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. Nudity 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.
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesFlick back through the fashion history books, and you'll find that 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. Fast forward to today and independent brands such as Nensi Dojaka, Molly Goddard and Yuhan Wang have championed see-through looks in recent seasons, using whimsical textures such as lace and tulle to create an elegant take on transparent garments. Autumn/winter 2025 proved to be a turning point for the trend, with Saint Laurent, Valentino, Blumarine and Chloé abiding by the philosophy that less is more when conjuring up their latest collections.
Many argue that nudity 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.
© Getty ImagesToday, naked dressing has taken on a whole new sartorial cachet. Gen Z 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 organza. Most recently, Margot Robbie, Dakota Johnson and Taylor Momsen have been spotted on the red carpet championing the trend, delving into the archives of Armani, Gucci and Grace Ling in order to do so.
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.
Paneled Semi-sheer Gown
Norma Kamali
Looking to jazz things up this party season? Marry sartorial sensuality and modest silhouettes with a helping hand from Norma Kamali, a brand brimming with striking sheer pieces to take you from cocktail bar to after party in one fell swoop.
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.
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.
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.
Noor Sheer Mesh Chemise Black
Bluebella
Tap into after-dark dazzle with Bluebella's lingerie-inspired fishnet number that's primed for glamorous jet-setting. The perfect pick for nights spent under the club lights, this easy-wear piece is a whimsical, sultry gem to treasure.
Asymmetrical Sheer Midi Dress
Mugler
Thierry Mugler was widely celebrated for subverting sartorial norms, meaning sculptural elements and sexed-up sheer were always on the agenda. Tap into the designer's genius by slipping into this asymmetrical gem, a designer jewel to wear all year round.
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.
