It ruled the red carpet in the early 2010s, and now ‘side boob’ is officially back on trend.
While the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson helped catapult the side cleavage look to fame some years ago, it’s currently having a red carpet renaissance with the support of Rebecca Ferguson, Teyana Taylor and Jenna Ortega.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, celebrity stylist Lisa Talbot said: ‘Once a daring 1990s club-and-red-carpet moment, the side-boob cutout became shorthand for sexy minimalism, showing just enough skin to feel bold without going full bust-out.
‘After a quieter few years, the trend has exploded back into the spotlight on recent awards show red carpets, updated with a more refined, couture-meets-modern aesthetic.
‘Designers are strategically cutting into gowns and tailoring to reveal the side silhouette of the bust, creating looks that feel both provocative and unexpectedly elegant, if styled with confidence and care.
Read on to discover the expert’s verdict on recent celebrity looks, and her top tips for those wanting to recreate while keeping it classy.
Jenna Ortega
Actress Jenna Ortega is seen at the 83rd Golden Globes at The Beverly Hilton in California in January
Lisa: ‘Jenna’s gown featured a precise, understated side-boob panel that added edge without overwhelming her silhouette.’
Verdict: Chic
Teyana Taylor
One Battle After Another star Teyana Taylor opted for a bold red gown at the 28th Costume Designers Guild Awards in Los Angeles last month
Lisa: ‘A sculptural, asymmetric gown with a subtle side cutout that showcased Teyana’s athletic form.’
Verdict: Sleek
Rebecca Ferguson
Rebecca Ferguson donned a metallic slip dress at the global premiere of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man in Birmingham on Monday
Lisa: ‘Rebecca’s gown paired a striking cutout with flowing fabric, merging drama and elegance seamlessly.’
Verdict: Dramatic
Ariana Grande
Pictured: Singer Ariana Grande at the 2025 EE BAFTA Film Awards at The Royal Festival Hall in London last month
Lisa: ‘Ariana’s version balanced her signature high-fashion edge with simplicity, keeping the side reveal tastefully framed.’
Verdict: Sophisticated
Emma Stone
Bogonia actress Emma Stone donned a plunging velvet gown at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards in London last month
Lisa: ‘Emma’s take was restrained and sophisticated – the side detail was minimal and paired with classic tailoring.’
Verdict: Elegant
Mia Goth
Pictured: Mia Goth at the 83rd annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, in January
Lisa: ‘Mia pushed boundaries with a daring, almost architectural cut that made a rebellious fashion statement.’
Verdict: Avant-garde
Ana de Armas
Actress Ana de Armas joined the trend at the premiere of Ballerina in California in June last year
Lisa: ‘Ana’s gown used a sleek side-boob slit to accentuate her Hollywood glam, with the rest of the dress kept streamlined.’
Verdict: Glamorous
DO
- Keep it balanced – If the side cutout is bold, opt for simpler lines elsewhere.
- Choose one side only – Double cutouts can quickly look too busy; one strategic reveal feels more refined.
- Mind the support – Good internal structure or built-in support keeps the look elegant, not sloppy.
- Pair with modest elements – A longer skirt or higher neckline offsets the skin shown at the side.
- Wear confidence – A little reveal goes a long way; how you carry it matters most.
DON’T
- Over-expose – Too much side skin without balance can feel less intentional and more wardrobe malfunction-adjacent.
- Mix with busy embellishment – Leave heavy beading or loud prints off dresses with side cutouts to avoid visual overload.
- Ignore tailoring – A poor fit can make even an expensive dress look unfinished.
