The Cannes Film Festival is now open, and the world’s most recognisable stars are flooding into the resort city on the French Riviera.
Not only a respected celebration of the art of filmmaking and a competition, but the festival is one of the most glamourous events of the year.
It hosts plenty of high profile film premieres, but the city also welcomes extravagant galas, dinners and celebrity appearances during the festival’s 10-day run.
For those of us viewing from afar, that all adds up to some very starry moments, on and off the red carpet.
Though we know all this, in this casual era, it’s always a bit of a surprise how extra the fashion really is. Think high voltage, movie star opulence – outfits with colour, sequins, flounces and frills and necks draped with the most exquisite precious jewels.
The French festival has worked hard to maintain this elevated reputation, but last year some of the red-carpet rules, installed to maintain that level of sophistication, raised eyebrows. Namely the banning of so-called ‘naked dresses’ for decency reasons, as well any overly voluminous silhouettes or trains.
It made us laugh to note some attendees clearly didn’t get the memo or disregarded it completely, (See Heidi Klum in her metres-long frilled gown), and it seems this year will see more of the same.
Demi Moore was one of the first to flout that directive in 2026, walking the carpet in a sheer purple Gucci gown, the weightless organza billowing behind her as she moved.
This year the dress code guidance includes the above, but adds a few more details.
“For the Grand Théâtre Lumière gala screenings taking place around 7 and 10pm evening wear (long dress, tuxedo) is required,” states the Festival website.
“Alternatively, you may also wear “a little black dress,” a cocktail dress, a dark-colored pantsuit, a dressy top with black pants; elegant shoes and sandals with or without a heel (no sneakers); a black or navy-blue suit with bow-tie or dark-colored tie. Tote-bags, backpacks or large bags are prohibited.”
Is it an unpopular opinion that we LOVE a clear and direct dress code?
Perhaps given Demi is a member of this year’s jury, she can flout the rules a little. We can’t deny she looks captivating, as she did in another event the day prior, poued into a Jacquemus gown paired with a collar of Chopard diamonds.
It remains to be seen who else will be grabbing the spotlight this year.
What they wore: Cannes Festival 2026 Red Carpet looks:
Jane Fonda
Gillian Anderson
