The Naked Fashion Trend Takes Center Stage at the Oscars

The 2023 Oscars ceremony was not just about celebrating cinematic excellence; it was also a runway for a daring fashion trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years—the naked dress. Celebrities embraced this style with confidence, making bold statements on the red carpet and at after-parties. The trend, which celebrates minimalism and maximal sensuality, was front and center at events like the Vanity Fair party, where stars like Olivia Wilde, Julia Fox, and Doja Cat turned heads with their audacious outfits. This article delves into the rise of the naked fashion trend, its key proponents, and its significance in contemporary fashion.

Key Players in the Naked Fashion Movement

Olivia Wilde, actor and director, was among the standout figures at the Oscars after-parties. She wore a sheer, embroidered lace negligee by Chloé, paired with metal ends and embroidered lace lingerie panties. Wilde’s outfit exuded a bohemian charm, blending elegance with a touch of daring. Meanwhile, actor Julia Fox took the trend to the next level with a see-through wrap dress, where strategically placed hair extensions served as the only adornment. Her look was unapologetically bold, embracing the essence of the naked fashion trend. Doja Cat, who performed during the ceremony, also joined the ranks, singing “Diamonds Are Forever” in an outfit adorned with diamonds and minimal fabric. Later, at the Vanity Fair party, she donned a custom Balmain gown crafted by 39 artisans over 3,450 hours, inspired by the Oscar statue reflecting the female form. These celebrities, along with others like Kendall Jenner and Leslie Bibb, are pivotal in pushing the boundaries of red carpet fashion.

The Origins and Evolution of the Naked Dress Trend

While the naked dress trend may seem like a recent phenomenon, its roots can be traced back several years. Madeline Hirsch, features director at InStyle Fashion, notes that the trend originated on the runway and has since been popularized by celebrity red carpet moments. “Stars and their stylists can’t seem to get enough,” she says. In 2025, sheer lace has emerged as the most prominent expression of the trend, aligning with the resurgence of bohemian style. The trend’s evolution is evident in how it has transitioned from high fashion runways to mainstream red carpet events, with celebrities and stylists continuously reinterpreting it to suit their personal aesthetics.

The Perfect Setting for Naked Fashion: After-Parties and Red Carpets

The Oscars ceremony and its after-parties provided the ideal backdrop for the naked dress trend to shine. While the ceremony itself often sees more traditional and formal attire, after-parties like the Vanity Fair event are where celebrities let loose and embrace edgier looks. Hirsch explains that these events are “lower stakes” compared to the ceremony, offering a space for stars to express themselves more freely. “Next-to-naked dressing matches that energy,” she says. This dichotomy between the formality of the ceremony and the playfulness of after-parties highlights the duality of red carpet fashion, where risk-taking and experimentation are encouraged in more relaxed settings.

Fashion Experts Weigh In on the Naked Dress Phenomenon

Fashion experts like Hirsch provide valuable insights into the cultural and historical context of the naked dress trend. She emphasizes that while the trend may feel new, it has been simmering in the fashion world for years. The resurgence of bohemian style in 2025 has further fueled its popularity, with sheer lace becoming a staple in many celebrity wardrobes. Hirsch also points out that the trend’s endurance lies in its versatility, allowing for both subtle and daring interpretations. As fashion continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the naked dress trend adapts and influences future red carpet looks.

The Cultural Significance of Naked Fashion

The naked dress trend is more than just a fashion statement; it reflects a broader cultural shift toward body positivity and self-expression. By embracing minimalism and celebrating the human form, celebrities are challenging traditional notions of red carpet attire. This trend also highlights the influence of celebrity culture on fashion, with stars and their stylists playing a crucial role in popularizing and redefining trends. As the fashion world continues to prioritize individuality and boldness, the naked dress trend is likely to remain a cornerstone of red carpet style for years to come.