We've all seen it before. The red carpet dress that looks just like the body-con party dress you wore in high school. The blazer with one too many buttons undone to be office-appropriate. And of course, the summer gown that's so tight it looks like you might explode if someone blows on your exposed skin too hard.
You may have scoffed at what you thought was yet another fashion trend in an industry where trends are an eternity long, but...there's actually a reason why this dress is so popular.
It's called bra-slinging, and it might be the most subversive feminist fashion trend you've ever seen.
Bra-slinging is the act of draping straps over your shoulders, causing your bra to peek out from under whatever top you're wearing, creating a look that manages to be both sexy and casual while also referencing the importance of the women's rights movement. Bra-slinging was popularized by Bella Hadid at this year's Cannes Film Festival when she stepped out in a red Saint Laurent gown with her bra straps showing.
Bella started the trend, but she's not the only celebrity who's caught on. Miley Cyrus has helped popularized this look as well by showing off her bra straps in a multitude of different outfits.
Violet Chachki, another contestant from RuPaul's Drag Race, is also known for her affinity for a good bra-sling. She's known for wearing dresses that expose her chest yet don't necessarily fit in the traditional sense of the word, so it makes sense that she would be a fan of this particular fashion trend.
But Bella, Miley and Violet aren't the only celebrities who're getting in on the action. Because bras are a necessary part of a woman's life, people associate them with femininity. By revealing their straps, these celebrities are showing that they're not afraid to embrace their feminine side...and nothing says female empowerment like owning your sexuality.
While the majority of Hollywood is embracing this trend, there's one celebrity who hasn't jumped on board just yet: Kim Kardashian West. Not everyone is as open about their sexuality as Kim...for good reason. Getting to a place where you can openly display your bra straps for all to see takes time and courage that not everyone has, and it's important that we respect that.
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