The steamy and bold sheer dress trend is hitting hard this year. After months of lounging in cozy plush wear, it's time to show off a little skin. The steamy sartorial choice is becoming a favorite of fashion's biggest celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Lizzo, and Doja Cat.
While the sheer style may seem daring to some, a sheer dress can be both sexy and modest based on how you wear it. It is perfect for anyone who isn't shy about making a bold fashion statement and showing off some skin. It also lends itself nicely to layering in a variety of ways for some coverage.
To help you shop, we have curated a list of sheer dresses and gowns from our favorite brands and stores. With everything from daring mesh mini dresses to sophisticated nude-illusion gowns, we've got a sheer dress for every formal occasion. Depending on your choice of undergarments, you can show as much or as little skin as you'd like. For a seamless look, try a sheer mesh dress with a built-in bodysuit or slip. Are you in to join the party?
21 Sheer Dresses and Gowns for Your Next Formal Occasion
01
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Turn heads at your next formal occasion in the Dita X Revolve Mesh Gown from Nookie. Its lightweight sheer mesh fabric drapes effortlessly over a nude body-con slip dress. The strapless gown features an off-the-shoulder neckline and flattering ruching throughout that accentuates your curves. With three neutral color options to choose from, there's something to flatter every skin tone. It's the perfect sexy dress for a birthday, bachelorette party, or girl's night out.
02
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The search is over. This Lace-Insert Corset Dress from Dion Lee offers the perfect balance of sexiness, sophistication, and style. The fitted midi dress features a rear slit, back zipper, and a corset-inspired bustier top with a sweetheart neckline. Sheer lace panels throughout create a sexy look without showing too much skin.
03
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You'll feel like a bombshell the second you slip on this Camille Gown from Sau Lee. The sexy sheer gown features detachable skirt lining, lightly padded underwire cups, boned bodice, and crushed velvet banded waist with tulle fabric throughout. Styled with a bright red lip, you'll feel unstoppable on your next night out.
04
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This Norma Kamali Diana Gown isn't for the faint of heart. Its curve-accentuating silhouette and sexy fabrication will have you looking like a knock-out at your next formal event. The revealing midi dress features a one-shoulder silhouette with all-over ruching details. Underneath the stretchy black mesh is a nude bodysuit lining for a sheer illusion effect. Pair it with strappy black heels and gold hoops for a sophisticated touch.
05
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If there's one word to describe Miaou's Thais Dress, it's effortless. The sheer maxi dress layers a nude lining under a mesh fabric overlay with a subtle Miaou monogram print. A low back, skinny straps, and side slit expose just the right amount of skin. Dress it up for a birthday, cocktail party, or dressy date night. Paired with simple accessories and minimalist heels, you'll look effortlessly chic no matter where you're headed.
06
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This Chloe Tulle Dress from Sau Lee blends sweetness with sexiness to create a stylish formal dress. Its feminine silhouette features a plunging surplice neckline, a velvet waistband, sheer underarm panels, and a tiered tulle skirt. The gauzy tulle fabric comes in your choice of cherry red or basic black. Style with nude heels, gold jewelry, and a bold red lip for one unforgettable look.

For a sophisticated take on the sheer dress trend, there's this Velvet and Mesh Long-Sleeve Midi Dress from Naked Wardrobe. It mixes luxe velvet fabric with sheer mesh panels for a flash of skin in all the right places. Long Sleeves and a mock neck keep the dress from feeling too revealing without sacrificing sexiness. The sleek midi dress comes in both black and chocolate brown. But, heads up. According to reviews, this fitted style runs small, so you'll want to order a full-size up.
08
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Bring out your inner goddess in this Michael Costello X Revolve Follie Gown. The draped maxi dress features a sexy strappy back with adjustable tie closure. It's cut from gauzy nylon fabric that falls effortlessly over your curves. An attached undergarment with snap-button closure protects your modesty while creating an undergarment-free look. Choose from two feminine shades: dusty pink and cherry red.
09
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Get ready to dance the night away in this Danielle Mini Dress from super down. The one-shoulder dress features a sheer mesh panel at the waist for an added dose of sex appeal. A hidden elastic band along the neckline ensures it stays securely in place while you're on the dancefloor. The party-ready style comes in classic black or white, making it an excellent option for any occasion.
10
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If you're aiming for a flirty, feminine vibe, try the Tamar Cut-Out Silk Dress from Alice and Olivia. The flowy silhouette features a plunging v-neck, braided spaghetti straps, and a mini skirt with a long sheer overlay. It's cut from bright pink silk that's light, airy, and incredibly comfortable. Consider it the perfect sheer dress for your next vacation.
11
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Designer Peter Dundas is known for his glamorous, glittering dresses. This Joey Mini Dress from the Dundas X Revolve collection features a slinky silhouette with strategically placed sheer cut-outs. Metallic silver dots throughout add a little shimmer. The fitted silhouette is cut from stretchy rayon-blend fabric that's ultra-flattering and surprisingly comfortable.
12
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The house of Mugler designed this Open-Back Fitted Mini Dress for the most fearless of fashionistas. Its semi-sheer design can be layered over everything from black bralettes to nude slips, allowing you to show as much or as little skin as you'd like. The fitted tank dress features a scoop neck, mid-thigh length, and deep open back. Choose between solid black and a swirling star print.
13
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Sheer dresses don't have to be overly revealing. Just take this Tulle Corset Essential Gown from BCBGMAXAZRIA as proof. The ruffle-trimmed maxi dress features a semi-sheer corset-style bodice and full tiered ruffle skirt. Thanks to fitted through bust and waist, boning in the bodice and straight ruffled trimmed silhouette flatters every body shape.
14
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You'll be the life of the party in this Loulou Tulle Party Dress. The flirty mini dress is made from layers of blush pink tulle with short puff sleeves, a round neck, and 3-D floral details. Depending on how much skin you're looking to show, layer the semi-sheer style over a nude or light pink slip dress. You'll feel more confident the instant you put it on!
15
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While this Amsale Clarissa Dress was designed with bridal occasions in mind, it can be worn to almost any formal event. The sophisticated style features a mini sequin dress with a delicate tulle overlay. A shift silhouette with sheer long sleeves and a high neckline create an elegant look that isn't overly sexy. Just wait until you see the sequins sparkle under the light!
16
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If you consider your style to be boho, try this Temecula Maxi Dress from For Love & Lemons. The sheer maxi dress boasts intricate, all-over floral embroidery. Lined with a nude bodysuit, there's no need for a slip. A plunging v-neck, crochet waistband, and flared maxi skirt have a traditional boho feel. With ivory, baby blue, pale pink, and black lace overlays to choose from, it's perfect for any event. The brand is known to run a tad small, so we suggest sizing up if you're in between sizes.
17
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This Brandy Dress from Majorelle is undeniably sassy and sexy. Based in LA, It-Girl approved label blends whimsical romance with elegant bohemian details. The strapless midi dress is cut from sheer polka-dot fabric with ruching and ruffles throughout. A body-con fit and thigh-high slit show off your curves just right. A non-slip, silicone-lined neckline and nude lining ensure you never show too much.
18
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Khaite designer Cate Holstein plays with texture, sheerness, and silhouette in this Marca Off-The-Shoulder Gown. The fitted gown has an effortlessly draped off-the-shoulder neckline that flows into a sheer pleated skirt. Mixed metallics, sequins, satin, and sheer mesh creates a one-of-a-kind finish that's impossible to forget.
19
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Don this Mesh Illusion Hem Dress from Helmut Lang, and you're sure to be the best-dressed in the room. It puts a modern spin on a classic little black dress. The tiered maxi skirt boasts a mesh overlay for a sheer illusion. A simple square neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps ensures a flattering fit on any bust size. Pair the timeless black dress with black heels to keep your look cohesive and chic.
20
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Headed to a cocktail party? Impress partygoers in this Jonathan Simkhai Harlow Lace Midi Dress. The fitted white midi dress features eye-catching floral motif lace with tiered, sheer skirting. Boasting a slimming bustier bodice and flared, midi hemline. The all-white look would make the perfect choice for a bachelorette party too!
21
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How gorgeous is this Maya Dress from Bronx and Banco? The body-con midi dress features a layer of the glittery mesh fabric over a detachable bodysuit lining. Padded shoulders and ruching throughout accentuate your hourglass curves. Slip it on, and you'll want to dance the night away! The shimmering fabric catches the light for a radiant glow. Don't forget to snap a few photos in your new favorite dress before the night ends.