Yves Saint Laurent discovered see-through shirts from France. The French loved them, but it caused a global shock-wave nonetheless. Sydney designer Robert Boffa created couture versions of see-through shirts and topless dresses and many Australian women wore them with strategically placed black lace inserts. Shortly the Sunday Mirror reported that the look was so 'in' that "Wealthy young matrons from the eastern suburbs and North Shore are wearing dozens of variations of topless gowns to exclusive house parties."

This was a sign of increasing liberation but the look never really became popular in Australia. Many people were confused whether they should wear a bra, body stocking, camisole or nothing underneath. Modelling agencies said that no photographs would be taken without body stockings. Some see-through shirts were sold with matching camisoles. The turning point was when Flair magazine ran pictures of a model wearing a sheer, white, organza blouse with discreetly placed pockets, but nothing on underneath. No letters of complaint were received and the look became accepted. Nudity became acceptable, so long as the face was fully made up.

In 1964 Rudi Gernreich launched the topless bathing suit. 

Last updated: June 01, 2003

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