By Dylan Leavitt
Why are we showing our underwear? All of a sudden, the fashion deities encourage us to expose ourselves, pushing for comfort with our sexuality. Such a style can be seen as empowering to women; one needs a certain security with one's body image to be able to show skin. The combination of sheer fabrics and visible lingerie feigns innocence, and perhaps in a time of political change we're proud to show off our bras instead of burning them.
Since we're in Hanover and not on the catwalk in Paris, Milan or New York, we must refrain from donning the most outrageous of sheer dresses and underwear-inspired pieces shown in recent seasons (I'm looking at your collection, Alessandro Dell'Aqua). But perhaps as an acknowledgment to Carrie Bradshaw and a look toward the upcoming May release of the "Sex and the City," we could at least show some pink bra straps through a sheer blouse. Patricia Field, the costume designer for "Sex and the City," was prescient with the bra-flaunting outfits Carrie wore on the show. Of course, I'm not suggesting that you go to Collis in just a bra and shorts. Instead, the exposure for spring means sheer, layered fabrics, for a look as delicate as a cloud, and worn over undergarments to be playful and provocative at the same time.
Pulling off this look in Hanover terms is all about layering, However; I'm not about to show off frilly Betsey Johnson bras like Carrie did on "Sex and the City." Design divas aside, we can interpret such a look in a more practical way. American Apparel now has completely silly intimates, with items like their crazy-colored Lam Ruched Front Tube Bra, which can be flaunted with layering and without embarrassment. Take the bra and put a low scoop neck sweater or blouse over it. Wear the briefs with a low-rise denim pencil skirt for fun. Just beware of the lam hot shorts, unless you're looking for a night job.
It's not hard to find some way to incorporate sheer materials into an outfit. Simplistic sheaths over bright cropped pants and a structured tank a la Jil Sander offer a way for exposure to look innocent. Shiny trenches from Dries Van Noten give off a classic feel but playfully cover a brightly patterned sundress. Wearing sheer layers over wacky prints and colors lowers their volume, providing a perfect balance of playfulness and soothing subtlety: just look at how Chloe masks cow-print pants with a sheer gray dress.
These, of course, are looks that you shouldn't spend all your money on; I'm positive stores like H&M and Zara will have cheaper versions available soon. Look to designers for inspiration, not a reasonable price range. And believe me, just a little of this look goes a long way.
