lowwear

Lowwear is a fashion term describing garments designed with minimal coverage, often intended to be worn as outerwear or visible under sheer fabrics. It encompasses underwear and lingerie-inspired pieces that may be styled as outerwear in certain contexts. Because fashion labeling is varied, 'lowwear' is not a fixed category; interpretations differ by designer, subculture, and region. In practice, items described as lowwear include bralettes worn as tops, bodysuits, cropped lingerie-inspired tops, sheer mesh garments, and slips or accessories with lingerie detailing paired with outerwear.

Historically, lowwear has appeared in fashion through intimate apparel revivals in runways, streetwear, and nightlife aesthetics. It intersects with lingerie-as-outerwear trends and performance costumes, emphasizing skin or lingerie details. Common materials include lace, silk or satin, mesh, and leather, with design features such as cutouts, straps, and garter-like accents used to create avant-garde silhouettes.

Reception is mixed. Proponents cite expanded styling possibilities and body-positivity, while critics worry about objectification and dress-code conflicts. Availability ranges from high-fashion labels to mainstream retailers, with varying size inclusivity and care needs for delicate fabrics.

Lowwear signals a fashion approach that foregrounds minimal coverage and lingerie-inspired design across contexts from high fashion to clubwear and performance.