What to Wear Beneath Crochet Cardigans, Open-Stitch Knits and Sheer Blouses

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Sheer tops and very wide knits seem to be coming back, so let's discuss that age old issue: what to wear beneath crochet cardigans, open-stitch knits, and sheer blouses.

We've talked about what color camisoles to wear beneath white blouses, as well as had fun with someone else's tale of wearing a sparkly, shimmery sheer top to work. We've also rounded up our favorite camisoles, and talked about ways to fix gaping blouses.

The Trend of Wide Knits and Sheer Tops

I've noticed as we head into fall that a lot of the cardigans and other knits I'm seeing have very, very wide knits such as this one from & Other Stories or the many options in Evereve's “work edit.” Every example cited in this post is available for purchase right now.

Options: What to Wear Beneath Crochet Cardigans, Open-Stitch Knits, and Sheer Blouses

Wear a Camisole The Same Color as the Shirt

This wide-lace blouse from Ann Taylor looks great, particularly with a dark blue camisole. It's a nice option if the camisole is either included (as with this top) or is something you can purchase additionally. IMHO, this is the best option if you can do it.

Wear a Solid Neutral Beneath the Top

I feel like this is the next best option. In years past when we've discussed this, I've always argued that the under layer at least is obviously “meant” to be seen, so it isn't like people are trying to figure out your clothing situation beneath the top.

The top from Vince (above) is a good example — also check out these open-stitch sweaters from Vince, or these sweaters from Eileen Fisher.

Wear a Nude-For-You Cami Beneath a Crochet Cardigan

I don't like this option for a workplace — if your boss is taking a second look wondering, “Am I about to see something I shouldn't?” then that's clearly the wrong question for the office. A date? Sure, maybe. But not for work.

Here's an even worse example from Favorite Daughter, who I usually love for workwear, and here's an example from Reiss.

Just Wear a Bra

I was recently(ish) at an alumni event for high achieving women and was absolutely shocked that one of the younger women presenting was wearing a very sheer blouse with a black bra. Did she work in a creative field? Maybe a woman-dominated field? Maybe this was the fashion in whatever city she came from? Maybe it was a packing mistake and she was just trying to soldier through it?

I've thought about that a number of times in the past few months, and I hate to say it, but I do think this is an acceptable option for some circumstances (again, like dates or casual offices in very creative fields). The outfit, as she wore it, looked more modern than sexy, and I could see how in some very specific circles this would be acceptable.

I will say, though, that if you're going to do this, then your bra should be as boring (and opaque) as possible — bikini top or bra, who knows? Kind of like when celebrities wear totally sheer skirts with an almost '50s-style boyshort beneath the skirt to keep it “respectable.”

Readers, what are your thoughts? What will you be wearing beneath crochet sweaters, open stitch tops, mesh turtlenecks and sheer blouses this fall?

Psst: some of our latest favorite camisoles….