Anne Hathaway emerged as a fashion icon long before her stunning transformation in "The Devil Wears Prada." While many celebrities shied away from revealing outfits in the early 2000s, Hathaway dared to break the mold, setting the stage for a more liberated approach to fashion in Hollywood.

Back in the early aughts, only a few bold stars such as Halle Berry and Sarah Jessica Parker took fashion risks that flaunted their bodies, but Hathaway was right there, carving her own unique path. Just after gaining fame from "The Princess Diaries," she was unapologetic in her choices, disregarding what was deemed acceptable by the masses.

One notable moment occurred in 2013 when Hathaway’s daring fashion choice sparked a whirlwind controversy dubbed "Dressgate.” At the Oscars, she wore a striking pink dress that some perceived as giving off a "nipple" effect. This backlash came just a year after filmmaker Lina Esco ignited the #FreeTheNipple movement, highlighting the ongoing fight for women’s bodily autonomy and freedom of expression. Despite the misinterpretation of her stylish look—which was not sheer and should not have triggered controversy—Hathaway felt compelled to clarify her fashion choice amidst the uproar.

Fast forward to today, and the tides have turned dramatically; celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Emily Ratajkowski, and Florence Pugh are openly showcasing their bodies on red carpets, thanks in part to trailblazers like Hathaway who dared to push boundaries in their time.

Below are five standout moments where Hathaway truly "freed the nipple," igniting change and inspiring a new wave of acceptance in Hollywood.

1. The Ruched LBD (2002)

Hathaway first made a statement in 2002 at a special screening for *Chicago*. Donning a ruched dress inspired by the 1920s flapper era, she played with the concept of defiance against conventional dress codes. The ethereal dress, with its clever cinched detailing, was perfectly complemented by elegant pointed pumps, showcasing her willingness to bear skin in an age of moderation.

2. The Edgy Premiere Look (2003)

At the premiere of *School of Rock*, Hathaway upped the ante with a rock ‘n’ roll-themed style that included a ruffled minidress and studded knee-high boots. While her outfit was very much in line with early 2000s trends, the transparency of her dress pushed the envelope significantly further than many of her peers dared to venture.

3. The Sparkly LBD (2015)

Returning to the revealing style over a decade later, Hathaway wowed audiences at the premiere of *The Intern*. Her asymmetrical black dress dazzled, featuring a one-shoulder design and intricate embroidery. With thin mesh panels that drew attention to her femininity, it was a clear nod to the fashion evolution and her fearless attitude toward self-expression.

4. The Iconic Punk Dress (2013)

At the *PUNK: Chaos to Couture* themed Met Gala, Hathaway took fashion risks to new heights in a striking Valentino couture dress. The elaborate gown, adorned with beading and feathered details, left little to the imagination with its sheer design, perfectly embodying the punk aesthetic. Her short, bleached pixie cut only amplified her audacious look, solidifying her status as a fashionista.

5. The Oscar Controversy (2013)

No discussion of Hathaway's daring fashion choices would be complete without mentioning her infamous Oscar dress. The elegant pink Prada gown, which featured pointed darts intended for a sophisticated silhouette, ended up generating significant debate over its "nipple-like" appearance. Even as she went home with the Best Supporting Actress award for *Les Misérables*, the dress sparked commentary about body image and fashion norms. Hathaway humorously recounted her husband's reassuring words during the dress selection process, indicating how notorious the evening became.

Regardless of the opinions surrounding her fashion choices, Anne Hathaway’s continued willingness to embrace her body and its representation has undeniably paved the way for a more liberated and accepting industry. As Hollywood evolves, it is clear that Hathaway’s bold approach has been instrumental in shifting the narrative around women's fashion and autonomy. Keep an eye on how she, and others, will continue to inspire with their fearless styles!