The hottest accessory trend this summer isn’t a designer bag or shoes, it’s underwear. Visible underwear lines are now considered a must-have fashion statement, with celebrities and fashion influencers embracing the trend. This resurgence of visible undergarments has its roots in hip-hop culture and Y2K fashion, bringing back the ’90s era “whale tail” look where thongs are boldly shown above waistbands.
Celebrities like Katy Perry, Dua Lipa, Sydney Sweeney, and Hailey Bieber have been seen sporting variations of visible undergarments in their outfits. From backside-baring gowns to cheeky undergarments beneath sheer frocks, the trend is being embraced by A-listers and style icons. Musicians like Charli XCX and Billie Eilish have also showcased their underwear in recent social media posts and music videos, further popularizing the trend.
Costume designer Eric Daman describes the resurgence of visible underwear as “subversive” and a way to challenge societal norms. The trend is seen as a strong yet subtle way to show independence, rebellion, and self-possession. Designers like Miu Miu and Gucci featured underwear as outerwear in their fall/winter 2023 collections, further cementing the trend as a fashion statement to watch.
The trend of visible underwear is not entirely new, harkening back to the ’80s Calvin Klein ad campaigns with Mark Wahlberg and Kate Moss. However, the current resurgence is more daring and bold, with a mix of gender-fluid fashion choices. Professor Shaun Cole notes that traditionally men’s underwear is now being worn by cisgendered women and those who are more fluid in their gender and sexuality, pushing boundaries and challenging norms.
The fashion trend follows last year’s trend of peekaboo bras, with the fashion industry declaring that “boobs are back.” Gen Z women are taking the trend a step further by embracing a stripped-down version of the style, wearing only lingerie in a true “naked fashion” way. Designer Audrey Steen points out the trend’s power and sexuality, creating a sense of empowerment with a “look but can’t touch” attitude.
Overall, the trend of visible underwear as a fashion statement is gaining momentum, with celebrities, designers, and influencers all embracing the bold and daring style. This resurgence, with its roots in ’90s fashion and hip-hop culture, challenges norms and pushes boundaries in the fashion industry. By showcasing underwear as outerwear and incorporating traditionally men’s underwear into fashion choices, the trend represents a shift towards more inclusive and diverse fashion statements.
