Rita Ora has never been one to play it safe. Honestly, if you’ve followed her career for more than five minutes, you know she treats a red carpet like a high-stakes art gallery where the rules of traditional clothing simply don't apply. Recently, the conversation surrounding rita ora in the nude has shifted from mere tabloid shock to a deeper discussion about body autonomy and the "naked dress" trend that she basically pioneered alongside icons like Rihanna.
It's 2026, and while the "naked dress" is practically a wardrobe staple for some, Rita still manages to make people stop and stare. Whether it's a completely sheer Chloé gown at a Paris after-party or an artistic photoshoot where the skin is the primary texture, she’s mastered the art of being seen without being fully covered.
The evolution of rita ora in the nude as a fashion statement
Fashion isn't just about fabric. For Rita, it’s about a specific kind of fearlessness. Back in 2016, she made waves with a shoot by photographer Terry Richardson, and even then, she was vocal about her philosophy. She told Muscle & Fitness that she doesn't see nudity as "risqué." Instead, she views it as something beautiful and fun.
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Fast forward to her recent appearances at the 2025 Academy Museum Gala and various Fashion Week events, and you see that same defiance. She often layers sheer, ethereal fabrics over metallic undergarments, turning the concept of rita ora in the nude into a layered, complex aesthetic rather than just a lack of clothing.
Why the "naked dress" is her signature
- The Chloé Moment: At the 2025 Paris Fashion Week, she wore a transparent black dress that left very little to the imagination. It wasn't just about the exposure; it was the styling—silver undergarments and white stiletto heels that created a sharp, high-contrast look.
- The "All Natural" Vibe: Her music video for "All Natural," directed by her husband Taika Waititi, leaned heavily into a raw, stripped-back aesthetic. She famously wore oversized Y-front underwear (which she clarified weren't Taika’s!) to feel comfortable while dancing.
- Sheer as a Neutral: To Rita, sheer fabric is basically a neutral. We've seen her in NYC heatwaves wearing nothing but a sheer bra and baggy trousers, treating lingerie as everyday streetwear.
Public perception and the "misogyny" of the critique
It’s kind of wild how much people still get worked up over a bit of skin. Rita has been very open about the pushback she receives. In an interview with Glamour UK, she called out the double standards in the industry. She noted that women are often judged more harshly for being "too naked" or "too outspoken."
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She cites Madonna as a major influence—someone who did exactly what she wanted regardless of the "moral" police. By leaning into the rita ora in the nude aesthetic, she’s essentially claiming her right to her own image. It’s a power move.
The Taika Waititi factor
Having a partner who is also a creative powerhouse seems to have fueled her confidence. Taika often directs her more provocative visuals. During the "All Natural" shoot, she joked that he was the one encouraging her to "shoot the back" of the outfit. It’s a collaborative, artistic partnership that celebrates her body rather than trying to hide it.
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The 2026 "Naked Dressing" trend
As we look at the trends defining 2026, "naked dressing" is at the top of the list. Rita didn't just join this trend; she helped build the foundation for it. We’re seeing more designers like Gucci and Coperni embrace the "négligée" as high fashion.
What most people get wrong is thinking this is about sex. It’s usually about the silhouette. Rita has explained that things like "ballet pumps" don't make a foot look "sexual" or "accentuated," which is why she prefers heels and daring cuts that highlight the natural lines of the body.
Actionable insights for embracing "naked" fashion
If you're inspired by Rita’s bold approach but aren't quite ready to walk down the street in a sheer gown, there are ways to channel that energy:
- Layering is your friend: Use sheer tops over high-waisted briefs or a structured bodysuit to get the "naked" look with more coverage.
- Contrast textures: Follow Rita’s lead by pairing delicate, skin-baring pieces with oversized, "tough" items like a bomber jacket or a fluffy maxi coat.
- Confidence is the real outfit: The reason rita ora in the nude works as a concept is because she looks like she doesn't care if you're looking. That "modern goddess" energy comes from within.
- Focus on the art: Think of your outfit as a composition of skin, fabric, and accessories rather than just getting dressed.
The cultural impact of her style choices continues to ripple through the fashion world. By refusing to hide, Rita Ora has turned her own skin into a canvas, challenging us to rethink what it means to be truly "dressed."