The Try On #2: Under where?
Patchwork bloomers, vivid slips and a botanical corset.
In a time of overstimulation, the philosophy of “less is more” has become adopted in many different ways. For fashion, it may mean calmer neutrals and less layering. Or: it can mean stripping away the layers all-together and bringing forward what’s beneath.
That’s to say, the lingerie-as-clothing trend has come alive again. And it has gripped this generation the same way it has previous ones, with everything from embracing sheer, translucent patterns to incorporating bodice designs in everyday outfits.
The allure for this trend is nothing new, as we’ve seen pieces inspired by sleepwear and undergarments in many ways, whether it’s John Galliano showing off disheveled corset gowns in the ‘90s or just recently Kristen Stewart wearing a mint-green Chanel chemise set on the red carpet. Overall, these hidden garments, have become anything but.
Whether you’re curious about this reoccurring trend as a form of allure, comfort or both, here’s three items that capture the lingerie-inspired style.
The TRY ON is a monthly edition of The Changing Room newsletter where I explore trends and aesthetics through a list of curated items sitting in my wishlist.
Similar to why the undergarment was originally popularized back during the 1800s, bloomers provide the comfort and liberation of mobility, while still showing off a feminine presence that matches that of a fluttery mini skirt.
While the classic, frilly silhouette of bloomers (which you can find overflowing on Etsy) are being styled up as bike short replacements, we’re also seeing countless reiterated versions of the classic under short. These colorful, floral bloomers from the designer Zepherina, which are made partially from up cycled towel material, give an ode to the traditional bloomer with its ruffled hem, but have a more contemporary silhouette and patchwork-style design.
2. Slippery Slopes
A silk slip dress can indicate many things; allure, decadence, the ideal throw-on piece for lounging in a boudoir. But now, the slip dress is having a moment outside of the bedroom, as it’s been gracefully promoted from undergarment to the new every-day dress.
The online vintage store Moth Ball Memoirs has a slip dress that combines all the reasons why this garment has become so beloved. With an effortless mini-dress silhouette and romantic lace trim, the dress is also hand dyed in a vivid key lime green that makes it appropriate for anything but bed time.
3. A Prance Through The Garden
I think we can call it. The corset is here to stay. From the ever-iconic designs of Vivienne Westwood, to cottage-core inspired outfits on TikTok, the re-imagining of this undergarment has proved that it’s not going to stay hidden underneath, well, anything anymore.
These handmade corsets made by Retro Fairy have the perfect accentuating structure that is vintage-inspired but has a refined design that makes it fit perfectly into 2021. The delicate color way — a pastel lilac and electric yellow — modernizes it even more, but the lace-up design in the back (which can also be switched to the front) still has the flare of drama needed for running through a foggy field.