Sydney Sweeney criticized for wearing sheer blue dress at wedding, a choice that sparked a wave of online debate after she attended Leslie Powell’s nuptials in March. The actress, renowned for her role alongside Glenn Powell in “Anyone But You,” faced scrutiny from social media users who questioned whether her revealing pale blue gown was appropriate for the occasion where the bride wore traditional white.
Sweeney, age 27, made an impression at Glenn Powell’s sister’s wedding, donning a figure-hugging dress featuring peasant-inspired pale blue fabric. While the corseted bodice showcased her curves, the sheer paneling and low-cut design drew attention, with some onlookers accusing her of diverting attention away from the bride. The discussion quickly escalated as photos from the event circulated widely on the internet.
Social Media Reactions: Praise and Criticism Divide Fans
Fans and critics were divided in their responses to Sweeney’s outfit, leading to hundreds of comments online. Certain users were swift to judge, asserting that the light hue and striking fit diminished the focus on Leslie, the bride. However, supporters felt the backlash was exaggerated, noting that the dress was pale blue, clearly distinct from white, and appeared to be approved by Leslie herself since she shared the images publicly.

One user commented,
“Am I the only one that doesn’t see the problem? It’s a pale blue ffs. The bride clearly doesn’t care since she’s posted the pic herself,”
—User, Social Media Contributor. Acceptance from Leslie, as well as posts celebrating the day, seemed to quell some of the controversy, yet the conversation about acceptable guest attire at weddings persisted across platforms.
Viral Swimsuit Photos Fuel Further Controversy Over Privacy
The scrutiny around Sweeney did not end with the wedding. As images of the actress relaxing in a bikini around her $13.5 million Florida mansion spread last winter, a second round of debate ignited, this time focusing on celebrity privacy. Unposed and makeup-free, Sweeney was photographed by unknown individuals, leading her fans to express outrage over what they viewed as an invasion of privacy.
One widely liked response stated,
“Filming her in her own house crosses a significant line. Respect her privacy.”
—User, Social Media Commenter. Another added,
“Well, that’s a massive invasion of privacy!! Photographing her at her home is wrong.”
—User, Social Media Observer. Thousands of users agreed with calls for greater respect regarding celebrities’ private lives, especially when they are off duty and at their personal residences.
Positive Engagement as Sweeney Shares Her Own Moments
Despite recent controversies, Sweeney managed to attract overwhelmingly positive attention when she chose to share candid moments herself. In a spring Instagram upload, the actress posed on the water with her dog, wearing sweatpants and referencing good times and “tan lines.” Fans responded enthusiastically, liking the post over 3 million times, demonstrating a clear divide between reactions to unsolicited paparazzi images and authentic moments celebrities choose to share.
Impact and Ongoing Discussion on Celebrity Boundaries
The debate following Sydney Sweeney’s appearance at Leslie Powell’s wedding highlights the persistent scrutiny facing celebrities, especially concerning expectations for public events and respect for personal boundaries. Whether focused on fashion choices that spark etiquette questions or on calls for privacy at home, the reaction reveals a conflicted audience and an ongoing dialogue about the treatment of public figures. As Sweeney continues her career, these discussions are certain to influence both the public’s perspective and broader norms around celebrity culture.
