Emma Watson surprises everyone by going topless for Vanity Fair shoot

Emma Watson is a lot of things: actress, model, feminist and activist. But what she isn’t (until now), is a celebrity with an inclination to go nearly-naked for magazine shoots.

The 26-year-old has succeeded in surprising everyone with a topless shoot for Vanity Fair. Posing sans bra in the magazine’s March issue, the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ star looks fierce – and flawless.

Despite the lack of underwear, it’s still an incredibly dignified shoot – like all of legendary photographer Tim Walker’s work. Emma’s modesty is protected by a white, caged cape from Burberry (fresh from the brand’s recent London Fashion Week show collection), paired with an Elizabethan inspired ruff.

But the shoot hasn’t gone down well with everyone. The actress, who’s a UN ambassador for women’s rights, has been branded a “hypocrite” by some.

Daily Mail columnist Julia Hartley-Brewer wrote: “Feminism, feminism… gender wage gap… why oh why am I not taken seriously… feminism… oh, and here are my t***.”

But not everyone was upset by the photos. A number of social media users praised the star’s “amazing” photos (and assets).

In the accompanying interview, Emma talks about coming of age. “When I finished (Beauty And The Beast), it kind of felt like I had made that transition into being a woman on-screen.

“I’ve been doing this since I was 10 or 11, and I’ve often thought, I’m so wrong for this job because I’m too serious; I’m a pain in the ass; I’m difficult; I don’t fit. But as I’ve got older, I’ve realised, No! Taking on those battles, the smaller ones and the bigger ones, is who I am.”

Emma Watson dazzles in eco-friendly gown at ‘Beauty and the Beast’ premiere

Emma Watson reigns at the ELLE Style Awards in dreamy Dior