Dakota Johnson Proves Sheer Dressing Can Be Demure in Chloé’s Lace Fantasy
Dakota Johnson has solidified her position as one of cinema’s most compelling red carpet presences, and her latest appearance at the Red Sea International Film Festival’s Women in Cinema event proves she shows no signs of relinquishing that crown. The “Materialists” star descended upon Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in a breathtaking white lace confection from Chloé’s Fall 2025 collection that masterfully navigated the intersection of modesty and modern sensuality.
Arriving just one evening after her custom Alessandra Rich gown commanded attention at the “Giant” premiere, Johnson—alongside her trusted stylist Kate Young—accepted the formidable challenge of surpassing themselves. The result was Look 37 from Chloé creative director Chemena Kamali’s latest collection, a gown so perfectly suited to Johnson’s aesthetic that one could believe it was commissioned specifically for her frame.
The dress presented a study in strategic transparency: a sheer bodice and floor-grazing skirt punctuated by tiered lace strips positioned across the sleeves, bust, and hips as the sole opaque elements. This architectural approach to coverage created visual intrigue while maintaining appropriate convention for the venue. A substantial lace ruffle encircling her pelvic area anchored the silhouette, allowing Johnson to showcase her legs and décolletage without compromising the gown’s sophisticated restraint.
What makes this appearance particularly noteworthy is Johnson’s willingness to embrace bohemian-chic territory—a surprising departure for an actress typically associated with sleeker, more architectural silhouettes. Though she’s demonstrated affinity for all-lace constructions previously (her drop-waist Gucci moment at September’s Zurich Film Festival remains memorable), this Chloé interpretation felt decidedly more ethereal and romantic.
In a styling decision that demonstrated editorial confidence, Johnson diverged from the runway presentation, eschewing the double yellow gold medallions Kamali originally paired with the gown. This edit allowed the plunging V-neckline to command attention uninterrupted—a choice that speaks to Johnson and Young’s sophisticated understanding of when less truly means more.
Her accessories whispered rather than shouted: white Paris Texas heels barely visible beneath the ruffled hemline, paired with Chopard jewelry that complemented without competing. The overall effect was one of effortless elegance, as though Johnson had simply floated onto the carpet rather than meticulously constructed a red carpet moment.
Johnson’s festival circuit presence throughout 2025 has been nothing short of exceptional. Appearances at Cannes, Tribeca, Karlovy Vary, and Zurich have consistently landed her on best-dressed compilations, establishing a pattern of sartorial excellence that extends well beyond obligatory promotional dressing. There’s intentionality behind each choice, a clear collaborative vision between actress and stylist that respects both occasion and personal aesthetic.
As film festivals continue bringing out Johnson’s most inspired fashion moments, industry observers remain captivated by her ability to balance contemporary trends—the sheer fabrications, the strategic skin, the bohemian influences defining 2025—with timeless sophistication that will photograph beautifully decades hence.
