Trend-spotting for Fall: Lingerie-Inspired

I guess with this economy designers feel like we should trip down to the basics. And I mean the basic basics. As in underwear. The lingerie obsession has been a fixture on the runways for a few seasons now, but I think this year it really blossomed. Now, that doesn't mean that everyone should stop wearing shirts altogether--some versions of this trend are more wearable than others.

Christopher Kane, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta


Miu Miu, Miu Miu, Stella McCartney


I think that there are two iterations of this trend: actual underwear exposure, like the exposed bras at Balenciaga and Miu Miu, and then pieces that are more inspired by lingerie, like the dresses at Bottega Veneta, Stella McCartney, and Christopher Kane. While the more literal look works well on the runways, it's not that great of an option for real life. I've seen a few models (Erin Wasson namely, but she can wear anything) rock the whole shirtless-under-my-blazer look, but I think that might be best left to professionals unless you want to look like you forgot your shirt. Go for a dress that's bustier or slip-inspired instead. The bustier-esque dress at Christopher Kane had just enough of a lingerie vibe to be sexy, with the sheer ruffles and bra-detailing, but still manages to come off as totally day-appropriate. The slip dresses at Bottega Veneta and Stella McCartney balance a less-fitted body with a slinky fabric and a sexy detail, like a bra top or sheer lace panels--just enough to be on-trend without crossing the line into slutty.

Image Sources:
Christopher Kane: style.com
Balenciaga: style.com
Bottega Veneta: style.com
Miu Miu: style.com
Stella McCartney: style.com