Yuri Antonov, a People’s Artist of Russia, spoke with the publication Paragraph about the idea of introducing a dress code for pop entertainers. He suggested that stage appearances should respect a standard of decency and stop short of nudity or semi-nudity. Antonov argued that such displays cross moral boundaries and can erode the public’s sense of propriety. Yet he also emphasized that artists should have freedom in how they present themselves, as long as their choices are within tasteful bounds. He noted that personal taste plays a role in fashion, and discrimination based on clothing choices is not the right path. In his view, keeping the focus on artistry rather than provocative outfits helps preserve a respectful artistic environment while still allowing individuality to shine.
The veteran artist recalled how, during the Soviet era, performers could be sanctioned or even banned from appearing in certain outfits. He opposed those punitive measures, stressing that censorship of dress does not align with his understanding of artistic freedom. Antonov suggested that moderation should guide dressing styles rather than punitive rules, enabling performers to express themselves while avoiding gratuitous exposure.
On December 20, a notable social event took place at the Mutabor club, organized by blogger Nastya Ivleeva. The event featured a dress code that called for attendees to arrive half-naked, sparking a wave of discussion about boundaries in public fashion and performance. Among the attendees were celebrities such as Ksenia Sobchak, Olga Orlova, Philip Kirkorov, Glukoza, Lolita Milyavskaya, Oksana Samoilova, rapper Vacio, and Dzhigan. The explicit theme drew sharp criticism from many observers who felt it pushed the envelope too far for a public gathering. The ensuing discourse highlighted how public figures navigate visibility, style, and responsibility when events hinge on provocative dress norms.
Following the backlash, Ivleeva and several participants offered apologies on behalf of the party, acknowledging that the concept may have crossed lines for some attendees and spectators. The episode underscored the ongoing debate over where entertainment ends and decorum begins in contemporary public life. It also illustrated the complexities that influencers face when curating experiences intended to shock or amuse a large audience, while trying to maintain a sense of accountability for their actions.
Earlier in the legal arena, the Moscow Khamovnichesky Court had returned a claim against Ivleeva for one billion rubles, a decision that added another layer of public scrutiny to the case. The incident reflects the intertwined nature of celebrity, media, and the legal system in shaping cultural norms and commercial outcomes in the entertainment industry.