The “Peek-a-Bra†Trend: From Catwalks to Closets,a Bold New Statement
Table of Contents
The barely-there bra is no longer relegated to the bedroom. This year, the fashion world has embraced a bolder approach to lingerie as outerwear, with designers and celebrities alike showcasing the “peek-a-bra†trend — a subtle yet striking reveal of undergarments.
This isn’t a fully new phenomenon, but its resurgence has been undeniable. Collections from Miu Miu and Dolce & Gabbana signaled the shift, predicting that bras would become a central fashion conversation, and the trend quickly gained momentum with high-profile endorsements.
A Designer’s Vision: Dolce & Gabbana and Miu Miu Lead the Charge
Dolce & Gabbana’s autumn and winter collection featured luxurious lace bras intentionally peeking out from under shaggy fur coats and sheer dresses. The Italian brand presented a confident, almost defiant aesthetic, celebrating the bra as a design element in its own right. In contrast, Miu Miu opted for a more understated approach, subtly revealing bra straps or edges beneath tailored skirt suits and dresses.
This nuanced approach gave rise to the “Peek-a-Bra†dress — garments designed with a deliberate glimpse of the bra as a key feature. The style quickly became a red carpet favorite,embraced by a growing number of celebrities.
“Did you know?†— The strategic placement of visible bra elements can alter the perceived silhouette, creating a more defined waist or emphasizing the bustline.
Celebrity Endorsements Fuel the Trend
Selena Gomez was among the first to champion the look, stunning in a navy blue velvet gown by Alaïa at the 4th annual Academy Museum Gala late last year. The dress’s dramatic neckline showcased a black corset underneath, creating a captivating silhouette. She continued this aesthetic at the February BAFTA awards, choosing a Haute Couture model from Schiaparelli with a black velvet balconette neckline.
Kate Hudson further solidified the trend at the Paris premiere of Song Sung blue, wearing a champagne-hued satin Dolce & Gabbana dress featuring an integrated bra within the corset. The design elegantly accentuated her figure, adding a touch of sophistication to the ensemble.
“Pro tip:†— Experiment with different bra styles – lace, satin, or even a pop of colour – to create varying levels of visibility and impact.
From Red Carpet to real Way: Embracing the Trend
The “peek-a-boo†underwear trend has extended beyond the exclusive realms of runways and red carpets, appearing on city streets. Actress Margot Robbie was spotted in New York wearing a gray pantsuit with a discreet bra visible underneath. While perhaps not an everyday look for everyone,it offers a compelling option for those seeking to make a statement during the party season.
Stylists suggest pairing a lace bra with a clear black top, an oversized jacket, and elegant trousers or a sheath skirt for a guaranteed head-turning outfit. however, the trend remains firmly positioned as something “only for the brave.â€
“Reader question:†— “I’m self-conscious about showing too much skin. How can I participate in this trend without feeling exposed?” Answer: Opt for sheer layers or strategically placed outerwear to offer a glimpse rather than a full reveal. A high neckline or structured jacket can balance the look.
A Nineties Revival
The exposed bra isn’t entirely new; it experienced a surge in popularity during the 1990s, largely thanks to Madonna’s iconic collaborations with Jean Paul Gaultier. Gaultier’s designs for Madonna’s Blond Ambition tour, featuring pointed-breast corsets, were particularly influential. Similarly, Princess Diana’s satin slip dress, worn to the Met Gala in 1996, has become a timeless symbol of the era and continues to inspire contemporary fashion. This enduring style demonstrates the cyclical nature of trends and the lasting impact of iconic fashion moments.
