The naked dress has become a red carpet staple over the years. With sheer fabric, crystal embellishments or cut-outs, celebrities have amped up the dare meter pretty high in the quest to make a statement. Less of an outfit choice and more of an accessory, the naked dress is an oxymoron – it covers just enough to get the imagination running. Sheer panels, lace, mesh, and hip-high slits, the braver you are, the bolder your choice. Take Jennifer Lawrence, for example. On the Golden Globes red carpet, theDie My Love actor, nominated for Best Performance by a Female Actor, showed up in a see-through ensemble that left the internet in shock.
Blush pink fabric clung to her body, with strategically placed floral embroidery adding a touch of whimsical soft glam to her look. Rosy cheeks lent a flush of colour, while her glossy blonde waves kept it romantic yet red-carpet ready. Lawrence carried a matching shawl to dial up the glam quotient.
The comments section underneath her pictures posted on Instagram were filled with cries of “Oh mother 🔥😍” and “Wow, I love it! provocative but not vulgar”. Some netizens even appreciated her dedication to her signature bangs, taking them from reel to red carpet, calling her “leader of the bangs community.”
Jennifer Lawrence at the Golden Globes 2026. (Source: AP)
Speaking to ET about her outfit of choice, she said, “No, I’m going to hang. I’m naked, I might as well,” she joked, adding that her kids wished she stayed home. “They would prefer I not be here.”
Tracing the journey of the naked dress
While the naked dress might not be for everyone, it has evolved to become a symbol of confidence, freedom, and even rebellion at times. From Marilyn Monroe’s dress at President John F. Kennedy’s birthday performance to Rihanna’s Swarovski crystal-studded Selma gown at the 2014 CFDA Awards, celebrities have given it their own unique style.
For the 2021 VMAs, Megan Fox chose a Mugler option with a shimmery G-string and nude bralette, while Zendaya opted for a naked leather number from the House of Balmain for the Venice Film Festival in 2021. The Kardashian-Jenner family is also a loyal naked dress wearer, making the Met Gala their runway to showcase these risky looks.
Kendall Jenner’s La Perla couture at the 2017 Met Gala, or Kim Kardashian’s Mugler wet dress inspired by a Californian beach girl — the sisters have chosen style over comfort to leave netizens in a tizzy. Closer home, Malaika Arora had shown up to Manish Malhotra’s iconic annual Diwali bash in a crystal-embellished sculpted gown. Audacious? yes. Forgettable? Never.
