News of the Nude, no. 9
A veritable library of news relating to nudism, nudity, and the nude-adjacent from the last five weeks
As autumn takes the wheel and the halcyon days of summer drift into the rearview, the headlines this month reflect this seasonal theme of change. Some naturist spaces are changing for the better, expanding and flourishing; others teeter on the precipice of decline. There are demonstrations promoting change, and backlash against it. We see a couple examples of naturist entrepreneurs embracing change, and generations-old clubs weathering it.
A significant percentage of this month’s stories come from the USA and the UK. Beaches play a prominent role, from clothing-optional stretches of sand to some that aren’t so nude after all, it turns out. We see a few beaches playing the role of host to charitable skinny dips. As you scroll through this month’s stories, you might also take note of how many of them feature images of signs. Why? I don’t know. I count at least six. Could that a sign?
In any event, I hope that this edition of News of the Nude offers context and brings clarity to your broader understanding of the diverse and ever-evolving world of nudity, or at least gives you something to look at for a few minutes. Please enjoy. 🚀
The Rise of the Nudist Barbershop
In Brazil, barbershops and salons are redefining conventional grooming experiences by offering haircuts in the buff. This trend, witnessed in establishments like Barbearia Naturista, Studio Motta, Barbeiro Itinerante, and Spa Naturista, presents a laid-back and welcoming alternative to the often macho atmosphere found in traditional male grooming spaces, which can be particularly alienating for queer individuals who comprise a significant portion of the clientele.
Profiled in the article, Barbearia Naturista’s founder Rodney Araujo envisioned extending nudism's reach beyond beaches and campsites into urban settings. Meanwhile, Rafael Hacoma's Barbeiro Itinerante attracts mainly queer clients who appreciate the liberating and non-judgmental atmosphere. Paolo Motta's Studio Motta exclusively serves gay men, capitalizing on a considerable demand for such spaces.
Customers find the experience liberating and intimate, fostering more open conversations. While it may not be a traditionally “naturist” experience, grooming is a natural environment for social nudity. That the barbershop is also a traditional ‘third place’ environment for socializing makes the nude aspect more interesting and perhaps more rewarding and effective.
In a country like Brazil where high temperatures prevail, embracing nudity as a natural and relaxed aspect of self-care makes great sense. Let’s hope we see this trend move north. 🚀
More reading:
Nude Dating Show Quietly Added to Max Draws Backlash
Warner Bros./Discovery's streaming platform, Max, has recently stirred controversy by featuring the British reality dating series Naked Attraction, known for its frontal nudity in every episode. The uproar, fueled by conservative media outlets like Breitbart, has largely surrounded concerns about children accessing explicit content due to perceived gaps in parental controls. It's worth noting that Naked Attraction has also earned praise for its inclusive representation of diverse body types, sexual orientations, and its commitment to promoting sexual health.
The producers of Naked Attraction are no strangers to controversy. Back in April I reported on a very similar controversy over their other series, Naked Education, for News of the Nude, No. 4. Then, as now, the controversy was fueled by outrage-factory Breitbart.
These episodes of moral panic sometimes explode into widespread controversies; other times, they sputter and fade. Nonetheless, they all contribute to the broader dialogue surrounding nudity in the world, shaping many’s perspectives. For those who believe that mere nudity is not scandalous but rather a normal and healthy aspect of human existence, this constant barrage feels like a ‘death of a thousand cuts’. I believe it's essential for naturists to counter these messages and create opportunities for constructive discussions. 🚀
Read more:
Republican gripes that Merrick Garland didn't respond to his letter about 'World Naked Bike Ride'
We have another development on a story that Planet Nude first wrote about two months ago in News of the Nude, no. 7. This ongoing saga surrounding the World Naked Bike Ride in Madison, Wisconsin, has taken yet another, hopefully final twist.
As previously reported, the controversy began when Dane County supervisor Jeff Weigand called for an investigation after a naked girl participated in the World Naked Bike Ride in Madison. Despite Madison police promptly investigating the complaint and determining that no state or local law had been violated, the issue continued to escalate. Weigand doubled down on his assertion that public nudity "should be" illegal, going so far as to suggest that participants in the ride were "anti-God." Subsequently, Republican Representatives Tom Tiffany and Scott Fitzgerald wrote the U.S. Justice Department a letter demanding a federal probe into the alleged exploitation of a 10-year-old minor at the event, alleging by implication that the state and local authorities had been derelict in their duties.
Now, in a recent Judiciary Committee hearing featuring Attorney General Merrick Garland, Rep. Tiffany raised the issue once more. He pointedly expressed frustration that the Department of Justice had not responded to a letter he sent two months ago concerning the event, specifically citing concerns about the child's participation.
Garland's response to Tiffany's gripe was humorously understated: "It sounds like you're asking [about] state and local law enforcement. Um, We get hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of letters, um, I'll ask the Office of Legislative Affairs where that letter is."
“State and local law enforcement would not act,” Tiffany grumbled. We were hoping you would. It's obvious you're not. I yield.”
Of course, Garland is right. The law was followed, all the appropriate authorities who investigated the complaint found no illegality. Maybe Mr. Tiffany will finally get a clue and stand down. 🚀
Catch up:
Nude beach getting a makeover: Work at popular Blind Creek Beach could start in the fall
Blind Creek nude beach in St. Lucie County, Florida, is undergoing significant improvements, with ADA-compliant restrooms replacing porta-potties, and plans to pave the dirt parking lot. These enhancements are well-received, although concerns about reduced parking spaces have arisen. Still, officials are confident they can manage any potential overflow parking issues. The commitment to safety and organization is commendable, and the renovations aim to enhance accessibility while preserving the beach's charm.
The upgrades planned for Blind Creek nude beach are undeniably a positive development, making it more welcoming and convenient for visitors. While the reduction in parking spaces may raise concerns, the commitment to addressing safety and organization issues is commendable.
Video uploaded by Carl Flick, president of Treasure Coast Naturists
What's remarkable about Blind Creek is the dedicated advocacy and oversight provided by the Treasure Coast Naturists, a group of friends who have worked tirelessly since 2014 to establish and maintain this naturist haven. Their efforts have not only ensured the legality of nude use but have also fostered a welcoming and organized environment that benefits both locals and tourists. The Treasure Coast Naturists have played a pivotal role in preserving this piece of paradise for all to enjoy, and their work is a testament to the positive impact a passionate and organized community can have. 🚀
More to explore:
Nudists' Alton Towers weekend axed – so they plan naked Strictly party instead
For 16 years, British Naturism has hosted an annual "clothes-free" gathering at Alton Towers Resort, featuring activities like yoga, quizzes, and body painting within the resort’s popular water park. However, this very popular event, which attracted over 400 participants in 2022, faced cancellation due to shifts in ownership at Alton Towers' parent company, Merlin Entertainments. Despite exploring various alternatives, such as after-hours sessions and complete venue takeovers, logistical constraints involving hotels and available space rendered these options commercially unfeasible.
In an official statement made back in May, British Naturism expressed deep appreciation for the positive impact the Alton Towers event had on the naturist community. “The advent of the BN Alton Towers weekend—an invitation from the UK’s biggest and best-known theme park for a nude weekend— marked a landmark in the history of BN and Naturism in the UK, also having a positive effect on the perception of our community. We took our first tentative steps there in 2006 and are delighted to have been able to enjoy all those years since. The event has grown in quality and popularity throughout and we will be sad to see it go.” 🚀
Someone installed a 'nude beach' sign at Chicago beach, alderwoman says
Over Labor Day weekend, a humorous hoax unfolded at Chicago's Loyola Beach when a prankster placed a fake Parks District sign declaring the area a nudist park. The sign, which read "Nude Beach Past This Sign," was discovered on the popular beach, located near Loyola University. Alderwoman Maria Hadden shared a photo of the unofficial sign on social media, clarifying that it was not an official Chicago Parks sign and urging beachgoers to adhere to clothing requirements at all city beaches.
Although the prank appears to have been lighthearted, it had historical ties. Hadden mentioned that in 1932, one of her predecessors in the 49th Ward had proposed the creation of a nude sunbathing beach at the same location, just two years before it became Loyola Beach. This proposal aimed to provide a secluded area for nude sunbathing, complete with facilities to ensure privacy and separate spaces for men and women.
Humor and a touch of history converged in this playful prank. This is my kind of prankster. 🚀
More fun:
Northern Ireland naturists are all heart as 50 of them strip-off for a charity skinny dip in Portstewart!
British Naturism Northern Ireland organized a remarkable Great British Skinny Dip event, where participants swam au naturel to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. This initiative not only celebrated the freedom of naturism but also demonstrated the community's commitment to charitable causes. The event, now in its third year, has raised over £4,000, with £1,000 collected this year, showcasing the positive impact that nudist gatherings can have on society.
The Great British Skinny Dip exemplifies the multifaceted nature of nudist advocacy. Beyond the celebration of naturism itself, this event showcases the nudist community's capacity for altruism and philanthropy, something I’ve written about recently here on Planet Nude. It's heartening to see events like this not only promoting body freedom but also contributing to the well-being of society. 🚀
Read more
Women's Institute strip off for charity skinny dip
In a similar story, ten members of the Women's Institute, aged between 50 and 60, made an unconventional splash by skinny dipping in the North Sea at Sugar Sands, Northumberland this month. Initially conceived as a humorous idea, the women bared it all during a sunrise dip, surprising some early-morning dog walkers. What started as a joke quickly transformed into an exhilarating adventure for the Rothbury Women's Institute members. Their audacious plunge raised over £1,700, significantly exceeding their £1,000 fundraising goal, benefiting HospiceCare North Northumberland, an essential service for the region.
The women were partially inspired by the Calendar Girls, another Women’s Institute group known for posing nude to raise money for charity in the early 2000’s (inspiring the 2003 film of the same name starring Helen Mirren and Julie Andrews). These women—who are not naturists, so far as I know—demonstrated confidence and commitment to a charitable cause. Kudos to them for their boldness and altruism.
We just don’t see enough of these sorts of charities in the US. 🚀
Which charity is your hypothetical skinny dip for?
'We turned our narrowboat into a floating nudist hotel with naked yoga and massages'
Fiona and Michael Discombe are a couple living an off-grid naturist lifestyle and blogging about it under the name @NakedTravels. They discovered naturism during their honeymoon in Greece in 1994, sparking a lifelong passion. Traveling the globe to explore naturist destinations, they eventually sold their home and embarked on a European tour in 2022, visiting various naturist sites. Upon returning to the UK, they purchased a 70ft narrowboat and converted it into both their home and a floating hotel for fellow naturists. Their story reflects their transition from a spontaneous nude beach experience to embracing naturism as a way of life, fostering body confidence and liberation.
Michael and Fiona's story has received global coverage in the last month or so, and it's heartening to see the largely positive attention they've received. Their story offers a beautiful and exhilarating glimpse into an alternative way of life. They are living the dream, showcasing how embracing naturism and pursuing naturist experiences can lead to a fulfilling and liberating way of life. In exciting news, Michael and Fiona will be featured in an upcoming episode of the New Nudist Podcast, where they'll share more about their remarkable experiences and their naturist lifestyle. Stay tuned to Planet Nude for this insightful conversation as soon as it’s available! 🚀
More to explore
LGBTQ+ community applauds city’s expansion of Hanlan’s Point clothing-optional beach and recognition as historically queer space
As previously reported on Planet Nude, the clothing-optional beach at Hanlan's Point, Toronto, has been expanded and officially recognized by the city as a historically queer space, a move celebrated by the LGBTQ+ community. The expansion addresses overcrowding issues, and the beach now stretches from Gibraltar Point to Billy Bishop Airport. Public nudity was first legalized at Hanlan's Point Beach in 1894, and it has been a prominent LGBTQ+ space since the 1950s. In 1999, a pilot project declared the beach clothing-optional, and this designation was made permanent in 2002. Recently, Toronto City Council voted to make all of Hanlan's Point Beach clothing-optional and added a historical marker acknowledging its queer history. The changes were part of the Toronto Island Park Master Plan to address beach erosion and overcrowding, caused by factors such as the construction of the Leslie Street Spit, reduced sediment supply, floods, and storms, attributed to climate change.
This development, detailed in the excellently written above article, marks a crucial step in recognizing and preserving Hanlan's Point Beach as an essential historical space for the LGBTQ+ community. Writing for Planet Nude, Curtis Atkins has been diligently tracking these changes, and wrote a comprehensive history of this iconic location, which has the distinct claim of being the oldest known legal nudist beach; a significant piece of nudist history. 🚀
Read more
Nudists Not Welcome at Skinny Dip Falls
In contrast to the above story about a treasured nudist space becoming sanctified, we have this story of the loss of another. Skinny Dip Falls in Chautauqua County, New York, once celebrated as a clothing-optional haven, has undergone a transformation. Signs now mark it exclusively for hunting and fishing, barring nude sunbathers. Local government intervention followed complaints of trespassing, littering, and drinking. Assemblyman Andy Goodell attributes these changes in part to past media coverage that fostered misconceptions about the site's permissiveness. The falls' location on land owned by the Village of Westfield, vital for the village's water supply, has had access restrictions since 1937. Despite opposition to these new rules, government leaders emphasize alternative scenic areas within Chautauqua County while emphasizing clothing requirements.
The tragic loss of clothing-optional spaces like Skinny Dip Falls in recent years is a lamentable trend. Once these unique locales disappear, they rarely return. Such spaces hold profound cultural and personal significance for those who seek the freedom and liberation that comes with shedding societal conventions. As we bid farewell to these cherished spots, we should reflect on the importance of preserving and protecting the few remaining nude spaces.
As for Skinny Dip Falls, it might be time for a name change, lest some litigious nudist gets you for false advertising. 🚀
Marina Abramovic Relents and Adapts a Provocative Piece for Today
In September 1977, Marina Abramovic shocked visitors at the Gallery of Modern Art in Bologna, Italy, with her daring performance art piece "Imponderabilia." Now, 46 years later, she's restaging it at London's Royal Academy of Arts. The work involves two naked performers standing in a doorway, forcing visitors to squeeze past them. However, in today's world, an alternative entryway is available for those uncomfortable with the close encounter. This adaptation reflects a changing approach to controversial art and contemporary mores, and Abramovic acknowledges the need for compromise. As she revisits her historic works, she offers new generations a glimpse into her art. 🚀
Why Florence Pugh Thinks Her Free the Nipple Moment "Scared" Her Haters
For over a year Florence Pugh and her nipples have consistently been in the news. This month, the headlines sprung up after Pugh emphasized her commitment to staying true to herself without filters, in an interview with Elle U.K. In it, she opened up about how her fashion choices have allowed her to feel safe and confident, challenging these misogynistic societal norms along the way.
The Oppenheimer star’s nipples first started garnering press in July 2022 when she attended a Valentino event wearing a see-through gown that prominently displayed her chest buttons. In the above interview she addressed the controversy that followed, reminding everyone that women's bodies have multiple purposes beyond common societal expectations.
The visibility of Florence Pugh’s celebrity is so powerful in the way it has encouraged new discussion in the media around body autonomy and gender equality. Her unapologetic approach to fashion and willingness to embrace her body sends an important message. Pugh has been as transparent in her actions as she has in her dress. Personally, I think that being actually nude is the most chic way to make a statement about body freedom, but I suppose a close second would be to do it wearing a designer dress. Clearly Florence hasn’t shied away from the controversy; she has fiercely defended herself, and defended herself fiercely (in the Christian Syriano sense of the word).
Kudos to Pugh for nipping the haters and changing the script. 🚀
Read more
Man who cycled naked around coast says 'naturists are often misunderstood'
Stuart Gilmour, a self-proclaimed naturist who recently embarked on a charitable naked cycling journey along the Wales Coast Path, finds himself at the center of a familiar narrative for many naturists—misunderstanding and unwarranted legal actions. Despite his noble cause and the positive reception he generally received from passersby, Stuart's ride led to his arrest and a few hours in a cell. Fortunately, CCTV footage vindicated him by confirming that he wasn't indecently exposing himself during the ride.
Stuart staunchly asserts that naturism is primarily about body positivity and self-acceptance, not driven by sexual motivations, and he dispels the idea that nudity equates to sexuality and urges people to reevaluate these misconceptions. His arrest points out the need for a broader societal understanding of naturism and acceptance of its principles. Arresting folks like Stuart for engaging in harmless acts and charitable activities not only infringes on personal freedoms but also perpetuates unwarranted prejudices. 🚀
No more Nudists in Sherwood Forest
Naturists have stirred controversy in Sherwood Forest, famed as Robin Hood's haunt, with reports of their nude presence alarming families and visitors. Naked ramblers and swingers planning outdoor encounters have surprised forest-goers, prompting the RSPB, the forest's owner, to post warnings and encourage respectful behavior among naturists. While naturists have a legal right to be unclothed, respecting others and ensuring a positive experience for all has become a priority. This situation has led to discussions on harmonious coexistence among various groups in shared natural spaces, urging compromise.
It's unfortunate that naturists have unsettled Sherwood Forest, a place steeped in history. Despite these recent concerns, many naturists generally behave respectfully in natural settings. Robin Hood himself might have found this amusing, given his legendary green tights were hardly more concealing!
Enjoying nature in the buff can be freeing, but it must respect others sharing the space. Hopefully, these issues can be resolved through compromise and awareness, fostering harmony in this iconic forest, welcoming all, whether they wear tights, tunics, or nothing at all. 🚀
Children at Burning Man: Don't worry about event's nudity, organizers say. It's artsy.
Burning Man, an event known for its unconventional spirit, is seeing an uptick in families attending alongside concerns about children at events involving nudity. While statistics on the number of kids at Burning Man are incomplete, about 4% of attendees have brought children. Parents believe this exposure to diverse experiences contributes to well-rounded children. They appreciate the event's open attitude towards nudity, considering it a positive example of body acceptance. Kid-focused camps provide guidance on attending with youngsters, reassuring parents that nudity at Burning Man is artistic and not explicit.
However, recent sensational media coverage of children at events like World Naked Bike Rides and Pride parades has raised concerns. These reports often used alarmist language, overshadowing the potential for children to learn about diversity and body positivity in such settings. It's essential to recognize the nuanced nature of these situations and promote informed discussions rather than unfounded panic. 🚀
Read more
Breast day ever: Boulder recognizes ‘Free the Nipple’ movement with topless bike ride
Around 20 people gathered at Boulder's Central Park to support the "Free the Nipple" movement, initially founded in 2012, advocating for women's right to go topless in public spaces. Attendees, which included men, aimed to promote body positivity and challenge societal taboos surrounding public nudity. The event celebrated body liberation and the ongoing effort to destigmatize nonsexual nudity. Organizer Jennie Burns has led Boulder's Free the Nipple group for two years, arranging bike rides and parades to exercise their right to be topless in Colorado. Participants emphasized the empowering and community-building aspects of the event. 🚀
Read more
'What The F*ck Is Going On?': Climate Protesters March Naked Through NYC Streets
Climate activists from Extinction Rebellion made a striking statement in New York City, marching naked through the streets to spotlight the environmental impact of fossil fuels and advocate for a reduced carbon footprint. The protest, known as "Pedal for the Planet," was part of a series of events organized by the group's New York City chapter for the month of September. Participants chose to ride bicycles au naturel, using this unconventional method to symbolize the need for carbon reduction and to protest society's continued reliance on fossil fuels. The event also aimed to promote body positivity by welcoming participants of all body types and backgrounds. 🚀
Protestors stage ‘naked’ demonstration ahead of London Fashion Week
Demonstrators also stripped down outside Somerset House before London Fashion Week in attempt to shed light on the environmental fallout of fashion's seasonal churn. As it turns out, the demonstration was equal parts protest and advertising, as it was organized by the popular pre-owned e-commerce brand Gumtree. The group of remarkably camera-ready protestors sported skin-toned undies and held large Gumtree branded placards with cheeky pun-laden slogans aiming to spotlight how the industry fuels overconsumption and waste. Unsurprisingly, a commercial photographer was there to capture the demonstration.
Though the “nakedness” was clearly a ploy to attract press, and it’s easy to discount any message when it’s crafted and stated by marketing agencies for brands, the message and effort to give second-hand fashion a spotlight on the catwalk is very relevant, and still commendable. Gumtree's Hannah Rouch urged top fashion houses to champion sustainability over the "wear it once" mindset, making “pre-loved” pieces the new norm. If nothing else, the demonstration underscores the fashion world's mounting awareness of its own ecological footprint, and the pressing need for responsible change.
The synergy between sustainable fashion and nudism is intriguing. Both endorse a minimalist, eco-conscious lifestyle. Nudism champions simplicity and reduced materialism, while sustainable fashion fights clothing waste and unethical practices. Nudists and naturists can’t be nude all the time, and everyone must wear clothes. It is very much within the naturist ethos to buy clothes that last, and to buy clothes conscientiously. Embracing nudity transcends personal freedom; it's a green choice. As the fashion realm grapples with its impact, nudism offers a symbol: shedding layers, literally and figuratively, for more sustainable—and more timeless—fashions. 🚀
Essential reading
Welhorny's naturist hotel granted booze licence—but council requests it changes its name
Welhorny's, a gay naturist B&B in Blackpool, has been granted a 24/7 alcohol license, despite concerns it could become a "naughty naked nightclub." The guest house, set to open next month, will serve alcohol continuously but will have closing times of 11 pm, except on Fridays, Saturdays, and Wednesdays when it will close at 2 am. The owners, Darren Yeomans and Paul Richardson, plan to accommodate 15 guests and host larger events a few nights a week. Conditions for the license include guests and visitors being members for 24 hours before being served alcohol, closed windows from 11 pm to 8 am, closed external doors, and a screened-off outside smoking area.
While the decision was welcomed by the owners, some councillors asked them to consider changing the name to something more fitting for a family seaside resort. Three objections were raised against the license, with one objector deeming the name "inappropriate." The council's decision notice acknowledged concerns but expressed support for the business model while urging consideration of a more family-oriented name. Based on the B&B’s public twitter profile and the graphic acts depicted in the videos there (I don’t encourage you to look it up), presumably a more “family friendly” name would be disingenuous.
It’s clear to this author that the B&B is probably not looking to market itself to families. 🚀
Rochelle Humes speechless as nudist This Morning guest shares past encounter
I swear, I am going to have to start a regular segment in News of the Nude just for Helen Berriman appearances.
In the latest, Television host and former pop star Rochelle Humes found herself in an awkward situation on This Morning when Helen casually reminded her they had crossed paths before, giving the audience and her co-host a suspicious giggle. Helen joined the show to discuss the joys of naturism and to promote Clover Spa alongside owner Tim Higgs, and as the interview unfolded, Helen nonchalantly dropped the bombshell that she and Rochelle had met previously. Rochelle, apparently dismayed, acknowledged the encounter to giggles from her cohost, Andi Peters. It isn’t clear whether they’d previously met in a nudist environment, and it seems to have been played as a joke, but that appears to be the side-eyed implication of her cohost.
As I’ve written here before, Helen Berriman's media appearances have become quite prolific. I recently spoke with her about her experiences with the media in an interview for New Nudist podcast. What do you know, I have crossed paths with her too! 🚀
In case you missed it
There’s an 80-acre nudist club hidden in the East Bay Hills
The Sequoians Clothes-Free Club, nestled in the East Bay Hills, has thrived as an 80-acre nudist retreat for over 75 years. Established in 1948 by a group of dedicated members, the club has preserved its unique naturist culture throughout the decades. Sequoians prides itself on offering a family-oriented, wholesome environment where nudity is a requirement, fostering a sense of freedom and liberation among its members.
I really love seeing articles that shed light on small clubs like the Sequoians and their charming, time-honored cultures. These places often exist under the radar, preserving unique ways of life and offering a sense of community that's both heartwarming and intriguing. 🚀
Keep reading
As the pages of this month's News of the Nude fold to a close, I’m reminded that change is the only constant in life, and in the world of naturism, too. So, fellow nudies, let's embrace the season, face the changes, and always remember to let it all hang out. 🪐
On September 27, Wisconsin State Senator Chris Kapenga and Representative Cindi Duchow (both Republicans from Delafield) issued a "co-sponsorship memorandum" seeking support among Wisconsin legislators for two proposed bills, characterized as the "Child Protection Act", specifically targeting the World Naked Bike Ride.
https://www.wkow.com/news/wisconsin-republicans-target-world-naked-bike-ride-with-two-proposals/article_113d7300-5f21-11ee-b393-cfb04eeb3cc0.html
We expect some of our people to get very nervous about this, but I would point out that this isn't even a bill yet, and would have many hurdles to jump before becoming a law.
Evan,
Thank you for compiling this assortment of news articles. The fact that stuck out to me was that Free the Nipple began as a movement in 2012. It seems like that hashtag has been around for so much longer.