It seems 2023 is the year of underwear on parade, as the 'exposed bra' trend joins the ranks of sheer dresses and 'no pants' fits as the must-have, celebrity-endorsed look.
Yes, much like the 'exposed thong' vibe—which has also had a revival in recent months— the Y2K visible bra look is also making a comeback with everyone from Sydney Sweeney to Scarlett Johansson having a peekaboo bra moment on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet.
This marks the latest underwear-baring trend to enter the fashion zeitgeist, and naturally—we want in. So, here's how celebs are wearing it and how to incorporate the style into your own capsule wardrobe...
What is the 'exposed bra' look?
Remember the days of trying to conceal your bra straps and the frustration of having the lace of your bra creeping out from under a low-cut tank or dress? Well, those days are over and instead, what was once cruelly dubbed a 'wardrobe malfunction,' is now the height of fashion.
As the name would suggest, outfits that leave your bra exposed are in—according to the likes of Sydney Sweeney anyway.
Now this trend can be approached in a number of ways—by wearing a sheer top or dress with your bra visible underneath or, with the top of your bra showing out from under a dress and so on. Take these looks from Sydney and Scarlett for instance...
Sydney wore a white satin dress, with a blue lace bra framing the neckline of her gown at the Cannes Film Festival.
Similarly, Scarlett Johansson wore a pink satin, strapless dress, with a white 'bra' like detailing creating the rest of the bodice. The look is very reminiscent of 2000s fashion—where sporting a tank top with a brightly colored bra underneath was all the rage. Basically, Mean Girls predicted the future with that Regina George, holes in her tank top prank.
MIL's edit of 'exposed bra' outfits
To channel this look there are a few avenues you can go down:
- A: wear a sheer item with a bra underneath, creating that visible bra aesthetic
- B: wear a dress with a deliberate bra element
- C: layer a cute lacey or statement bra underneath a low-cut top or dress, to create your own exposed bra ensemble
Basically, as long as a bit of your bra is showing, you've nailed the trend but we've rounded up a few staples to make your styling easier...
RRP: $59.90
For a take on Sydney Sweeny's Cannes dress, you could pair this square-neck, white maxi slip dress with a pastel blue bra or bralette. Available in sizes XS to XL.
RRP: $19.99
This style of bra is perfect for this trend thanks to its pretty lace detailing. It also provides some coverage over the nip area, if you wanted some extra reassurance on that front! Pair it under a slip dress (like the ZARA one) or a strapless dress/top for a peekaboo effect.
RRP: $179.99
This dress from Mango is also another good option and has similar cup detailing to Sydney's dress. Plus, it has an open back so extra bra exposed! We'd recommend pairing this black dress with either a statement shade like hot pink or with a white lace bra.
RRP: $37
Another bra that would pair perfectly with a slip dress. This bra features adjustable straps and underwire, for extra support.
RRP: $69.90
Alternatively, opt for a sheer top or dress with a cute bralette underneath. This look is equally as on-trend right now and a colorful bra would look so cute under this style of blouse.
