moment in the history of the trend occurred when Miu Miu introduced their luxurious satin panties. The fusion of sensuality and elegance has brought an entirely new dimension to underwear as an outerwear concept. The intricate lace details and sumptuous sheen of satin transformed an intimate piece of underwear into a statement of high fashion, inspiring consumers worldwide to embrace their femininity, no matter their gender, with unabashed confidence.
Fashion icon Kylie Jenner made headlines in late 2022 when she was seen in the front row of Loewe’s SS23 show wearing a viral-worthy ensemble that included the brand’s Anagram Tank Top and a pair of their Jacquard-Trimmed Stretch Jersey Briefs. This styling move further exemplified the inclusivity and empowerment that underwear as outerwear represents, with the makeup mogul inspiring a further generation to explore fashion far beyond that societal expectations.
Source: Getty Images
Of course, we can’t talk about this iconic trend without mentioning two of the most memorable designers and pieces in fashion history, two moments that paved the way for Miu Miu consumers and Kylie Jenner to step onto the streets bearing their underpants. A trailblazer in the fashion industry, Vivienne Westwood played a significant role in amplifying underwear as an outerwear fashion trend through her innovative and provocative corset designs.
Throughout the 70s and 80s, Westwood was a key figure in the punk and new wave movements, a movement that embodied challenging traditional fashion conventions and reshaping what the future of fashion was set to be. By reimagining the traditional corset, a piece historically worn as an undergarment, Vivienne Westwood transformed it into an outerwear fashion piece, elevating the corset from its historical confines and turning it into a bold symbol of empowerment and rebellion that is just as adored by consumers today, over half a decade later.
Source: Getty Images
Another one of the most iconic moments in fashion history is Jean-Paul Gaultier’s cone bra, famously worn by Madonna during her ‘Blonde Ambition’ tour. This daring creation challenged traditional notions of femininity, liberating women from conventional fashion and societal norms and celebrating unabashed sensuality with audacity and flair. The design of the cone bra pushed for an unconventional departure from traditional lingerie designs, with the boldness of the design seen as a reflection of Gaultier’s approach to fashion, pushing the boundaries of what was considered ‘acceptable’ public attire.
Alongside the design itself, Madonna’s fearless embrace of the piece elevated the spirit of empowerment and rebellion that helped put underwear as an outerwear trend as one for the history books. The trend of underwear as outerwear has transcended throughout fashion history as a powerful symbol of empowerment and liberation.
From the daring designs of renowned designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier, and most recently Miu Miu, this audacious concept continues to redefine fashion norms, encouraging fashion lovers alike to embrace their sensuality and confidence through their style.
As this trend continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a true celebration of boldness, self-expression, and the unwavering strength of individuality in the ever-changing world of fashion and we can’t wait!