The fashion world is increasingly embracing "naked dressing," a trend characterized by the use of sheer, transparent, or flesh-toned fabrics that create an illusion of nudity. Celebrities have frequently showcased this style at events like the Met Gala, with notable appearances by Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Kate Moss.
Recently, the trend entered the spotlight when bride Dominique Elissa went viral for wearing a sheer wedding dress that exposed her nipples. Elissa, a health and wellbeing entrepreneur with over 301,000 Instagram followers, chose the "Lilou" gown by designer J. Andreatta, crafted from intricate lace. While some praised the dress as "beautiful" and "gorgeous," others expressed disapproval, with one commenter comparing it to a man exposing himself and another stating they would reconsider marriage if their partner wore such an outfit.
Another individual, Jennifer Epstein, a 43-year-old pharmacist from Fort Washington, Pennsylvania, also participated in the trend by wearing a sheer black lace dress that revealed her underwear to dinner with her husband. Her husband's reaction was one of surprise, asking, "Where is the rest of your outfit?" Epstein, however, described the experience as "empowering" and a form of "modern kind of feminism that embraces self assurance and femininity on your own terms."
Fashion stylist Liz Teich, known online as The New York Stylist, commented on the divisive trend, noting that "naked dressing" can be executed tastefully. Teich, who recently styled a bride at Kleinfeld's in New York City, observed that many bridal gowns incorporate skin-toned mesh panels for coverage while maintaining a sheer appearance. Some dresses featured significant sparkle, resembling styles from the early 2000s but with a better balance of materials to avoid appearing costume-like and to retain elegance, especially for photographs.
For wedding guests considering the trend, Teich advises caution. She suggests opting for sheer elements on the lower parts of a skirt, shoulders, or back to avoid competing with the bride or appearing inappropriate. Teich referenced singer Chappell Roan's daring Grammys dress as an example of boldness and recommended against wearing anything that would make the bride's grandmother uncomfortable. For dresses with significant skin exposure, she suggests incorporating interesting undergarments like a corset or triangle bra for added coverage.
Teich also offered guidance for incorporating the trend into everyday wear, particularly for daytime. She prefers a more "demure" approach, suggesting sheer silk tops worn as jackets or over camisoles, or even over a bra for evening occasions. A mesh panel on a skirt can also be a way to achieve the look for daytime without appearing overly revealing.
However, Teich cautioned against synthetic materials often used in sheer garments. She prefers silk or silk organza, noting that synthetic fabrics can be itchy, detrimental to the environment, and less durable in a wardrobe.