Fashion lovers will be channeling a new, dramatic look this summer as galmourous opera-style chic and sheer clothing are two of the current season’s most powerful fashion trends. Marrying classic elegance with contemporary sexiness, the vibe is infiltrating catwalks blogs celeb closets and designer collections everywhere.
Those that popularize the fashion inspired by the coming of the Opera also correspond with the increasing events of romantic dressing and attention-grabbing, bold figure silhouettes. Opera houses are derived as the template across their lavishly designed garments, hinting at flowing fabrics, detailed workmanship, corset tailoring, striking necklines and textured fabrics we wear today.
What is at the heart of this trend? A revival of the love for elegance. Having been dominated by relaxed, simplistic styles These days, fashionable consumers are drawn to items that make them look and feel more lively, artistic and eye catching.
Opera-inspired fashion offers all of this! One of the most identifiable factors of the trend is the increased use of sheer fabrics. Light and breezy textiles such as chiffon organza mesh, lace and tulle enable designers to produce collections which exude a feeling of lightness and high fashion, and can be worn comfortably during the Summer months.
Fashion house’s like Alexander Wang are playing with the borders of, and proportion of, transparent items. What has propelled this trend so far is the endorsement of all these renowned celebrities. Famous face from the industry, both actors and singers, also the fashion icons have been spotted donning transparent dresses, flowy button down shirts, fragile skirts, and opera-looking dresses, that have been a major hit and inspired fashion enthusiasts everywhere.
Social media has also contributed to this aesthetic becoming mainstream. Fashion creators have been uploading daily content for months of outfit inspiration in sheer, embroidered skirts/dresses, ethereal silhouettes, extravagant sleeves and opulent fabric. The dramatic nature of the aesthetic lends itself very well to the highly visual world of Instagram and TikTok.
The success of the trend is largely due to its versatility. Opera-inspired fashion doesn’t exclusively mean high-gloss eveningwear, but many of the characteristics can be adapted into more casual styles. A sheer blouse and well-cut pair of trousers, an elegant and lightweight organza skirt teamed with a plain t-shirt, or a glamorous dress worn with simple accessories would all suit a host of occasions.
Designers are also opting for more delicate, pastel colors to enhance the romantic effect of the trend. Champagne, blush pink lavender pale blue, beige and silver are used highly alongside more traditional black and white. These lighter shades further flatter the translucent qualities of the fabric.
As industry insiders, this is consistent with the increase of “quiet luxury” and elevated dressing. More and more consumers are looking to spend on investment pieces that are elegant and classic instead of highly branded and trendy. Opera inspired designs tend to accentuate the details, fabrics and cutssomething sophisticated customers look for.
