The Cannes Film Festival 2025 is opening with headlines before a single screening begins, thanks to its updated red carpet dress code.
In a move that’s already stirring conversation across celebrity circles and social media, organizers have officially banned nudity and overly voluminous outfits on the iconic steps of the Palais des Festivals.
The revised charter, published just ahead of the 78th edition’s opening on May 13, 2025, reads:
“For decency reasons, nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in any other area of the festival. Voluminous outfits, in particular those with a large train, that hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theater are not permitted.”
The policy comes after years of sheer gowns and bold fashion risks on the Croisette. From Bella Hadid’s nearly-nude Alexander Vauthier moment to Kendall Jenner’s see-through La Perla gown, Cannes has often doubled as a runway for boundary-pushing couture. But this year, the festival is drawing a firmer line, visibly and literally.
A representative from Cannes’ press office told The Hollywood Reporter that these red carpet dress code rules aren’t entirely new but are being clarified and formally enforced. The intent, they say, is not to police style but to avoid nudity in accordance with French public decency laws, and to keep traffic flowing in tight spaces like the Grand Théâtre Lumière.
They emphasized that full nudity is the concern, not sheer or risqué fashion per se, although how this will be interpreted remains to be seen.
The updated guidelines stress traditional evening wear:
- For women: Cocktail dresses, pantsuits, long dresses, and elegant shoes or sandals (with or without heels).
- For men: Black or navy suits with a bowtie or dark-colored tie.
- Large bags, tote bags, and backpacks are banned.
These rules specifically apply to the red carpet and premieres, where seating logistics and media attention make outfit regulation more critical.
This isn’t the first time Cannes has made headlines over red carpet etiquette. Back in 2015, women were reportedly turned away for not wearing high heels. And in 2018, long-time festival director Thierry Frémaux criticized red carpet selfies as “ridiculous and grotesque,” though they were never officially banned.
This year’s fashion crackdown is drawing mixed reactions. Some argue the festival is doubling down on elitism and old-school formality, while others see it as a necessary step to maintain decorum and avoid spectacle.
Stylists and stars attending Cannes 2025 will now have to tread more carefully, both literally and sartorially. Sheer dresses may still be allowed, but anything that pushes into “nudity” territory risks being stopped at the carpet by security. Large gowns with sweeping trains may also be flagged for blocking access or complicating seating.
Expect to see more sleek silhouettes, elevated tailoring, and structured couture, rather than over-the-top theatrics or viral gimmicks.
