Underwear as outerwear! Lady GaGa was the first to sport this look on many occasions. (Above is a rather extreme example but that is GaGa)

A big trend on catwalks for the spring/summer shows followed. Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Jean Paul Gaultier, Loewe, Dolce and Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and Antonio Berardi all felt that this season our bras should no longer be hidden from the world.

This look has been around for decades (think Madonna circa 1980s in Jean Paul Gaultier) but never before has it been such a widespread trend. It is not an easy trend and isn’t for everyone, this look more than any other this season has rules that must be obeyed:

Rule 1. Only wear with a toned stomach. Otherwise either completely avoid or if you must, wear with a vest top or t-shirt underneath.

Rule 2. They come in a variety of different styles/fabrics/colours. Try a denim look such as the one below available at New Look for £20 for the day. For the evening a satin fabric in black or cream gives a much more chic effect.

Rule 3. Wear with something high-waisted – a skirt/trousers/shorts. Even if you have a stomach as flat as Cameron Diaz don’t be tempted to bare anymore than about 1-2 inches of flesh at the most, otherwise your look will quickly go from trendy to trash.

Rule 4. The flesh on show should be at the smallest/thinnest part of your waist.

Rule 5. Don’t wear it without anything over unless you are A. on stage performing, B. being undressed by a companion who is appreciative of your sexy look or C. at a music festival and it is 40 degrees. So in the day wear it with a man shirt or long cardigan for a casual look and a tailored tuxedo jacket in the evening will do fine!

Ladies proceed with caution.

Denim Bra Crop Top £20 from New Look

[Photo Credit Prphotos.com and Newlook.co.uk]