12 Sheer Outfit Ideas for Peak Summer Style

We’ll be transparent: The sheer clothing trend is taking up prime real estate in our mood boards and our minds this season. It’s no secret that mesh ballet flats have been enjoying their time in the sun, and in a similar fashion, we’re seeing a gravitation to all things translucent across categories. From sheer tank tops to mesh detailing to unexpected peekaboo moments, countless A-listers, designers, and content creators are illustrating that it’s all possible. On the runway in recent seasons, sheer fabrics have been one of the biggest trends, spotted in creative new designs as well as on celebrity attendees. Ahead, we explore 12 sheer outfit ideas to take for a spin this season, complete with on-trend product picks to match.

A Lace Moment

Mesh and open-weave fabrics aren’t for the faint of heart, but we’ll let you in on a secret for pulling them off. Try incorporating sheer fabrics in a way that feels organic to your wardrobe, as Abby Bible demonstrates with this dreamy ensemble. Accessories—like rosettes or bow appliqués—are a low-lift way to lean into the romantic vibe, too.

Streamlined Basics

It’s tough to beat the classics, and the tried-and-true outfit formula of a tank and jeans gets a modern twist thanks to a luxe sheer fabric. Dark wash, wide leg trousers feel especially polished when paired with pointed-toe slingbacks, and the best part? There’s major opportunity for transitioning this look into the autumn months.

Vacay Vibes

When the temps hit their peak, it’s hard to think about wearing anything but breezy, breathable pieces. This resort-ready look is equal parts modern and timeless: By combining a flowy tie blouse with a solid bralette (or bikini top) and athletic skirt, you can trust you’re covered for wherever the summer takes you.

Sparkling Details

A sheer ensemble ups the ante for an even more high-glam look, and these sparkling mesh pieces fit the bill. Consider layering a chainmail-inspired sheer knit over micro shorts and a coordinating bra, or toss this glam set over your swimsuit while heading to an after-beach happy hour.

Sheer Whimsy

Quirky appliqués are out to play: Upgrade a standard, long-sleeved mesh blouse by selecting a version with expressive, colorful patterns. Keep the rest of the look low-key in all black with a coordinating bralette and polished faux leather shorts.

Out of Office

The office siren is OOO for the summer—and we’re so into Zoe Saldaña’s after-hours take on a classic pencil silhouette. Keep things unexpected by pairing a semi-sheer skirt with a plunge neckline top and an oversized blazer.

Sheer and Sequined

This bedazzled set is nothing short of stunning on Florence Pugh—and stands as a prime example of the sheer trend’s versatility. For a toned-down, versatile take on the above statement, try seamless nipple covers or a supportive sticky bra that matches your skin tone. This coverage provides a bit more modest (and wearable) quality to the look, without compromising the overall vision.

Sheer Envy

Charli XCX pulls together futuristic, dance floor looks like no other—and luckily, this outfit is easy to replicate with a lightweight summer dress and thin cashmere layering top. This ensemble will have you embracing Brat summer as the girl in the “sheer white dress,” just like in the hyperpop icon’s song “Mean Girls.”

Laid-Back Mesh

New to the world of sheer fabrics? Try blending your go-to summer pieces with subtle sheer paneling, as Adut Akech Bior demonstrates here. A sweet flyaway tank contrasts against a worn-in pair of dad jorts, while heeled sandals in a sweet powder blue shade bring it full circle.

Play Up the Contrast

This playful combo strikes the right balance between high-fashion fabrics and on-trend aesthetics. It’s all topped off with a neon crochet bucket hat, a pair of Crocs (which we can’t help but love to hate), and a touch of tongue-in-cheek charm. 

All in the Details

Looking forward to an all-out event on your cal? This sultry (and quite charming) corset gown brings an ethereal quality to the sheer clothing trend. Accompany the romantic centerpiece with a vivid rainbow crystal necklace and coordinating bold drop earrings.

Short and Sweet

Sabrina Carpenter might’ve selected a pint-sized Victoria’s Secret archival slip for this vintage look, but if you’re looking for something slightly easier to wear out and about, you might opt for a mid-length style. Either way, this translucent fabric provides the ideal opportunity for showing off a peek of a dainty balconette bra or embroidered bralette.