Sheer Mesh Maxi Dress: How to Wear It and What to Layer Underneath
Wear a sheer mesh maxi dress over a slip or a matching base layer, and choose underwear that blends with your skin tone. Mesh is see-through by design, so plan the layer underneath before you plan the shoes. Check the product page for lining details, and if a page does not state it, treat the dress as unlined.
Lined or unlined: how to tell
A lined dress has a second layer of fabric under the sheer one, usually over the bust and hips. An unlined dress is see-through all over. Look for a line in the product description such as "lined" or "with lining". The product pages for the 2 LUNETTE mesh styles below describe the fabric as sheer and do not mention a lining, so assume both need a layer underneath. If you want certainty before you order, email LUNETTE through the Contact page.
3 sheer styles
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Sheer Polka Dot Mesh Maxi Dress
From $29.99
Colors: Black -
Off-Shoulder Ruched Floral Mesh Maxi Dress
From $40.99
Colors: White -
Halter Open-Knit Cutout Fringe Maxi Dress
From $41.99
Colors: Mustard
- Sheer Polka Dot Mesh Maxi Dress ($29.99). A black sheer dotted mesh dress with slim straps and a long skirt. Sizes S to L.
- Off-Shoulder Ruched Floral Mesh Maxi Dress ($40.99). A white off-shoulder dress with a ruched fitted body, a flower detail and a sheer lower skirt. Sizes S to L.
- Halter Open-Knit Cutout Fringe Maxi Dress ($41.99). Not mesh, but open-knit with a similar see-through effect. The listing says the open structure reveals what is worn underneath, so choose your own base layer.
What to wear underneath
| Look you want | Layer | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Subtle see-through | Slip dress in a skin-tone shade | Skin-tone slips disappear under pale mesh |
| Contrast | Slip dress in black or a deep color | Black mesh over black base looks seamless |
| Beach or vacation | Swimsuit or bodysuit | Sheer mesh works well as a cover-up |
| Evening out | Seamless bodysuit plus slip | Check for lines from the side |
Choose underwear in seamless fabric and avoid lace trims, since lace shows through mesh. A white dress such as the Off-Shoulder Ruched Floral Mesh Maxi Dress usually looks best over a skin-tone layer, not a white one.
How to wear it for different occasions
- Dinner or date night: pair with strappy sandals and a small bag. A slip underneath keeps it dressy.
- Vacation: wear it over a swimsuit with flat sandals and a hat.
- Party: add statement earrings and a clutch, and keep your hair away from the neckline.
- Cooler evenings: add a cropped jacket or a long cardigan in a solid color.
Keep accessories light so they do not snag the mesh. Take off rings with sharp edges, and keep the zipper of a bag away from the skirt.
Sizing
Mesh sits close to the body, so check your measurements against the size guide. LUNETTE recommends sizing up if you are between sizes. For more maxi styles, visit the dresses collection. Our guide to what to wear under a satin dress has more ideas on seamless layers.
FAQ
What do you wear under a sheer mesh dress?
A slip dress or bodysuit in a shade that suits the dress, and seamless underwear.
Can you wear a sheer dress to a wedding?
Yes, with a full-coverage slip underneath and a modest layer on top if the dress code is formal.
Is the LUNETTE mesh dress lined?
The product pages do not mention a lining, so plan for an unlined dress and add your own layer.
Which color of slip should I choose?
Match your skin tone for a subtle effect, or match the dress for a seamless one.