Just over a decade ago, at the height of the #mycalvins campaign, nothing was cooler than letting the elastic waistband of your Calvin Klein underwear show above your pants. When Veronica Leoni revived the dormant label earlier this year, she also aimed to bring back that iconic waistband, showcasing it in multiple ways on the spring 2026 runway: on a woven dress, visor sunglasses, and a pair of sheer long johns. But many wondered: who would actually wear this?
Apparently, Kristen Stewart is the answer. At last night’s IndieWire Honors, the director of The Chronology of Water stepped onto the carpet in sheer white leggings worn over white briefs, creating a double CK waistband effect. Styled by Tara Swennen, she skipped the drapey white top from the runway and instead chose a similarly see-through white tank, layered under an oversized black blazer. She completed the look with black pointy-toe pumps, round sepia-tinted glasses, and two diamond tennis necklaces resting on her collarbone.
Stewart is no stranger to treating underwear as outerwear. Last year, while promoting her film Love Lies Bleeding, she attended the premiere in an ultra-high-cut, hip-baring bodysuit from Bettter. Later in the press tour, she was spotted on the streets of New York City in cream cable-knit underwear with brown trim.
Though she’s already mastered the pantless trend, this latest Calvin Klein look shows there’s still room to experiment. After all, necessity is the mother of invention—and as Kristen Stewart knows, everyone needs underwear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Kristen Stewart redefining underwear as outerwear designed to be clear and conversational
Beginner Questions
1 What does underwear as outerwear even mean
Its a fashion trend where pieces traditionally worn under clotheslike bras slips briefs or corsetsare styled to be visible and worn as the top or main part of an outfit
2 Why is Kristen Stewart linked to this trend
Kristen Stewart has consistently worn lingerieinspired pieces on major red carpets and in her daily street style making the look feel modern cool and accessible rather than overly costumed or risque
3 Isnt this just wearing your underwear in public
Not exactly The key is intentional styling Its about choosing pieces designed with outerwear in mind or layering them strategically so they look like a deliberate fashion choice not a wardrobe malfunction
4 Whats a simple way to try this trend
Start with a lacetrimmed camisole or a sleek slip dress worn over a plain tshirt or under a blazer It adds a hint of the trend without feeling too exposed
Intermediate Styling Questions
5 What are the key pieces for this look
Structured Bralettes or Bustiers Worn as a top
Slip Dresses Often layered over tees or under jackets
Corset Belts Worn over shirts or dresses to cinch the waist
BoxerInspired Shorts Styled as tailored shorts
6 How do you make it look chic and not sloppy
Fit is everything The underwear piece should fit perfectlynot too tight not loose Pair it with highquality tailored outer pieces like a sharp blazer wideleg trousers or a sleek maxi skirt to create balance
7 Where is it appropriate to wear this style
Its great for nights out concerts fashion events or creative workplaces For more conservative settings lean into subtle layering or save the bolder looks for the weekend