Why I bothered with that see-through thing
Found this sheer cardigan buried in my closet last Tuesday. My aunt gave it to me like two years ago – tags still on. Figured I’d finally try styling it instead of donating the damn thing. Honestly felt flimsy as hell when I touched it.

The disaster phase
First I just threw it over a regular tank top with jeans. Looked straight-up ridiculous – like I forgot to put on real clothes. Could see my bra clear as day through the fabric. My roommate walked in and went “Yo… you good?” Felt stupid.
Figuring out the basics
Went digging through my drawers for solutions:
- Grabbed plain nude camisoles that matched my skin tone
- Tested tight black tops under it
- Tried buttoning just the top button
- Tossed it over slip dresses
Key was that nude tank for no-show layers. Made the stupid cardigan actually look intentional.
Leveling up the look
Started messing with proportions next:
- Wore oversized cardigan with bike shorts = surprisingly decent
- Paired cropped sheer version with high-waisted pants = 10/10
- Threw belt over it when buttoned = actually flattering
Belt trick saved the boxy shape big time. Just cinched it over the cardigan where my waist narrows.

Final combos that stuck
After three days of trial/error:
- Date night: Black bralette + high waisted jeans + cardigan tied at waist
- Grocery runs: Nude tank + bike shorts + giant unbuttoned cardigan
- Meetings: Silk cami under fully buttoned cardigan with wide-leg pants
Discovered this old thing dresses down sweats but also dresses up basic tops. Never would’ve guessed.
Live and learn
Biggest shock? That flimsy fabric works great in heat. Lets air through unlike my hoodies. Still hate how delicate it is – caught a ring on it twice. But now I actually wear the thing instead of staring at it in my closet feeling guilty.