Grammys 2013: Talent Scoff at CBS' Fashion Memo: 'We Should Be Allowed to Express Ourselves Artistically' (Video)

“Come on, now. You can’t tell grown-ups what to wear,” balked Ne-Yo.

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He was referring to CBS’ memo heard round the world last week, banning “side boob,” “thong type costumes”  and “puffy bare skin” from Sunday’s red carpet and broadcast.

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Many attendees noted that the rules are meant to be broken (“Just have fun, dammit. Drink!” proclaimed Anthrax bassist Frank Bello), while others stayed well within the confines of the guidelines.

“In all honesty, it wasn’t really an option for me anyway,” said Carly Rae Jepsen, draped in a strapless, glittering Roberto Cavalli gown. “It wasn’t really a big deal.”

Meanwhile, comedian Kathy Griffin -- nominated for best comedy album – predicted that “we’re gonna see a lot of puffy parts tonight.” B-52’s member Kate Pierson added, “I think it’s an invitation to flaunt.”

Rapper Nelly scoffed at the mandate, citing creative freedom as a license to dress as one pleases.

“We should be allowed to express ourselves artistically as we see fit,” he told The Hollywood Reporter, adding coyly: “What would Michelangelo be with restrictions?”

Email: Sophie.Schillaci@THR.com; Twitter: @SophieSchillaci