When Innerwear Goes Outerwear: Summer Lingerie to Expose

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Today's guest post is by Julia Blaire Klein, who's had a self-described passion for lingerie all her life. Julia sees finding the perfect lingerie for women as another way of helping women (a statement we completely agree with here at TLA), and hopes to work in the lingerie industry for years to come.

Before I even begin this article, I would like to clarify that I am in no way insisting that you should wear lingerie by itself as an ensemble to work, on a date night, or anywhere else. But --- when done well --- there are certain pieces that you can rock as outerwear, without anyone ever knowing your secret (unless you want them to know, of course). After all, warmer weather often means less clothing.

Recall from Spring/Summer 2014 Lingerie Fashion Week, we saw intricately detailed chemises from Rococo Dessous, colorful bodysuits from NOE Undergarments, and brassieres from Bradelis that radiated sweet innocence. While you can easily tell what a bra and panty are for, there were times where I caught myself wondering; couldn’t I wear that piece as outerwear? Bralettes, bodysuits, and chemises of all styles and colors are ideal to give your summer style a unique twist.

Let’s start with a go-to innerwear as outwear piece: the bralette. If you’re going to show off your chest and neckline, why not accentuate your back too? Cosabella’s Never Say Never Racie Racer Back Bra makes shoulders look sultry. Some women even find that racer back bras give them more support...although I’ll leave that for you to decide. Wear this under a sheer top or a low-cut cropped tee.

This next item is Mimi Holliday's 'Dotty' lace bodysuit. With fully lined cups and a plunging neckline, all you need are a pair of high-waisted shorts to complete the look. Throw on shrug if your tastes tend to be more conservative --- or if you're just cold.

All hail beautiful chemises that can double as short dresses. Stella McCartney's 'Cherie Sneezing' chemise has a vintage-feel. And bright colors for spring are a must ( although I think that goes without saying). The pin tuck panels on the front are a beautiful detail. All you need is a slip underneath, and then you can dress it down or dress it up whichever way you like.

Camis and tank tops are a dime a dozen come summertime, so if you’re looking for something sexy that still covers you up, a keyhole cami from Hanky Panky could be for you. It's fitted at the waist and flares slightly at the hips. Wear it with jeans or your favorite work pants, but keep in mind you will need to wear something underneath. I mean, just look at the keyhole --- it’s downright adorable.

No matter which style you choose, just remember that with any lingerie, it’s all about what makes you feel confident about yourself. Each person’s styles is unique and these pieces can be as unique as you are. So dig through your favorite lingerie brands to find what fits your flair.

What do you think of innerwear as outwear? Would you rock any of these lingerie pieces in your daily ensembles?