The Cannes 2017 red carpet shares a common similarity with the red carpets of most A-list event in the last couple years – an influx of sheer dresses that appear to be more revealing by the day. Originally made famous by Marilyn Monroe while signing ‘Happy Birthday, Mr President’ (and in the hilarious comedy Some Like it Hot, which I highly recommend watching), the sheer dress has become a controversial icon for the display of female sexuality while overtly challenging the use of derogatory feminine labels. It was then reclaimed by Kimmy K, and more recently has been making appearances on Bella Hadid who only just wore a breathtaking Ralph & Russo Couture gown at Cannes last week. Or was it a small piece of crystal-embellished fabric immodestly wrapped around her body? Either way, she looked like a beautiful ice princess, and I believe that men and women should be able to wear whatever they want minus any degrading and sexist comments. But at the end of the day, you don’t have to show your nipples or wear a g-string to conform to the sheer trend.

I found this sheer black and silver-patterned dress at an op shop (our Australian version of a thrift shop) for about $12. To be fair, it was on the pricier end of the scale for a second-hand dress, but it was perfect for me (being silver and all). I have been lucky to come across fantastic, modern-looking clothes at op shops that look as though they have never been worn and they usually tend to be in my size. Op shopping is like a scavenger hunt, and it’s so worth it when you strike gold and find something that you genuinely love at a bargain. There is no greater sense of satisfaction.

The striking silver print is matched with these metallic silver Nine West shoes that were a steal at $18 from their outlet store. My hips can’t yet handle walking around in these beauties, but in the meantime, they’re pretty to look at. Underneath the dress I wore high-waisted black shorts and a black crop top to leave the rest as sheer.

So there you have it. Op shops are not only useful for finding unique vintage pieces, but they can serve the purpose of finding inexpensive, pre-loved modern clothing that look as though they could have been produced in 2017 – especially because fashion trends just don’t stop repeating themselves.

Dress: Op Shop

Shoes: Nine West

Watch: Witchery

Earrings: ?

Check out my Instagram @ilikeyourshirt_blog for more of my personal style and fashion musings!