Lingerie as Outerwear: How to Style Intimates for Effortless Elegance

The art of wearing underwear as outerwear has never been more captivating, or more empowering. Once a daring runway statement, the underwear-as-outerwear trend has gracefully slipped into our everyday wardrobes, blurring the lines between intimacy and expression.

From delicate lace bralettes paired with structured blazers to satin slip dresses that effortlessly transition from day to night, this lingerie trend is a celebration of confidence, craftsmanship, and comfort.

And if there’s any brand leading this chic revolution, it’s Gooseberry Intimates. Born in Bali and rooted in sustainable, fair trade craftsmanship, our lingerie and clothing collections are designed for women who dare to feel both elegant and bold, every single day.

Long before social feeds and TikTok, icons made wearing underwear as outerwear a cultural conversation. From Madonna’s iconic cone bra (yes. the one designed by Jean Paul Gaultier) on the Blond Ambition Tour, to visionary designer lineages —Thierry Mugler, Gucci, Vivienne Westwood, Issey Miyake—the fashion industry has repeatedly invited the undergarment to reveal itself. What began as youth rebellion and Hollywood spectacle has transformed into a movement rooted in empowerment and expression.

Here's how this lingerie trend all began, and how it's going:

• 1990s – youth rebellion - The ‘90s fused pop spectacle with street style, letting slips, corset seams, and camis migrate from backstage to the front row. That 1990s energy still informs today’s sartorial play.

• 1980s & earlier – silhouette to statement - Power shapes of the 1980s and even earlier eras (hello, historical codpieces and the 1950s bullet silhouette) show how a garment can frame and reveal with intention.

• Post-pandemic – comfort first - A post-pandemic mindset prefers softness with polish: lounge-friendly layers that still read bold and chic out in the world. The mood since 2022 and 2023? Emotional dressing—inclusive, expressive, and wearable.

Today, wearing underwear as outerwear isn’t just about being bold, it’s about celebrating yourself. It’s about turning your lingerie drawer into a wardrobe of possibility. 

Styling lingerie as outerwear is all about balance—sensuality meets sophistication. Gooseberry’s timeless silhouettes, from lace bodysuits to soft bralettes, are crafted to make you feel both fabulous and effortlessly put-together. 

The key? Confidence, proportion, and texture. Start with one intimate (bralette, bodysuit, slip dress), add grounding pieces (jean, tailored skirt, crisp shirt, or sharp jacket), then layer to taste. Keep the mix delicate yet bold.

There’s something irresistibly chic about a lace bodysuit worn as a top. Gooseberry Intimates' bodysuits, such as the Mon Cheri bodysuit, bring a delicate yet bold energy to any outfit. Here's how you can create this look:

• Jeans + lace bodysuit – high-waisted and tailored, this combo balances delicate texture with ease.
  

• With blazers -  Slip under a jacket or cardigan to add structure. The layer tempers the romance while keeping the look bold. The intricate lace adds dimension, while the structured cut offers polish and style.
  

• With skirts (satin or bias) - A slip skirt + lace bodysuit is a way to make minimalism feel special, from coffee runs to cocktails.

Layer it under a tailored jacket or cardigan for a look that’s equal parts poised and playful. The intricate lace adds dimension, while the structured cut offers polish and style.

A bralette is a must-have lingerie essential for a reason; it’s perfect for outerwear. Layer a bralette under a blazer or semi-sheer shirt is the perfect way to channel that naturally sexy vibe without going overboard. The secret lies in the contrast, delicate fabrics paired with sharp tailoring. Think of it as power dressing with a wink.

Try layering one of Gooseberry Intimates' sexy bras beneath a linen blazer for summer, or beneath a silky blouse for evening drinks. The peek of lace feels polished, not provocative. It's proof that lingerie can be both bold and beautifully refined.

Ah, the slip dress, that timeless icon of the underwear-as-outerwear trend. Gooseberry Intimates' dresses, like the Manhattan Slip Dress Ivory, are the ultimate expression of chic elegance. Crafted from satin or silk with lace-trimmed details, they’re lightweight enough for a tropical morning coffee yet sultry enough for a candlelit dinner.

Here's what you can try:

• Day layer (turtleneck or tee) - A slip dress over a thin knit or t-shirt brings warmth and depth. The layered looks keep it practical and chic.

• Night switch - Remove the base layer, add a heel, and swipe on a bold lipstick color. Same dress, different mood — wearing underwear as outerwear made easy.

• Outerwear (oversized jacket) - An oversized jacket (trench, leather moto) frames the slip’s silhouette while holding onto that delicate sheen.

Wearing a corset adds instant definition and attitude.  It’s a way to make any outfit feel tailored. Think of this combo as architectural, not costume; use it to sculpt your body, not squeeze it.

Try these options:

• Over a crisp shirt – A sleek corset over a poplin button-down creates smart contrast and a snatched waist, smart for dinner or the gallery. 

• Under blazer – Wear under a blazer for invisible support and flawless posture that refines your outfit in photos and IRL.

• With denim or wide-leg trousers - Balance fitted structure up top with relaxed volume below.

And of course, make sure to look for flexible boning, adjustable closures, and breathable linings. Think of these combos as a wink to Madonna’s daring 1990s spirit—only this time, it’s more inclusive, more sustainable, and infinitely more comfortable. 

Layering lingerie doesn’t mean hiding it—it’s about styling it thoughtfully. The secret lies in textures, tones, and the confidence to own your look.

Pairing delicate fabrics with tougher textures is what gives underwear-as-outerwear its irresistible charm. As they say, “opposites attract”. A satin bodysuit beneath a chunky knit cardigan. A lace bralette peeking through beneath a leather jacket. It’s that unexpected contrast that makes heads turn.

The balance between soft and structured materials transforms your lingerie into an elevated wardrobe essential. Bonus? It’s incredibly comfortable, and that’s the real luxury.

When wearing underwear as outerwear, proportions are everything. Take note of these tips:

• Fitted + volume – Trim top (bodysuit or bra) + wide-leg jean or flowing skirt keeps the eye moving and the silhouette balanced.

• Oversized + slim – An oversized blazer or jacket + slip dress gives off a nonchalant elegance that you can flaunt from 9 a.m. to late.

• Monochrome or contrast - Head-to-toe ivory elongates, while black-on-black is instantly chic. Applying contrast brings runway energy.

Layering your lingerie this way highlights your silhouette without revealing too much. It’s about confidence, not exposure, proving that sensuality and sophistication can, in fact, go hand-in-hand.

What makes this trend so irresistible is its versatility. With the right layers, your Gooseberry Intimates' sexy lingerie can transition seamlessly from a casual brunch to a candlelit evening.

For work hours, style a lace bodysuit or bralette beneath a crisp shirt or blazer. It’s a subtle tribute to the underwear-as-outerwear trend —polished, not provocative. Pair with tailored jeans or high-waisted skirts, and you’ve struck the perfect balance between professional and playful.

Once the sun sets, shed the layers, swap your flats for heels, and add a touch of shine. A bodysuit transforms with statement jewelry or a bold lip; a slip dress glows under dim lights. It’s the same outfit, just reimagined, proof that lingerie can be as versatile as it is empowering.

Every piece of Gooseberry lingerie tells a story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and confidence. Hand-cut lace, locally dyed fabrics, and ethically sewn silhouettes come together to create garments that feel as good as they look.

From the runway to your living room, Gooseberry Intimates celebrates the spirit of women who aren’t afraid to dare, to blur the lines between intimates and outerwear, between comfort and couture.

So whether you’re browsing for our sexy lingerie, chic bodysuits, elegant dresses, or thoughtful lingerie gifts, remember: this isn’t just a trend—it’s a statement of self-love.