Summer Trends 2025: The Defining Trend of Lingerie as Outerwear.
Once considered a hidden layer, lingerie has evolved into a bold fashion statement, dominating the Spring/Summer 2025 runways. From structured corsetry to delicate lace bars peeking through tailored jackets, designers are embracing the art of dressing undressing—blurring the lines between intimate apparel and high fashion.
The Evolution of Lingerie in Fashion
Lingerie’s transition from undergarment to fashion centrepiece is no accident—it’s a movement rooted in decades of style rebellion. The shift toward lingerie as outerwear can be traced back to Jean Paul Gaultier and Dolce & Gabbana, who transformed corsets and slip dresses into iconic fashion staples. Gaultier’s infamous Madonna cone bra and Dolce & Gabbana’s structured bustiers made way for an era where sensuality met sophistication. What was once reserved for boudoirs became a powerful expression of confidence, a look that transcended traditional definitions of modesty and femininity.
Fast forward to 2025, and lingerie is no longer just an accent—it’s the centrepiece of many collections. Designers are showcasing bras as statement pieces, sheer slip dresses as eveningwear, and corsetry as structured power dressing.
The Runway Takeover
This season, Balenciaga took the trend to its extreme, presenting a collection that blurred the boundaries between ready-to-wear and intimate apparel. The runway resembled a lingerie showcase, making audiences question whether they were watching a fashion show or a Bordelle Lingerie presentation.
Meanwhile, Nensi Dojaka, the Albanian-born Central Saint Martins graduate, continued her reign as the one to watch at London Fashion Week, with designs that seamlessly fuse lingerie aesthetics into everyday wear. Her signature delicate straps and sheer fabrics redefine modern femininity.
At Gucci, under the creative direction of Sabato De Sarno, the logo bra subtly peeking under structured jackets became a must-have item for the season. Miu Miu, a longtime advocate of lingerie-inspired fashion, showcased micro bras and logo underwear, reminiscent of the iconic Calvin Klein campaigns that once revolutionised the industry.
Even Chanel embraced the trend, pairing bras with matching skirts and jackets, proving that lingerie can be both sophisticated and daring. Meanwhile, Casablanca took a playful approach, introducing nipple crochet covers, adding a whimsical touch to the trend.
The Cannes Controversy
Despite lingerie’s dominance on the runway, the Cannes Film Festival 2025 imposed a strict dress code, banning nudity and visible lingerie. This posed a challenge for celebrity stylists, as many couture collections heavily featured lingerie-inspired designs. Even Saudi couturier Ashi Studio, known for its ethereal creations, incorporated lingerie elements into its runway looks.
The Street Style Impact
Beyond the runway, lingerie is making waves in street style, proving that dressing undressing is more than just a fleeting trend. Layering delicate lace bralettes under oversized blazers, pairing corsets with denim, or styling sheer slip dresses with chunky boots; fashion lovers are embracing the sensual-meets-structured aesthetic.
As Summer 2025 unfolds, lingerie remains a symbol of empowerment, artistry, and self expression. Whether worn subtly or as a statement piece, one thing is clear; lingerie is no longer meant to be hidden.