Roll out the red carpet because the Cannes Film Festival is here… The grand event begins today, but this time, it has introduced a stricter dress code for its 78th edition, sparking debate among fashion enthusiasts and celebrities.
Announced on May 12, 2025, via the festival’s official charter, the updated guidelines target the red carpet, particularly for gala screenings at the Grand Théâtre Lumière, aiming for “decency” and “efficiency.”
As clearly stated on the event’s official FAQ website, a firm line has been drawn against specific sartorial choices.
“Nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in any other area of the festival,” the guidelines assert, citing “decency reasons.” Furthermore, those grand, sweeping silhouettes that often define cinematic red carpets will face limitations.
“Voluminous outfits, particularly those with a large train, that hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theatre are not permitted.”
However, the website does offer a glimpse of flexibility within these parameters, listing alternative styles that men and women can choose to wear within the somewhat vague umbrella of “eveningwear.”
Even footwear faces specific constraints. It is narrowed down to “elegant shoes and sandals with or without a heel,” explicitly banning sneakers’ casual comfort.
Festival staff are instructed to deny red carpet access to anyone violating these rules, raising questions about consistency, especially for A-list stars or brand ambassadors from partners like L’Oréal or Chopard, who have historically worn daring looks. The official word from the festival is unequivocal: “The Festival welcoming teams will be obligated to prohibit red carpet access to anyone not respecting these rules,” a stern warning amplified by the added statement that “for all other screenings, proper attire is sufficient.”
