Great Outfits in Fashion History: Gabrielle Union's Y2K Spin on the Sheer Trend

There are perfectly good celebrity style moments, and then there are the looks that really stick with you, the ones you try desperately to recreate at home. In 'Great Outfits in Fashion History,' Fashionista editors are revisiting their all-time favorite lewks.

It wasn't until I recently rewatched "10 Things I Hate About You" for the hundredth time that I realized Gabrielle Union played Chastity Church, Bianca Stratford (Larisa Oleynik)'s former best friend. (I know that's criminal. I've already deactivated my pop culture enthusiast card.) I cannot in good faith confess that and go unchecked, so with this pathetically late realization, I'm on my Union redemption journey — and there's no better place to start than digging through her best off-screen sartorial moments.

One of Union's chicest outfits is also arguably among her most underrated: At the 2001 Billboard Music Awards, the actor put her own spin on the sheer trend in an unbuttoned translucent blouse atop a sequined bikini bra, paired with simple black trousers. Her glam was quintessential early 2000s: skinny eyebrows, light purple eyeshadow and brownie-glazed lips, framed by her shoulder-length feather cut.

With sheer back in style (has it ever not been?), it makes for the perfect look to inform your summer wardrobe today. See (and shop!) our top selects below.

Good American Whip Stitch Balconette Bikini Top, $80, available here (sizes XS-5XL)

Reformation Will Oversized Sheer Shirt, $128, available here (sizes XS-XL)

LaPointe Sequin Bra Top, $490 $295, available here (sizes 0-14)

Dkny Chiffon Button-Up Shirt, $89, available here (sizes XS-XL)

Only Hearts Shine On Bra, $110, available here (sizes XS-L)

Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. This in no way affects our editorial decision-making. 

Want the latest fashion industry news first? Sign up for our daily newsletter.