A Sheer Thing
Some trends seem best suited to the runways, left to the devices of fashion designers who can get away with styles more bold and outrageous than you'd ever consider in your everyday life. Making them work, though, is just a matter of incorporating them into your wardrobe in small, practical doses. Whether a vivacious print or a sculptured cut, there's no reason to avoid a fun look just because it might feel too brazen at first.
Case in point: While a sheer garment of any kind might not seem like the wisest or easiest fashion choice you can make, it's simpler than ever this season. While the look was spotted in myriad variations on spring 2010 runways, ranging from completely flimsy, airy dresses that left little to the imagination to gauzy, figure-flaunting tops, designers have reworked sheerness so that it's rendered acceptable in just about any environment. The result? Sheer genius. Here, a few of our picks:
Evening, of course, is when breaking out your most diaphanous garments makes the most sense. When else can you get comfortably get away with something more daring than usual? Check out Caroline Hedaya's cap sleeve dress ($377.30) for a classy take on no-fuss sheer. The sheer back panel will require a backless bra, like this one by Sassybax ($78).
Integrate a bit of translucency into your everyday wardrobe is simple with this Trouve V-neck sweater ($31.90). It's ideal for layering over a solid or patterned tank - and the price is phenomenal.
Move from day to night without a second thought in an involved top, like this by Alberto Makali ($98). The intricate beadwork resembles a wide bib necklace - perfect for a glam evening - and is easily covered with a blazer for a more minimal daytime look.
Case in point: While a sheer garment of any kind might not seem like the wisest or easiest fashion choice you can make, it's simpler than ever this season. While the look was spotted in myriad variations on spring 2010 runways, ranging from completely flimsy, airy dresses that left little to the imagination to gauzy, figure-flaunting tops, designers have reworked sheerness so that it's rendered acceptable in just about any environment. The result? Sheer genius. Here, a few of our picks:
Integrate a bit of translucency into your everyday wardrobe is simple with this Trouve V-neck sweater ($31.90). It's ideal for layering over a solid or patterned tank - and the price is phenomenal.
Move from day to night without a second thought in an involved top, like this by Alberto Makali ($98). The intricate beadwork resembles a wide bib necklace - perfect for a glam evening - and is easily covered with a blazer for a more minimal daytime look.
A light, open cardigan moves nicely into spring and layers well over everything from long-sleeve tops to airy camisoles. Try this Three Dots sheer cardigan ($120) for a look that's easy, yet glam thanks to the braided trim along the opening.
Sheer doesn't just apply to clothes. Step into a pair of airy heels, like these Betsey Johnson Alexandra pumps ($174.95). They're quintessentially springy and bring a dose of lighthearted flirtatiousness to any outfit.
Combine the effortless exuberance of a bright floral print with the crepe-like airiness of sheer georgette fabric and you have a piece that's easy to wear anywhere. This Newport News tulip skirt ($29) is a fun, polished option.
Sheer doesn't just apply to clothes. Step into a pair of airy heels, like these Betsey Johnson Alexandra pumps ($174.95). They're quintessentially springy and bring a dose of lighthearted flirtatiousness to any outfit.
Combine the effortless exuberance of a bright floral print with the crepe-like airiness of sheer georgette fabric and you have a piece that's easy to wear anywhere. This Newport News tulip skirt ($29) is a fun, polished option.
