Naked dressing - it’s a hot topic of debate right now.
Following the news that Cannes Film Festival banned naked dressing for 2025, the fashion set has been busy debating the move. While some saw the act as a subtle weaponisation of the female body, others praised the decision for its innovation - sparking a move away from expected barely-there attire.
Regardless of which side of the fence you sit, there’s no denying that fashion has long coveted nudity.
© Penske Media via Getty Images
© Getty
© Getty ImagesNudity became more popular in the 1960s as part of a larger cultural shift driven by the sexual revolution, second-wave feminism, and the counterculture movement. As society began challenging conservative norms, nudity emerged as a symbol of liberation, freedom of expression, and protest against repression. The rise of the bikini, topless sunbathing in Europe, and nude scenes in art and film reflected this change.
In fashion, designers such as Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Tom Ford all incorporated elements of nudity into their collections - creating a mix of shock and sensuality while pushing the boundaries of the fashion industry.
© Getty ImagesNudity on the red carpet can help to reclaim the female body - which for so long has been objectified in the media. Kate Moss’ iconic 90s sheer slip dress moment redefined nudity as something to be celebrated in fashion, rather than something to steer away from for risk of offending more conservative audiences.
Today, naked dressing has taken on a whole new sartorial cachet. Muses such as Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski often look to the trend for after-hours occasions, with the latter becoming a pioneer of slinky fabrics from fishnet to sheer and tulle.
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© GettyIndependent brands such as Nensi Dojaka, Molly Goddard and Yuhan Wang have championed see-through looks in recent collections, using whimsical textures such as lace to create an elegant take on transparent garments.
Shop the best naked dresses below and command attention with a touch of sheer excellence.
Best naked dresses to shop now:
Lilith Gown
Rick Owens
Radiate gothic glamour in Rick Owens. This floor-length sheer gown is mysterious and mesmerising in equal measure - complete with asymmetric sleeves and a midnight black hue.
Cut-Out Cotton Mini Dress
Nensi Dojaka
Searching for sheer? Nensi Dojaka should be your first port of call. The designer's dresses are coveted by cool-girls across the globe, thanks to their sheer construction and lingerie-inspired silhouettes.
Ruffled Lace Mini Dress
Oséree
Ooze afters glamour with a touch of lace. This party-ready piece is both sensual and sophisticated, perfect for dressing up with heels for nights spent on the dance floor.
Lace Dress with Draped Neck
Mango
Tap into bridal beauty with Mango's affordable lace number that's primed for jet-setting. The perfect pick for honeymoons and girls' weekends away alike, this easy-wear piece is a whimsical, ethereal gem to treasure.
Floral Semi-Sheer Midi Dress
Jean Paul Gaultier
This printed Jean Paul Gaultier jewel channels punk-romance with a riot of red, blue, and green florals splashed over sheer mesh. It’s body-hugging, rebellious and eye-catching - inspiring confidence whenever worn.
Zeyana Slip
Motel Rocks
The Zeyana Slip is sheer, romantic, and effortlessly cool - double-layered mesh with a sweetheart neckline, floaty silhouette, and flirty lettuce-edge trim. Style it punk, pretty, or playfully layered.
Mercury Dress
Rat & Boa
The Mercury Dress by Rat & Boa is pure molten drama - silver sequins on sheer mesh, a slinky silhouette, plunging back, and subtle slit. Destined to steal the spotlight after dark.
How we chose:
- Style: We've selected an array of ethereal yet sensual pieces to amp up the glam with a touch of sheer sophistication.
- Price: With prices starting from £59, we've included a range of stylish pieces from high street to high fashion.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
