Imagine the shock of spotting a Hollywood star dressed in what could easily pass for high-end lingerie right in the middle of a busy train station – and not just any star, but Lily Collins herself! This unexpected sighting at Paris's Gare d’Austerlitz not only hinted at the upcoming season of Emily in Paris, but it also put a spotlight on a fashion trend that's set to dominate 2026. But here's where it gets really intriguing: is this bold style a celebration of feminine empowerment, or does it blur the lines between public decorum and private allure? Stick around, because the full story might just challenge your views on what's acceptable in everyday fashion.
Even if you weren't glued to your Netflix notifications like I was, eagerly awaiting that red dot signaling the return of the hit series, the arrival of the Emily in Paris cast at this iconic Parisian railway hub would have been a dead giveaway. There they were, channeling peak French chic in ways that screamed 'fashion-forward drama.' If it weren't for the show's well-known penchant for pushing sartorial boundaries – think outrageous outfits that turn heads since the very first season – I might have double-taken at Lily Collins's ensemble. But for Emily Cooper, the character she plays, this kind of edgy look is practically par for the course. Her lingerie-inspired getup felt perfectly in character, almost like a walking billboard for the show's signature flair.
For the press event leading up to the fifth season's premiere on December 18, Collins opted for a delicate blush-pink romper adorned with lace trim from Saint Laurent – essentially a one-piece garment that's a close cousin to a teddy, which is a type of intimate lingerie for those unfamiliar with the term. To break it down for beginners, a romper is like a jumpsuit but often shorter and more playful, combining top and bottom into one seamless piece. She layered it with sheer tights that added a touch of mystery, sculptural pointed-toe pumps for that elongated silhouette, a single-breasted duster coat for coverage, and a sleek patent-leather clutch, all curated by the luxurious French house. The long trench over it did help tone down the risqué vibe for navigating a train station, but let's be honest: in any other scenario – say, a casual coffee run or a night out – this outfit would stretch the limits of everyday appropriateness. Fortunately, Collins wasn't boarding a train bound for scenic French spots like Bordeaux or Toulouse, which other travelers at Gare d’Austerlitz might be heading to for weekend getaways. Instead, she was there to hype up the next round of adventures for her wildly unpredictable role.
(Image credit: Backgrid)
On Lily Collins: Saint Laurent Laced Romper ($6500), Trench Coat ($4100), shoes, and bag
And this is the part most people miss – for a high-profile press tour, Collins's lace-centric choice nails the zeitgeist, tapping into the lingerie-adjacent trend that's been heating up for years. Picture delicate lace edges on shorts, skirts, pants, and dresses that transform bedtime staples into daytime must-haves. Brands from Reformation and Doên to Prada and Saint Laurent are all in on this dainty, sheer aesthetic that's perfect for holiday parties and beyond, right into 2026. To give you a clearer picture, think of lace-trimmed pieces as a way to add a subtle sensuality to your wardrobe without going full-on bold – like pairing a lace hem with jeans for a flirty yet approachable vibe. Before these gems vanish from shelves, let's dive into some standout options that capture this trend beautifully.
Get the Look
ZARA
Tulle Jumpsuit With Embroidery and Beads
ZARA
Zw Collection Limited Edition Waxed Trench Coat
Wolford
Neon 40 Pantyhose
Schutz
Paola Mid Pump
Shop Lace-Trim Fashion Items
ZARA
Satin Midi Lace Dress
DOÊN
Iona Lace-Trimmed Silk-Satin Shorts
SWF
Lace Trim Satin Mini Skirt
Reformation
Carolina Pant
ZARA
Satin Lace Camisole Top
fleur du mal
Juliet Lace Button Slip
MANGO
Lace Top
Reformation
Fern Satin Short Es
Shopbop
By Malene Birger Leeba Top
j.crew
Gwen Lace-Trim Slip Skirt
MANGO
Silk Nightdress With Lace
But here's where it gets controversial: while some hail this lingerie-inspired fashion as liberating and empowering, others argue it objectifies women by bringing bedroom styles into public spaces. Is it a bold reclaiming of sensuality, or does it risk normalizing attire that's traditionally meant for private moments? As someone who's fascinated by fashion's evolving role in society, I can't help but wonder – do you see this trend as progressive or problematic? Share your thoughts in the comments: Agree that it's a game-changer for women's expression, or disagree and explain why? Let's spark a conversation!
