There's an unspoken rule about wearing sheer clothes to the office — you don't. That's not going to stop fashion girls (aka us) from taking on the challenge, however. We see it as an opportunity to test out our best styling hacks and tricks [1]. All you need is a bit of creativity!
After analyzing various street style outfits and giving the naked dress a spin IRL [2], we found 16 easy ways to pull off the sheer look at work. Ahead, the different yet wearable outfits will give your 9-to-5 looks a stylish upgrade. Whether you work in a creative environment or in a corporate setting, you'll want to incorporate some sheer pieces into your weekly wardrobe. We even provided shopping selections to get you started.
Stick to Sheer Sleeves
It's an easy and subtle way to rock the trend without showing too much.
Pay Attention to Details
A ruffled design on the front of your sheer shirt can actually provide decent coverage because it fills in the empty space. For an even more protected feel, layer over a bomber jacket.
Go Sheer at the Bottom
A sheer panel, whether it's at the knees or on the hem of a skirt, is a safe way to show skin while still being covered.
Layer on a Long Trench
Wear your sheer skirt with an equally long duster coat or trench to cover up parts you don't want exposed from behind.
Look For Printed Tops
Prints such as large, dark florals camouflage a top's see-through qualities.
Go Sheer at the Shoulders
Show skin only on the areas you're comfortable with. This top with a sheer-lace overlay at the shoulders and neckline area is a happy marriage of the trend.
Wear a Bodysuit Underneath
The great thing about a see-through top is you can show off what's underneath. Bralettes aren't exactly office appropriate, so opt for a bodysuit that provides more coverage.
Wear a Mesh Lace Dress
A mesh lace dress is your one-and-done trick to pulling off this style. It's modest yet revealing in all the right areas (below the knees and above the chest).
Suit It Up
You don't see lace pantsuits often, but this particular outfit works because of the blazer and lace material on the pants. You're practically covered from all sides, save for some skin at the bottom.
Try a Tiered Tulle Skirt
You can hardly tell this skirt is sheer thanks to tiered pleats. The design creates the illusion of a solid piece, though if you're still worried about baring it all, wear a matching slip underneath.
Cover Up With a Blazer
Wear a blazer over any outfit and it suddenly looks more appropriate for meetings. Negin Mirsalehi had the right idea pairing her beige nude top with a structured black blazer.
Match Your Bra to Your Top
Evangelie Smyrniotaki strategically chose a bra to match the color of her lace shirt so it's not as risqué.
Opt For High-Neck Styles
The attention will draw the eyes upward to your face instead of to your chest.
Wear a Camisole Underneath
That thin cami will come in handy for any type of sheer top. Gilda Ambrosio styled one under her white Victorian-inspired blouse.
Try Transparent Outerwear
Solange Knowles gave the sheer style her own spin with a transparent trench at the Creatures of Comfort show.
Wear the Sheer Top Under a Dress
Take a cue from Sofie Valkiers and wear your favorite slip dress or even jumpsuit over your sheer top. This simple but genius idea will surprise your co-workers.
