Runway show proves exposed G-string trend isn’t going anywhere

When the exposed G-string returned recently, some critics were aghast. But a new runway show has taken the racy trend up a notch.

A racy runway show has proven that the exposed G-string trend is here to stay after an array of models strutted their stuff at Paris Fashion Week with their underwear on full display.

But while some had hoped the revival of the iconic 90s and Noughties fashion trend, labelled “trashy” and “vulgar” by some online critics, would fade away – it appears the controversial style is instead being taken up a notch.

During the Luis de Javier Womenswear Spring-Summer 2025 how, held on Tuesday at the Espace Niemeyer, the catwalk was flooded with lingerie-clad models flaunting deliberately accentuated undies.

A racy runway show has proved that the exposed G-string trend is here to stay. Picture: Thierry Chesnot/Getty Images

An array of models strutted their stuff at Paris Fashion Week with their underwear on full display. Picture: Thierry Chesnot/Getty Images

Think low-slung pants with the lace delicates pulled high to the waist and sheer skirts with built-in thongs.

There was even a bubble skirt that had to be held up by the model because it sat on the top of their thighs, putting a good few inches between it and the white string undergarment, once again worn in a “V” on the waist.

The iconic 90s and Noughties fashion trend has been labelled ‘trashy’ and ‘vulgar’ by some online critics. Picture: Thierry Chesnot/Getty Images

But Spanish designer Luis de Javier has taken the daring trend to the next level during his womenswear Spring-Summer 2025 at Paris Fashion Week on Tuesday. Picture: Thierry Chesnot/Getty Images

While it could be assumed that the Spanish designer has inadvertently created a conveyor belt of G-strings due to the see-through nature of his outfits, it’s hard to avoid the fact many of the teeny-tiny undies aren’t actually covered by any fabric.

Case in point: The revealing outfit worn by model Riccardo Tisci, comprised of a cropped jacket, a bejewelled G-string, booty shorts and stockings.

It seems de Javier wanted her undies to more than poke out from under the black French-style knickers as there are pearls encrusted on the back to make it the star of the show.

The designer clearly wanted the undies to capture attention... Picture: Thierry Chesnot/Getty Images

... on one design there are pearls encrusted on the G-string to make it the star of the show. Picture: Instagram/riccardotisci17

The runway model, who has 3.2 million followers, clearly wasn’t fazed by her daring look – revealing she was “proud to walk in de Javier’s Paris debut”.

“I am so happy to have been there to support you in the process... it’s not an easy task to put out a collection in today’s world and if I helped you find your identity just a little, then I am the happiest of all,” she wrote on Instagram.

Some of the outfit’s showcased in the de Javier show toned down the underwear flashing, but still showed them off, such as a striking back lace catsuit.

The one-shoulder design, which also had a billowing cape, featured a unique lace design that resembled a love heart shape.

Some of the undies were visible under sheer fabrics. Picture: Thierry Chesnot/Getty Images

Exposed G-strings, a cult-look from Y2K, made a huge return back in 2022.

Despite the controversy around wearing underwear as outerwear, the trend shows no sign of slowing down.

Critics have condemned the style, but the risque fashion choice “keeps coming back”, and for good reason, according to Vogue Australia.

“It’s not just nostalgia, the same that keeps the ’90s, Y2K and 2014 Tumblr girl aesthetic turning, that revives a trend such as this. It’s maybe too jarring for that,” writer Annie Brown said.

“Instead I think it’s a provocation of taste. In the wise words of TikTok girls everywhere, ‘the girls that get it, get it, and the girls that don’t, don’t’.”