How To Style Your Black Bandeau

Last week, Kim Kardashian West basically broke the Internet (not for the first time), sparking much controversy when she posted a completely naked selfie with strategically placed black censor bars. From praise to criticism, it certainly had everyone, and I mean everyone, talking.

However, her selfie caused something else that’s a bit more unexpected: Lyst, the fashion-forward e-tailer, reported that they saw a 406 percent increase in global searches for "black bandeau" within 48 hours of Kim K’s post. We’re sure this also had something to do with the fact that both Kendall and Kylie were seen in similar fashions (bandeaus, not censor bars, of course), immediately following their big sister’s post. Kylie even posted the below, which is strikingly similar to Kim’s infamous snapshot.

Why this has caused such a spark in black bandeau searches, we don’t fully understand, but then again, what else would one expect when the Kardashian-Jenners are involved? If you jumped on the bandwagon and decided to buy one for yourself, here are a few tips on better ways to style them (you know, with actual clothes).

Click through the gallery below.

1. Under Something Sheer

Throw on a black bandeau under your favorite sheer top or dress, so you can show a little skin and still look appropriate.

NICHOLAS, Dot Lace Sheath Dress, $675, available at Nordstrom.

Forever 21, Embroidered Mesh Tank, $22.80, available at Forever 21.

Puma, Tank Top in Sheer Mesh, $34, available at ASOS; Fashion Forms, Basic Bandeau Bra, $25, available at ASOS.

2. Under plunging necklines and armholes

Avoid nip slips and sideboob exposure, by wearing a black bandeau under those tops and dresses with tricky armholes and super low-cut necklines.

BCBG, Devyn Plunging V-Neck Bandeau Detail Gown, $184, available at BCBG.

Rag & Bone, Clementine Bandeau-Trim Shift Dress, $425, available at Bergdorf Goodman.

T by Alexander Wang, Crepe Low V Dress, $450, available at ByGeorge.   

3. Under an open jacket

For those of you that want to bare a little midriff but still want to be somewhat covered up, try pairing your bandeau under your favorite denim or leather jacket.

Free People, Basic Seamless Bandeau, $20, available at Free People.

Zara, Lace Bandeau, $19.90, available at Zara.   

Alexander McQueen, Bow Bandeau Top, $1,545, available at Farfetch.

4. Rock it on its own

This is a more daring way to wear the revealing trend. We suggest finding a bandeau with a bit of texture or shape and pairing it with something high-waisted to avoid looking like you left the house in your lingerie.

Out From Under, Strapless Bra Top, $39, available at Urban Outfitters.

Opening Ceremony, Knit Bandeau, $95, available at Opening Ceremony.   

Cushnie et Ochs, Cropped Crepe Top, $595, available at Net-a-Porter.