The Look of Lingerie

Lingerie as outerwear is nothing new. Madonna did it in the early 90s with the help of Jean-Paul Gaultier. Nicole Kidman stunned in corsets and lacy underthings in the movie Moulin Rouge. This season, designer Alexander Wang modernized the look with clean, architectural pieces that borrow the silhouette of lingerie without over the top frills or embroidery.

Reese Witherspoon stepped out on the red carpet recently in an Alexander Wang strapless sheath that's a perfect example of how to wear the trend. Reese's Wang sheath is lacy and feminine without too many frills or embellishments, neutral with a black overlay, and a structured skirt and bodice. The effect is clean-lined with a hard-edged vibe. Pale pink and peachy shades evoke a ballerina feel, and adding black gives it the edge you need to make it modern.

Kate Moss got it right, too, in a short and sweet lacy mini that she topped with a chic white jacket.

Not feeling bold enough to wear a tiny dress like Reese or Kate? Try a top under a jacket like Kate's, and you'll look effortlessly trendy without baring too much skin.