Aside from the sex toys that make bedroom adventures so much fun, lingerie is the next category of sex-related items that we like to keep super secret. The same could be said about our regular underthings as well, but lingerie has an extra layer of mystique, only coming into the open when you want to look hot AF. But it's a shame, really — it's so pretty and flattering that you almost wish there was a way to wear lingerie as outerwear on a regular, daily basis.
Oh, wait, there totally is! The trend of wearing lingerie as clothing — regular clothing — is an increasingly popular way to boldly mention your unmentionables. And PinkCherry is here to enlighten you on all the ways you can bring your favorite lingerie pieces into the light of day.
General Tips for Wearing Lingerie as Outerwear
First and foremost, when wearing lingerie as clothing, you have to do so in a way that's comfortable for you. It's really a rule that should be followed with all clothing, because no matter how good you look in something, if you're not comfortable wearing it (physically and mentally), it'll most likely just collect dust in your wardrobe. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make your lingerie seamlessly blend with the rest of your outfit in a way that's appropriate for going out — and that still looks totally bomb.
1. Choose a piece with good breast padding so you're supported and don't have any awkward nipple protrusion.
2. If your favorite piece doesn't have padding, add a regular or strapless bra underneath, depending on which best complements the cut. You can also go with pasties if a bra just isn't workin' it.
3. Layer! Throw on a jacket, cardigan, kimono or other outerwear that lets you show off your lingerie's prettiness in a slightly more subtle way. You can also wear your lingerie over top of your clothes for a bold, unique look...that also keeps you warm.
Keep in mind that all of these suggestions for being comfortable while wearing lingerie as outerwear are just that: suggestions. If you want to simply throw on a pair of jeans or shorts over your favorite teddy, do it! It's all about doing what makes you feel good.
Best Lingerie for Outerwear
Some lingerie pieces are easier to style as outerwear than others. The most common and popular would be lingerie teddies or bodysuits. Teddies give you the look of a tucked in shirt when coupled with pants or a skirt, but without the constant fiddling of trying to keep everything tucked neatly. It also gives you a much sleeker silhouette than a regular tucked in shirt would.
Bodystockings also present great layering opportunities. If you simply put a skirt or pair of shorts over your bodystocking, you can achieve a cohesive "tights and tank top" kind of look that's actually all one piece. Some bodystockings can even be worn on their own, if you want to be especially daring.
While teddies and bodysuits are used most often for the lingerie as outerwear look, there are plenty of ways you can expand your horizons, too. Corsets and bustiers can offer a similar look to teddies since they're part of the same lingerie family. Bralettes make great crop tops since you have all the support you need built right in (in certain styles), so there's no need to awkwardly put a bra underneath. The sky's the limit when it comes to choosing lingerie as outerwear! That's why we're breaking down some tips for how to get started below.
Styling Lingerie as Outerwear
If you're not sure where to start, the key is to start small. Choose one piece that offers a lot of versatility and work your way up. From there, envision the kind of silhouette you want to create: something flowy and luxurious? Or tight and tough? Androgynous? Ultra-feminine? The choice is all yours! There are tons of ways to style lingerie as outerwear, but we'd be lying if we said we didn't have a few favorites. Try a few as you get started on your journey to wear lingerie as clothing!
Under a Jacket
An ultra-stylish way to wear lingerie as outerwear is to couple it with a great jacket. A denim jacket, leather jacket, bomber jacket, puffy jacket, you name it! Teddies and corsets look great for this style, which usually involves combining the jacket with pants, shorts or skirts. There are so many possibilities depending on the pieces you choose to layer with, from casual to dressy and from femme to grunge. You could rock it every day of the week by just switching out the top layers!
Under Something Sheer
One bold and flowy look is to wear a teddy or bodysuit beneath a sheer dress. You could also put a bra or bralette underneath a contrasting lacy or sheer blouse to display your favorite colorful pieces.
Over a Blouse
Another head-turning fashion statement is to wear a corset or bustier over top of a blouse. This essentially turns the corset into an oversized belt, giving you a sleek silhouette while wearing an otherwise flowy or oversized blouse. It's the perfect blend of sultry and subdued.
Wrap it Up
Similar to the jacket style, wearing a corset or bodysuit beneath a wrap or kimono is a fashionable way to make a statement with lingerie as clothing. Or, do you have a lingerie robe or puffer that you usually only use for style around the house? Take it outside by pairing it with some tights or straight leg jeans and you have a pretty and unique outfit.
Expand Your Wardrobe with Lingerie from PinkCherry
Ready to hop on the lingerie as outerwear bandwagon? Heck yes you are! But if you don't have any lingerie to suit the styles you want to try, you won't have a hard time fixing the problem. PinkCherry has a wide selection of lingerie teddies, corsets, stockings and more to give you all the inspiration, and fashion, you need. Find your new fave today.