Fashion trends have a way of making comebacks, and some return louder than ever.
One of the latest revivals is the “Free the Nipple” movement, with celebrities and influencers leading the charge.
This resurgence isn’t just about style—it’s also a statement on body autonomy, self-expression, and breaking outdated norms.
Charli XCX and the Power of Sheer Fashion
Charli XCX, known for her love of Y2K aesthetics, made headlines at the Brit Awards when she accepted her five awards in a sheer black ensemble that left little to the imagination.
While some might see this as just another nod to the brat aesthetic, she isn’t the only star embracing the bold look.
Celebrities like Zoë Kravitz and Olivia Wilde have also turned heads with nipple-baring outfits on the red carpet.
The Influence of Social Media and Fashion Icons
Social media influencers are also playing a role in the trend’s resurgence.
Former Love Island star Maura Higgins sported a sheer look at the Brit Awards, and Julia Fox took things a step further at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars, wearing a nearly-naked, flesh-colored gown.
Even Paris Fashion Week has seen daring designs, like Duran Lantink’s three-dimensional crop top that mimicked the shape of a woman’s chest, and Enfants Riches Déprimés’ sheer runway looks.
Why Is the Trend Making a Comeback?
The “Free the Nipple” movement isn’t new. Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and Florence Pugh have all championed sheer fashion in past years.
But beyond aesthetics, experts believe the resurgence reflects a deeper cultural shift.
Stylist Julia Pukhalskaia explains that it’s about reclaiming control over one’s body and challenging double standards in fashion.
Designer Abhi Madan sees it as an expression of confidence and body positivity, with sheer fabrics being used to empower rather than just shock.
A Movement Rooted in Activism
The conversation around this trend goes beyond the runway.
The modern “Free the Nipple” movement gained traction in 2013 with the viral hashtag #FreeTheNipple, calling out the way female bodies are censored compared to male bodies.
Activists took to the streets to make their point—like in 2016, when 200 people marched topless along Brighton Beach to protest social media restrictions on female nipples.
Not Everyone Is On Board
Despite its message of empowerment, the movement has faced backlash.
In 2022, Florence Pugh became the center of controversy when she wore a sheer Valentino gown.
Trolls flooded her Instagram with comments about her body, criticizing her choice to go braless.
Rather than backing down, Pugh hit back, calling out the double standards and body shaming.
She reminded critics that she had no issue with her own body, questioning why they did.
Florence Pugh’s Powerful Response
In a candid social media post, Pugh addressed the backlash, pointing out how easily people—particularly men—feel entitled to comment on women’s bodies.
She shared that, as a teenager, she struggled with body image but has since embraced her figure.
Her message was clear: women shouldn’t have to conform to others’ expectations of what is acceptable.
The Bigger Picture
Florence Pugh’s experience highlights the deeper issue at play: why are women’s bodies still policed so harshly?
She later elaborated in Vogue, emphasizing that clothing choices shouldn’t be used to justify harmful rhetoric or blame victims.
While progress has been made, the strong reactions to sheer fashion suggest there’s still work to do.
What’s Next?
As more celebrities and designers embrace the trend, it’s clear that “Free the Nipple” is more than just a fleeting fashion statement.
It’s a cultural movement that challenges outdated norms and celebrates body autonomy.
Whether the industry and society at large will fully embrace this shift remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—this conversation isn’t going away anytime soon.