If You Live for Risqué Trends, Then These 30 Summer Pieces Are All You

Summer is in full swing, and if you’re an avid Who What Wear reader, then you know we love this time of year. There’s so much to be excited about—including the prospect of test-driving new swimwear trends or wafting about in a beautiful dress. But nothing beats the possibility of ditching some layers and showing some skin. For me (and I’m guessing for you too since you’re reading this), dressing for the summer isn’t about just throwing on a simple dress and calling it a day—you want to look fire. You want to give off Princess Diana in the revenge dress energy; you want to step into your villain era and serve looks in the South of France. And, well, summer is the perfect time to do just that, but if you’re unsure where to start, you’ll want to keep reading.

I’ve highlighted five popular risqué trends that are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. These capsule pieces will bring the heat—trust me. 

Call me cliché, but summer, in my mind, is all about embracing the heat—both literally and figuratively. It’s the season to take some risks and take off the layers. And what better way is there to do just that than adopting short hemlines into your wardrobe? Yes, miniskirts have been all the rage among the fashion set, but really, it’s because this hemline is ideal for the summer. Whether you opt for a linen minidress or miniskirt, it’s a choice that is well worth the risk every time. 

Shop the risqué summer staple:

Are you over cutouts yet? How about keyholes? Or maybe tie-up pieces? If you’re reading this story, you’re still very much a fan of it all. To take these trends to a new degree, you’ll want to be sure to invest in a piece that will last you all summer.

Shop the risqué summer staple:

At this point, corsets can arguably be considered a staple wardrobe piece seeing how they’ve continued to be a significant part of the conversation. But if you have yet to lace yourself into this trend, consider this summer your chance. Just be sure to opt for more practical iterations of the trend in linens, denim, and satin to make it more practical for everyday wear. 

Shop the risqué summer staple:

Denim is arguably one of the most low-key staples that anyone can invest in, but if recent trends have taught us anything it’s that this hero piece is a far cry from basic. Just look at the resurgence of low-rise denim or even more saucy pieces like miniskirts and corsets. Ultimately, this summer it’s all about taking your staples and adding a little spice, and there’s no better way to do that than with a fun denim piece.

Shop the risqué summer staple:

Last but certainly not least, one more risqué trend worth adding to your summer wardrobe: knitwear. But it’s not your grandmother’s knitwear—it’s all about opting for more sultry versions. Think ultra-sheer open-knit pieces, crochet maxi dresses, or the viral micro cardigan from Jaquemus. It’s about choosing staples with a sultry twist so you can look and feel your hottest all summer.

Shop the risqué summer staple:

Next: Hot Girl Summer Is Out, and Villain Era Is In—Here's What to Know and Wear