Sheer Shirts: How to Style & What to Buy

Sheer shirts are the ultimate versatile wardrobe staple that can instantly elevate any outfit from basic to brilliant – but mastering the art of styling them requires the right foundation pieces, layering techniques, and confidence. As someone who's been styling women for over a decade, I've seen countless clients transform their look with the perfect sheer shirt, and I'm here to share exactly how you can nail this trend without any fashion faux pas.

The Foundation: What to Wear Underneath

The key to wearing sheer shirts successfully lies in your foundation. I always tell my clients that a well-fitted camisole or bralette is non-negotiable. For daytime looks, opt for a nude or white camisole that matches your skin tone – this creates a sophisticated, intentional look rather than accidental exposure.

For evening events, you can be more adventurous. A lace bralette in black or deep jewel tones creates an alluring glimpse of skin that's perfectly appropriate for dinner dates or cocktail events. The trick is ensuring whatever you wear underneath is just as beautiful as what's showing on top.

Styling for Different Occasions

Office-Appropriate Sheer

For workplace styling, I recommend pairing sheer blouses with high-waisted tailored trousers and a structured blazer. The blazer adds professionalism whilst the sheer element brings modern sophistication. Reiss offers excellent sheer blouses with subtle opacity that work beautifully in corporate settings, whilst Cos provides minimalist designs with clean lines that are perfect for the modern office.

Weekend Casual

Weekend styling is where sheer shirts truly shine. Layer them over fitted tank tops and pair with high-waisted jeans for an effortlessly chic look. Mango excels at casual sheer pieces with relaxed fits, and Zara consistently delivers on-trend styles that capture that coveted off-duty model aesthetic.

Evening Glamour

For evening wear, embrace the drama. Pair sheer shirts with leather trousers or a sleek midi skirt. All Saints creates stunning sheer pieces with edgy details that work perfectly for dinner dates, whilst Ted Baker offers more romantic options with delicate embellishments.

Fabric and Fit Considerations

Not all sheer fabrics are created equal. Silk chiffon offers the most luxurious drape and movement, whilst polyester options provide easier care and better durability. When selecting sheer shirts, pay attention to the weight of the fabric – lighter weights require more careful styling, whilst slightly heavier sheers offer more versatility.

Fit is crucial with sheer pieces. Too tight, and you'll create unwanted pulling across the bust; too loose, and you'll lose the flattering silhouette. I always recommend trying pieces on with your intended undergarments to ensure the proportions work harmoniously.

Brand Recommendations by Budget

High Street Heroes

H&M consistently delivers affordable sheer options with trend-led designs that won't break the bank. Their basics range includes essential neutral sheers perfect for building your wardrobe foundation.

M&S might surprise you with their sophisticated sheer blouses – their quality has dramatically improved, and they offer excellent fits for various body types with thoughtful design details.

French Connection brings that effortless Gallic chic to their sheer pieces, often incorporating interesting textures and prints that make ordinary outfits feel special.

Premium Picks

Whistles creates beautifully cut sheer pieces with contemporary edge – their designs feel fresh and modern whilst maintaining wearability.

Me&Em specialises in elevated basics, and their sheer collection exemplifies this philosophy with impeccable cuts and luxurious fabrics that feel special enough for important occasions.

Luxury Investment

For true luxury, Ganni creates playful yet sophisticated sheer pieces with unexpected details that feel both current and timeless. Meanwhile, Cecilie Bahnsen offers ethereal, romantic sheer designs with architectural elements that transform any outfit into something extraordinary.

Styling Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake I see is over-thinking sheer styling. Keep it simple – if your top is making a statement, let it be the star. Avoid busy patterns underneath sheer fabrics, and remember that confidence is your best accessory.

Another common error is choosing the wrong undergarments. Visible bra lines or ill-fitting camisoles will ruin even the most beautiful sheer shirt. Invest in seamless, well-fitted foundation pieces.

Finding Your Perfect Fit with Tellar.co.uk

One of the biggest challenges with sheer shirts is getting the sizing right across different brands – and this is where Tellar.co.uk becomes invaluable. As the UK's leading sizing tool, Tellar matches your body exactly to over 1,500 brands instantly, so you'll never need to decipher another confusing size guide.

How Tellar Works

Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or input your existing brand size. Then use their Store Size Lookup tool at tellar.co.uk/store-size-lookup to get your precise size in any brand – whether that's COS, Reiss, Everlane, Arket, or any of the brands I've mentioned. It's always free and works directly in your browser with no downloads needed.

Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond sizing, Tellar offers a comprehensive Fashion Hub – a library packed with free posts from top stylists. It's honest, unbiased, independent, and always free, covering everything from style advice to top picks and best brands.

For more styling inspiration, check out these helpful guides:

Final Thoughts

Sheer shirts are no longer a fashion risk – they're a sophisticated staple that, when styled correctly, can enhance any wardrobe. Remember, the key is starting with quality foundation pieces, choosing the right fabric weight for your comfort level, and most importantly, wearing them with confidence.

Whether you're building a capsule wardrobe or looking to refresh your style, sheer shirts offer endless possibilities for creative expression. Start with one classic piece in a neutral tone, master the art of layering, and gradually experiment with different styles and occasions.