The most talked-about box office battle in memory has finally hit the streets of London. First came the Barbie premiere on Wednesday, an intensely pink affair that saw celebrities cosplaying as walking, talking Mattel dolls, both literally and figuratively. Then, last night, a more suitably sombre colour palette at the premiere of Christopher Nolan’s nuclear war drama, Oppenheimer. Same release date, two very different approaches to red carpet style.

Still, amidst all the tonal greys and blacks of Oppenheimer's opening night, Cillian Murphy stood out. The 47-year-old, who plays the late nuclear physicist, unexpectedly proved that anyone, no matter how seemingly traditional their style, can pull off a sheer shirt – with or without washboard abs. Want to spruce up your look by following this man’s lead? Take it in your stride with our tips.

london, england july 13 cillian murphy at bbc radio 2 promoting new movie oppenheimer on july 13, 2023 in london, england photo by neil mockfordgc images
Neil Mockford//Getty Images
paris, france july 11 cillian murphy attends the oppenheimer premiere at cinema le grand rex on july 11, 2023 in paris, france photo by stephane cardinale corbiscorbis via getty images
Stephane Cardinale - Corbis//Getty Images

Who?

The Peaky Blinders star has always had a simple sense of style, but his recent press tour looks have taking things up a notch. While still favouring classic tailoring, the Irish actor put a spin on his looks by going fully tonal and occasionally throwing on some colourful knitwear.

Where?

The Oppenheimer premiere, where Christopher Nolan said the stars left early to “write their picket signs”, in alliance with the SAG strike.

What’s he wearing?

Murphy opted for a slim-fit, subtly striped Saint Laurent suit to pair with his gauzy layer, and accessorised the look with a bolo tie.

How do I recreate it?

You see, CM is bang on trend with his shirting choice; look back to the spring/summer ’23 shows and you’ll see that they were everywhere. And balmy-apropos clothing is still very much in store – despite the weather app suggesting it shouldn't be.

Naturally, showing a little bit of skin can be intimidating, so opt for a dark hue that doesn’t make its transparency so obvious. And even then, keep your blazer on if you’re still trying to ease into it.

long-sleeve sheer silk shirt
Saint Laurent long-sleeve sheer silk shirt
¥965 at Farfetch
Credit: Farfetch
semi-sheer crepon shirt
Ludovic de Saint Sernin semi-sheer crepon shirt
Credit: Farfetch
semi-sheer cotton shirt
Sapio semi-sheer cotton shirt
Credit: Farfetch

Mistakes to avoid?

Avoid bright colours at all costs – even those who’ve embraced the neon-bright Kenergy this summer will struggle to pull it off. And make sure it isn’t slim-fitting, as that takes away from the easy-going vibe of the piece.