At first thought, wearing a bra as a top sounds like a reprehensible fashion crime – something you’re likely only to see on the most attention-seeking popstar at a music awards show. However, despite first impressions, this sultry trend is uniquely chic. When worn properly and discreetly, this is less overt and surprisingly elegant.

The key is to style it as part of a specific ensemble, with a shirt loosely buttoned, a wrap top falling open or a blazer with the top button undone. This is not a total exposure scenario.

Take style notes from the celebrities above and work with the shopping equations below. It might just be your new look.

The lacy Pastels

For a long lunch or a stylish event, a pop of pastel from beneath a broderie shirt is pretty personified. Wear unbuttoned to half way down.

Zara ‘Ramie’ shirt, $99 SHOP NOW
Yasmine Eslami ‘Jeanne’ bra, $114 from Net-A-Porter SHOP NOW

Black on black

A racy lacy under a sharp velvet blazer is incredibly sleek. The perfect pairing of sexy and powerful. Let the bra be delicately seen at the décolletage only.


camilla and marc velvet dimmer, $750 SHOP NOW
Calvin Klein ‘Obsess’ bra, $40 from The Iconic SHOP NOW

the linen ensemble

The safari-style linen suit is undeniably one of the trends of autumn. Give the look an extra kick with a hint of pretty underwear. A bold resin earring will complete the look.

Bec & Bridge bon voyage linen blazer, $350 and pant, $220 SHOP NOW
Le Petit Trou Judith bra, $72 from Net-A-Porter SHOP NOW

pinafore and paisley

For something different before the weather cools down, do a cute pinafore or overalls with a printed bralette. The spot of paisley from the side is modern bohemian.

zulu and zephyr Sandstone pinafore, $220 SHOP NOW
Spell & The Gypsy Collective Siren Song bralette, $39 SHOP NOW

The button-down knit

A fitted ribbed cardigan that you can undo to show the contrast of black bra is casually cool. Team with skinny black jeans and a pair of strappy heels to dress it up for the night.

Jacquemus ‘Tordu’ cardigan, $570 from Shopbop SHOP NOW
Stella McCartney ‘Elsa’ bra, $57 from The Iconic SHOP NOW

The white and SheeR

The drapey, wrap jacket is a much talked about look for this year. Go white on white with your ensemble and include a luxe champagne shade underwire for ethereal perfection.

Sir the Label ‘Milena’ shirt, $290, SHOP NOW
Chantelle ‘Le Marais’ bra, $59 from Net-A-Porter SHOP NOW

the Silk shirt

A black silk shirt is a must for every woman’s wardrobe. Its chameleon ability is impressive. Take it date night level with a pretty pop-colour bra you show from the middle button up.

Zara silk shirt, $99. SHOP NOW
Dita Von Teese Maestra bra, $90 from The Iconic SHOP NOW

the sporty bomber

A little different to the other looks, this one is your weekend warrior. A subtle way to show off hard working abdominals and the latest silhouette to rock the athleisure world.

L’Urv let’s explore’ bomber jacket, $169 from The Iconic SHOP NOW
Calvin Klein bralette, $60 from The Iconic SHOP NOW