Cannes Film Festival: Ban on nudity and XXL gowns

Cannes. The red carpet in Cannes has always been a catwalk for stars and style queens – but also for fashion-forward women. This could change at the 78th edition (May 13-24).

The organizers announced the dress code in advance: "For reasons of decency, nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in all other areas of the festival. Voluminous clothing, especially those with long trains that impede the smooth flow of guests and complicate seating arrangements in the theater, are not permitted."

The red carpet on the Croisette is always a scene of opulent gowns, bold outfits—and occasionally debates about style and provocation. Models who like to appear in daring, transparent outfits include Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner. Two years ago, Heidi Klum caused a stir with a striking dress that revealed her nipple.

Heidi Klum, model, presenter and entrepreneur, caused a stir at the film festival two years ago.

Source: Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP/dpa

Is the Cannes dress code a response to a trend? Outfits with a lot of nudity seem to be becoming more common on red carpets. Bianca Censori, for example, was seen almost completely naked on the carpet alongside Kanye West at this year's Grammys. Last year, actress Sienna Miller wore a see-through, ruffled dress in Venice and covered her nipples with her hair.

Bianca Censori appeared almost naked with Kanye West at the 67th Grammy Awards.

Source: Jordan Strauss/Invision/dpa

On the other hand, stars sometimes wore very see-through outfits decades ago. The dress code for the evening premieres at Cannes is famously strict. For example, it's forbidden (unlike at the Berlinale) to wear sneakers or carry large bags. Tuxedos and evening dresses are encouraged, but "an elegant top with black trousers and elegant shoes" are also permitted, according to the festival website.

In recent years, the dress code has felt a bit more relaxed. Ten years ago, there was a debate about whether women could wear flat shoes on the carpet—after some women complained that they were denied entry to the festival palace because of their flat shoes.

Hollywood star Julia Roberts walked the red carpet barefoot the following year, and Kristen Stewart demonstratively took off her high heels in front of the photographers in 2018. In 2023, Jennifer Lawrence walked up the steps in flip-flops. It's safe to assume that at least the stars won't adhere to this new dress code either.

RND/dpa