Cannes Film Festival Enforces New Dress Code: A Shift in Red Carpet Fashion
Cannes Film Festival Enforces New Dress Code: A Shift in Red Carpet Fashion

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has introduced a revised dress code for its red carpet events, marking a significant departure from its previous fashion-forward approach. The updated guidelines explicitly prohibit nudity and voluminous outfits, particularly those with large trains that could impede guest movement and complicate seating arrangements. These changes aim to uphold “decency” and align with institutional standards and French law.

Background of the Dress Code Change

Historically, the Cannes red carpet has been a platform for bold and daring fashion choices, often featuring sheer and revealing dresses. Notable examples include Bella Hadid’s 2024 Saint Laurent gown, which garnered significant attention for its transparency. However, the recent surge in such attire, including instances at other high-profile events, has prompted the festival organisers to formalise these dress code restrictions.

Bella Hadid at Cannes Film Festival 2024
Bella Hadid at Cannes Film Festival 2024

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How did it impact the Attendees?

The new regulations have had immediate effects on attendees. Actress Halle Berry, serving as a jury member, had to alter her planned outfit due to its voluminous design, opting instead for a more modest ensemble. Similarly, model Heidi Klum wore a gown with a dramatic train, which, while not explicitly prohibited, drew attention to the ongoing challenges in adhering to the updated guidelines.

Actress Halle Berry at Cannes Film Festival 2025
Actress Halle Berry at the Cannes Film Festival 2025

Industry Reactions

The fashion industry has expressed mixed reactions to the dress code changes. Some stylists and designers view the restrictions as a necessary step to maintain decorum and ensure the smooth operation of the event. Others, however, see it as a stifling of creative expression and a departure from the festival’s tradition of celebrating bold fashion statements.

Despite some backlash, one has to admit that the Cannes Film Festival’s updated dress code represents a significant shift in its approach to red carpet fashion. While the intent is to uphold decency and order, the move has sparked debates about the balance between tradition, creative expression, and evolving societal norms. As the festival progresses, it remains to be seen how these changes will influence future fashion choices and the overall atmosphere of this iconic event.

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