How To Nail The Sheer Dress Trend, ℅ The 2022 Academy Museum Gala

When we think of timeless formal dresses, few other styles spring to mind so quickly. A black maxi dress or gown can be as classic or contemporary as you want it to be, and works for almost any occasion (wedding? Yes. Grocery run? Maybe not…). This year’s gala was brimming with black gowns – Euphoria’s Alexa Demie in glittering Balenciaga, Nicola Peltz Beckham in strapless Givenchy and Taylor Russell in backless Alexander McQueen (and all three looks with matching black gloves, FYI). 

The key to making an otherwise minimalist black dress pop? It all comes down to clever styling. If your hemline allows, a pair of statement party heels in a bold colour or texture will bring visual interest without detracting from your dress. Skirt so long you can’t see your shoes? Opt for a bold lip or statement jewels to draw the eye up.

Lingerie dressing is already on our radar this season, and the trend works just as well – if not better – after dark. A-listers like Kaia Gerber, Olivia Wilde, Alicia Vikander and Lily Collins (to name a few) graced the carpet in sheer dresses. It’s a tricky trend to pull off, but having the right lingerie on hand makes all the difference. 

Gerber’s figure-hugging Alaïa gown fit like a damn glove, in all its high-necked, ruched mermaid skirt perfection. The secret? Supermodel DNA aside, shapewear from brands like Spanx will create a smooth foundation for fitted dresses to do their thing. Seamless undergarments like laser-cut thongs and moulded strapless bras are great shapewear alternates, allowing you to create an undetectable fit that’s custom to your outfit. And, if all else fails? Wilde’s braless moment in sheer shimmering Alexandre Vauthier proves that sometimes the best underpinnings are no underpinnings at all.