Nip Slips & Trends: From Studio 54 To Today's "Free The Nipple"

Betty Green 18 May 2025

Is the idea of a bare chest in public still a scandal in this day and age? The ongoing debate surrounding exposed nipples reveals a complex interplay of societal norms, legal restrictions, and evolving fashion trends that continues to challenge established notions of modesty and freedom.

From accidental slips to deliberate statements, the exposure of nipples, particularly female nipples, has sparked controversy and ignited conversations across various platforms, ranging from fashion runways to social media feeds. The issue delves into questions of equality, censorship, and the evolving landscape of body image in the 21st century.

Aspect	Details
Legal Status (Los Angeles)	It is currently illegal for women to go topless in Los Angeles.
Social Perception	Exposure of nipples is often considered immodest, and in some instances, viewed as lewd or indecent behavior.
Fashion Trend	The "free the nipple" movement aims to normalize female toplessness in public, advocating for equality with men.
Censorship	Nipple exposure has faced obstacles due to censorship by American media.
Accidental Exposure	Many celebrities have experienced "nip slips" either on camera or walking down the street. Chrissy Teigen, Doja Cat, and other public figures have had such moments.
Deliberate Protest	Exposing the entire breast and nipple can be a form of protest for some individuals.
Historical Context	Throughout history, nipples have embodied different meanings, including fashion statements. In 1969, an actor at Studio 54 sported trends like mary janes, exposed thongs, naked dresses, and exposed nipples.
"Free the Nipple" Campaign	A campaign and film with a message of equality have spread, using the hashtag #freethenipple to advocate for women's freedom to have exposed nipples in public.
Boob Shapes and Nipples	There are different types of breasts and nipples, and each person might have a different size, shape, or areola color.
Slingshot Ride Incident	A Twitter video showing two young women on a 'slingshot' ride in Myrtle Beach went viral after one of them experienced a wardrobe malfunction.

The movement, often symbolized by the hashtag #freethenipple, argues that women and femmes should have the same freedom as men to be topless in public. This perspective challenges societal norms that sexualize and censor female bodies, advocating for equality in self-expression.

The debate extends beyond the realm of activism into the world of fashion. In 1969, at the iconic Studio 54, an unnamed actor boldly embraced several trends that resonate even today: mary janes, the exposed thong, the naked dress, and, of course, exposed nipples. This audacious display highlights the cyclical nature of fashion and the recurring theme of pushing boundaries.

Years later, in 2003, Anne Hathaway made a statement of her own at the "School of Rock" premiere, appearing braless in a nearly sheer brown top. While not explicitly part of the "free the nipple" movement, this choice signaled a departure from conventional red-carpet attire.

Of course, the path to normalization is not always smooth. Accidental exposures, or "nip slips," remain a source of public fascination. Celebrities like Chrissy Teigen and Doja Cat have found themselves in the spotlight after such incidents, demonstrating the ongoing scrutiny faced by women in the public eye. The model accidentally freed the nipple in a super sheer silver gown at the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar party, which exposed her left nipple for a moment.

Chrissy accidentally flashed her nipple during a very important Snapchat video about her spray tan on October 25, 2017. After fans alerted her of the nip slip, Chrissys assistant took down the snap.

The legal landscape further complicates the issue. In Los Angeles, for example, it remains illegal for women to go topless. Moreover, legal precedents, such as a case in Erie, Pennsylvania, that went to the U.S. Supreme Court, underscore the varying interpretations and enforcement of public decency laws.

The concept of nipple exposure has historically been subject to censorship by American media, reflecting underlying societal anxieties and moral judgments. However, as attitudes evolve, so too does the representation of the human body in art, entertainment, and everyday life.

In contrast to the "free the nipple" ethos, the early 2000s saw a rise in the popularity of exposed thongs, indicating a shift in focus toward different forms of revealing fashion. These trends highlight the ever-changing dynamics of what is considered acceptable or provocative.

The incident on the "slingshot" ride in Myrtle Beach, where two young women experienced a wardrobe malfunction, serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of choosing revealing attire. This viral moment, capturing over 1.2 million views, illustrates the fine line between personal freedom and public perception.

The Kardashians star had to catch her black bralette from completely falling off her left breast. The incident, caught on camera, became another example of the constant balancing act celebrities face between self-expression and the ever-watchful eye of the public.

The debate extends to Instagram, where Nicki Minaj and other female celebrities have posted photos that push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable. Such acts often spark controversy, yet also contribute to a broader conversation about female empowerment and body positivity. Fortunately for her (and you pervs out there), Nicki is not the first female celebrity to post a photo like that to Instagram, so she was able to move on quickly.

Exposing the entire breast and nipple is a form of protest for some and a crime for others. The exposure of nipples is usually considered immodest and in some instances is viewed as lewd or indecent behavior.

The nuanced nature of nipple exposure is further highlighted by the fact that there are various shapes and sizes of breasts and nipples. Each person's anatomy is unique, encompassing different sizes, shapes, and areola colors. The diversity of the human body underscores the absurdity of imposing rigid standards of modesty.

This season's trend we can't show you on television, but it's a craze that we can't ignore. Viewer discretion is advised.

Throughout history, nipples have embodied different meanings, including fashion statements. However, nipple exposure has faced obstacles due to censorship by American media.

Gorgeous looks from the spring runways will inspire you to free the nipple.

Pokies, appearing in public, going unnoticed. posed or staged images will be rejected.