How did underwear become outerwear in fashion history?

The transition of underwear into outerwear is a recurring theme in fashion history, often driven by a desire to challenge social conventions or embrace provocative new aesthetics.1

Historically, this practice has been met with both fascination and resistance. For instance, in 1783, Queen Marie-Antoinette was famously criticized for wearing a white muslin chemise dress, which many contemporaries viewed as an inappropriate display of an undergarment.1

In the modern era, designers have intentionally blurred these boundaries to destabilize social categories and amplify sexuality. Notable examples include:2

• The Bustier: Popularized as outerwear among young women in the 1980s, this garment evolved from its origins as a foundation piece.31
• Conical Bras: Designer Jean Paul Gaultier famously challenged traditional norms by creating iconic conical bras for Madonna’s 1990 tour, turning a functional undergarment into a provocative fashion statement.2
• Slip Dresses: This style gained significant popularity as outerwear among young women in the early 21st century.1
• Corsets: While traditionally used for support, corset-style tops without structural supports have become a staple in alternative fashion and high-end design.3