Cannes dress code sparks red carpet controversy

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has always been known for its glamour, cinematic prestige, and iconic red carpet moments. But this year, the spotlight isn’t just on the films, it’s on the fashion police.

A newly enforced dress code banning nudity, sheer dresses, and excessively voluminous gowns has ignited a fiery debate over artistic freedom, fashion expression, and gender norms.

The festival’s decision, reportedly aimed at preserving "decorum" and easing red carpet logistics, has been met with confusion and pushback from celebrities and designers alike.

For many, Cannes is not just a celebration of cinema but a runway of unapologetic elegance and daring creativity, something the new rules appear to stifle.

Supermodel Heidi Klum became the face of defiance when she appeared on the red carpet in a sweeping pink Elie Saab gown complete with a thigh-high slit, intricate floral detailing, and a massive train.

Despite seemingly violating several of the new dress code stipulations, Klum was not turned away. Her dramatic entrance highlighted what critics say is an inconsistent application of the rules, and a public relations headache for the festival.

Meanwhile, actress Halle Berry, a jury member this year, was reportedly asked to change her outfit after it was deemed too revealing. She complied, swapping her planned attire for a more conservative look, but the incident underscored the new policy’s impact on self-expression, especially for women.

The move has drawn backlash not only from fashion critics but also from cultural commentators, who see it as a regressive step for a festival that has long championed boldness and individuality.

Many recalled Cannes’ infamous "Heelgate" in 2015, when women were reportedly barred from entry for wearing flats instead of high heels, sparking global debates on sexism and outdated dress codes.

In response to the growing backlash, some insiders suggest the festival may revisit the rules for future editions, particularly as public figures continue to push the boundaries and provoke conversations on fashion freedom.

For now, the red carpet remains a contested space, not just for showcasing couture, but for negotiating where elegance ends and enforcement begins. One thing’s certain: this year's Cannes Festival has proven that a little tulle, or a lot, can still make a powerful statement.

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has always been known for its glamour, cinematic prestige, and iconic red carpet moments. But this year, the spotlight isn’t just on the films, it’s on the fashion police.

A newly enforced dress code banning nudity, sheer dresses, and excessively voluminous gowns has ignited a fiery debate over artistic freedom, fashion expression, and gender norms.

The festival’s decision, reportedly aimed at preserving "decorum" and easing red carpet logistics, has been met with confusion and pushback from celebrities and designers alike. For many, Cannes is not just a celebration of cinema but a runway of unapologetic elegance and daring creativity, something the new rules appear to stifle.

Supermodel Heidi Klum became the face of defiance when she appeared on the red carpet in a sweeping pink Elie Saab gown complete with a thigh-high slit, intricate floral detailing, and a massive train.

Despite seemingly violating several of the new dress code stipulations, Klum was not turned away. Her dramatic entrance highlighted what critics say is an inconsistent application of the rules, and a public relations headache for the festival.

Meanwhile, actress Halle Berry, a jury member this year, was reportedly asked to change her outfit after it was deemed too revealing. She complied, swapping her planned attire for a more conservative look, but the incident underscored the new policy’s impact on self-expression, especially for women.

The move has drawn backlash not only from fashion critics but also from cultural commentators, who see it as a regressive step for a festival that has long championed boldness and individuality.

Many recalled Cannes’ infamous "Heelgate" in 2015, when women were reportedly barred from entry for wearing flats instead of high heels, sparking global debates on sexism and outdated dress codes.

In response to the growing backlash, some insiders suggest the festival may revisit the rules for future editions, particularly as public figures continue to push the boundaries and provoke conversations on fashion freedom.

For now, the red carpet remains a contested space, not just for showcasing couture, but for negotiating where elegance ends and enforcement begins. One thing’s certain: this year's Cannes Festival has proven that a little tulle, or a lot, can still make a powerful statement.