A great way to figure out if a trend is for you or not is by creating a dedicated style inspiration mood board for that specific item. I recently did this for sheer dresses (and for festivals I'll never attend!) to explore how to incorporate this trending piece into my wardrobe.
A style inspiration mood board is more than just a collection of ideas—it's a powerful tool for visualising how a trend might fit into your existing wardrobe. It will help you determine whether the trend complements your personal style or if it will end up feeling out of place.
The process of creating a mood board also gives you a chance to experiment with different looks before you commit to buying into a trend. You can explore various styling options, see how the trend can be adapted to your taste, and even discover new ways to style pieces you already own.
My style guides will help you find new ways to style your old clothes based on the current fashion trends. The focus is on outfit inspiration that works for real people—not models on runways or influencers on social media. These style guides are designed to provide you with practical ways to incorporate the latest trends into your everyday wardrobe in a way that’s true to your personal style.
How to Style a Sheer Dress
From the flapper dresses of the 1920s to the grunge revival of the 1990s, sheer fabrics have been a recurring element in fashion for decades. Like all trends, sheer dresses regularly come back in style, each time with a fresh iteration that reflects the current fashion.
These dresses are surprisingly versatile, offering the potential to be as elegant and sophisticated as they are edgy and rebellious. However, styling a sheer dress can be intimidating, especially if your wardrobe doesn't naturally lend itself to the ways these dresses are typically worn.
This is how to wear a sheer dress.
Fit and Silhouette
Sheer dresses come in a variety of styles, from body-hugging silhouettes that accentuate your curves to loose, flowy cuts that offer a more relaxed and ethereal feel. The key is to choose a sheer dress that not only suits your body shape but also resonates with your personal style and comfort level.
For instance, a sheer bodycon dress is an ideal choice for those who want to emphasize their figure, as it creates a sleek, sexy look. While an oversized sheer dress offers a more laid-back, romantic vibe, perfectly for those who prefer a softer, more graceful style.
The fit of your sheer dress should offer a level of modesty that makes you feel comfortable and confident. A sheer dress with less coverage can be a bold fashion statement, especially when paired with carefully chosen undergarments or a slip. If you prefer more coverage, consider options with built-in linings or layer the dress with other garments to provide the coverage you need.
Layering
One of the easiest ways to style a sheer dress is by layering it with other garments.
For those who prefer a subtle approach, a sheer dress can be paired with a slip dress, bodysuit, or even just well-chosen undergarments. If you want to add an element of sophistication without covering up too much of the dress itself, try layering with a longline blazer or a smart jacket. This combination not only elevates the outfit but also allows the sheer dress to remain the focal point.
If you’re leaning towards a more modest or casual look, consider pairing your sheer dress with an oversized t-shirt, a slip dress, high-waisted jeans, or bike shorts and a bralette. These options not only provide additional coverage but also create a laid-back, stylish look that’s perfect for everyday wear.
When it comes to undergarments, choose pieces that either complement or contrast with the colour and style of your sheer dress. Nude tones are ideal for a sophisticated, seamless appearance, while contrasting colours can make a bold, maximalist statement.
Colour and Patterns
Sheer dresses aren't limited to classic black or neutral shades—playing with colours and patterns can help you tailor this trend to your personal style. Whether you prefer a striking contrast or monochromatic palette, experimenting with colours and patterns will enable you to make this trend yours.
When pairing colours and patterns with a sheer dress, it’s crucial to consider how the sheer fabric interacts with the layers underneath. The beauty of sheer fabric is its transparency, which allows the underlying layers to either subtly peek through or boldly stand out, depending on your styling choices.
For example, layering a sheer dress over a bright underlayer in a contrasting colour can create a dramatic, eye-catching effect, highlighting both the sheer overlay and the vibrant base. Alternatively, a sheer dress with intricate embroidery or lace can become the focal point of your outfit when paired with a simple, solid-coloured underlayer.
On the other hand, a monochromatic outfit with minimal patterns or vivid colours—such as a sheer dress worn over a matching slip or bodysuit—will result in a harmonious look with a sleek and polished appearance.
Textures and Fabrics
Sheer dresses are a great opportunity to play with textures and fabrics to create a more interesting and personalised look. When layering, think about how different fabrics can complement or contrast with each other to elevate your outfit.
Whether you have an all-black wardrobe or more colourful style, sheer dresses are versatile enough to suit any style. Mixing different fabrics and textures will help you to lean into certain aesthetics. For instance, layering a sheer dress with a satin slip can achieve a soft, romantic look. While pairing sheer fabric with more structured materials, such as denim or leather, can create an edgy style.
Incorporating various textures and fabrics when styling a sheer dress will not only make an outfit more visually interesting but it will allow you to integrate this trend into your existing wardrobe more easily.
Accessories
Accessories can make or break any outfit, and a styling a sheer dress is no exception. The key to styling a sheer dress with accessories lies in finding the right balance—choosing pieces that complement your dress without overpowering it, while also aligning with the overall look you’re aiming to achieve.
Jewellery plays a particularly important role in styling a sheer dress. Your choice between bold statement designs or more subtle minimal pieces can significantly influence your outfit's final style. Opting for delicate, minimal jewellery will allow a sheer dress to shine without overwhelming the look. While statement jewellery will add a dramatic flair that will transform your outfit into a maximalist dream.
Choosing the right necklace length to complement the neckline of your dress is crucial. For high necklines, consider skipping the necklace entirely and focusing on other accessories like statement earrings or stacking rings to add interest without cluttering the look. If your dress features a plunging neckline, layered chains or a longer necklace will highlight the neckline, without distracting from the dress itself.