pointing towards a higher tolerance for stand-alone

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Summertime dressing sometimes means seeing how little you can get away with wearing. And there's nothing skimpier than lingerie. Yes, underwear is built to be tucked away and worn underneath (hence, the name), but there's a growing trend as of late on the streets and runways pointing towards a higher tolerance for stand-alone lingerie. With this turning tide has come new styles of skivvies that—we swear—seem practically destined for showing off. Here, we pick some pretty options that can do double duty in daylight and after midnight.

Bustiers

Paired with high-waist skirts and trouser cuts, bustier styles are a chic and form-flattering alternative to tank tops. For especially hot days or nights, let a sliver of skin peek out for an unexpected, but still classy, reveal.

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Above, from left:
Shakuhachi spring '11, image via Shakuhachi; Rachel Comey spring '10, image via Style.com; The Lake and the Stars Curveball Bustier, $150, available at Journelle; Topshop Bold Floral Zip Bralet, $40, available at Topshop; Bodkin La Nina Bustier, $185, available at Bona Drag; VPL Strainer Bra, $175, available at Barney's.

Bralettes

It's the oldest trick in the book to let a little lace show, but these styles prove that showing your straps is hardly skanky. Layered beneath sheer tops or barely there tanks, the bra-peek is a fun way to cool down while heating things up.

Above, from left:
Brian Reyes spring '10, image via Style.com; Rochas spring '10, image via Style.com; Katy Rodriguez Gold Leather Bra, $295, available at Opening Ceremony; Only Hearts Floral Chemise, $63, available at Otte; T by Alexander Wang V Cut Bra, $65, available at I Don't Like Mondays.

Tap Shorts

We know, you absolutely live in your denim cut-offs come summer weather. But can we suggest adding a new pair of shorts to the rotation? With pretty tops and blazers, this boudoir mainstay gets elevated to high-street potential.

Above, from left: Stella McCartney spring '10, image via Style.com; Madame Hawke spring '10, image via Ruby NY; Anthropologie Empire State Bottoms, $38, available at Anthropologie; Skin Organic Pima Cotton Boxer, $38, available at Journelle; Kiki de Montparnasse Lounge Boyshort, $150, available at Barney's; Pins and Needles Scalloped Lace Tap Short, $24, available at Urban Outfitters.

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Bodysuits

Let sleek bodysuits with funky patterns or sheer fabrics creep out from under revealing tank tops and looser fitting layers. Or, simply pair with skirts or shorts for a look that'll always stay tucked in.

Above, from left:
Vena Cava spring '10, image via Style.com; Liz, image via Pop Culture Afternoon; The Lake and the Stars Torchlight Romper, $200, available at Journelle; Topshop Lace Paneled Body, $55, available at Topshop; Kimchi Blue Wild Rose Bodysuit, $34, available at Urban Outfitters.