Sheer magic

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Kristen Stewart in a black lace Zuhair Murad floral dress

Looks like fashion is revelling in sheer delight! As sensuality takes a ‘dare to bare’ plunge, this summer marks the return of the sheer style like never before.

The global stage has Emilio Pucci creating an eye-catching combination of sheer and baroque embellishment, Donna Karan bringing a subdued and classic version in dark shades, Felder Felder relying on leopard prints and stylish undergarments to create a sexy little fashion story, while Christopher Kane threw caution to the winds with a sheer body-hugging silhouette in a shorter version.
Flaunting this look primarily begins with a lace, perhaps a Chantilly or broderie, anglaise. The other favourable option ia a bold mesh playing hide and seek.
Designer Rajdeep Ranawat believes the devil is in the details. “Tulle, nets, chiffon and organza are trending high on the sheer front. The transparency of this style needs to be balanced with an opaque touch. Ombre dyeing and stylish patch work adds to the options. A strategic mix and match of sheer textures with solid silks and cotton weaves gets a welcome nod too,” he says.
Ace fashion designer Sonam Dubal pronounces few salient features before you step out in something sheer: “The sheer look is very tricky as it is about wearing an interesting inner chemise or even a lacy or sequinned camisole with a georgette or organza shirt that’s plainer, preferably in a darker tone. It has to work in combination as the outer shirt also has to be an interesting textile with some kind of texture or embroidery. Essentially an evening wear, please make sure it has an airy look instead of a body-hugging one.”
A delicate balance is vital for a style adventure of this nature. He lists a few relevant points: “Confidence is the key word here. Remember, your comfort and confidence can make a difference for the better. Avoid being self-conscious as it can be a major spoiler. I presume one would have to have a proportionate body to carry off such a look, and so do not wear a tight shirt with a chemise that would only highlight one’s body unnecessarily. Opt for the darker colours and avoid bright ones unless you have a great body to show off.”
Designer Agnimitra Paul is happy to follow the trend that’s widely patronised by actors Kristen Stewart and Nicole Kidman. “There is a place and time to wear a see-through creation. Keep it reserved for a night out. X-ray fabric doesn’t exactly mean ‘a license to bare’, rather utilise it to flaunt your assets while camouflaging the rest — for instance, sheer tops with opaque bottoms, or specific sections like a sheer midriff, sheer sleeves, back, necklines and hems. For more variety let sheer flow from the lower half of the trouser or use it as layers. You can also take the middle path by going transluscent, complemented with a classy lingerie. Keep the mystery element alive but do a decent job.”