The girls cannot get enough of sheer. It’s quite literally taken over our fashion lives. Our favorite celebrities, from Bella Hadid to Tate McRae have all been seen wearing a sheer moment recently. It’s arguably become as important as the other style staples dominating our timelines right now, including crop tops, wide-leg jeans, and ballet flats. So, it makes sense why we’re seeing an influx of sheer tops everywhere.
Not only are they fashion-forward, but they’re quite literally perfect for the warm, summer months. They’re a cheeky way to enjoy the hotter weather while selectively showing skin. As you prepare your going out outfits, I’ve gathered some outfit inspiration to help you build that sheer ‘fit you’re going for.
Summer-Friendly All-Black
You might think an all-black ensemble isn’t possible in the heat, but this is where a good sheer look comes into play. Pairing an oversized sheer top with a bra and shorts is an easy way to lean into the trend without giving up your go-to, all-black ensemble.
High Neck With a Sheer Skirt
There’s nothing like committing to the bit. So, why stop with just a sheer shirt? Might as well pair that piece with a sheer skirt. It really brings the whole look together, and is a perfect way in for my adventurous fashion people.
Elevated Night Out
Some people are afraid wearing sheer when dressing up a look. But I’m here to remind you that it is just as chic as any other shirt you throw on. This elongated sheer top with dress pants and a gold pointed toe heel is exactly the kind of outfit you can rock this summer for those fancy nights out.
Pop of Color
A good sheer top sometimes needs a little life, so pairing a more muted skirt or bottoms with a vibrant shirt is an easy option when exploring your see-through outfit dreams.
Barely There Button-Up
Professionalism has a younger, wilder cousin and it’s this top. Button-ups are a staple in most of our wardrobes, but this cropped sheer polo is taking that look to the extreme. If you want to be bold with a top like this, pairing it with a simple straight-leg pant is a happy medium.
Fully Committing
For those who are ready to free the nipple, and commit to the sheer look the way our favorite celebrities do, this is great inspiration. An oversized neon top with a baggy bermuda shorts and platform sandals leans all the way into the trend.
Summer White With Florals
For those of us easing into the sheer look, getting a matching set (especially like this summer white one) is the best option for those still feeling unsure. It’s not only stylish, but something that can be worn all summer.
Aiyana Ishmael is the style editor at Cosmopolitan magazine. In her work, Aiyana focuses on the culture of fashion and how it intertwines and shapes the zeitgeist. She is an award-winning journalist from Miami, Florida, and a graduate of the historically Black university, Florida A&M. She is a 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30: Media honoree, and her debut romance novella PASSING GAME is set to release March of 2027 (831 Stories/Simon & Schuster).
