Cannes is back and with it comes not just red carpet glamour, but a fresh wave of fashion rules that have sparked more buzz than a blockbuster premiere. The 78th Festival de Cannes, kicking off May 13, promises its usual celebration of global cinema, but this year’s spotlight is also on what stars can’t wear.Let’s be real: every year, the red carpet outside the Grand Théâtre Lumière is a runway in itself. From dramatic gowns to dazzling jewels, celebrities turn up to make a statement. But this time, the festival has laid down some strict dress code rules, and they have got people talking.
So, what’s changed?
For the evening gala screenings, usually held around 7 and 10 pm, the festival is tightening the reins. While traditional evening wear is still the standard (think tuxedos, long dresses, and chic cocktail numbers), there are some new limitations that shift the red carpet vibe entirely.
Voluminous gowns with massive trains? Banned. Outfits that make it hard for guests to move or be seated properly? Nope. Backpacks, oversized totes, and large handbags? Not allowed either. Even nudity, intentional or not, is explicitly prohibited.The festival is urging guests to keep it elegant, minimal, and respectful. So if you’re dreaming of walking the carpet in sky-high platforms and a sheer bodysuit… maybe save that for the afterparty.
Can celebrities still serve fashion moments?
Of course! The new guidelines are more about managing the logistics and ensuring decency than stifling creativity. Think sleek silhouettes, well-tailored suits, rich fabrics, and statement accessories that don’t come at the cost of comfort or safety.Cocktail dresses, black or navy suits with ties or bow ties, classy jumpsuits, or a little black dress with elegant shoes are all fair game. Just no sneakers, no drama trains, and definitely no wardrobe shockers.
Who’s representing India this year?
India has a solid lineup walking the iconic Cannes steps in 2025. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor, Karan Johar, Ishaan Khatter, Nitanshi Goel, Vishal Jethwa, and filmmaker Payal Kapadia are among those expected to attend.
Cannes Film Festival prohibits ‘nudity’ and ‘voluminous’ dresses from red carpet for 2025 event
While Cannes veteran Aishwarya is sure to pull off something unforgettable within the new rules, it’s Alia and Nitanshi’s debut appearances that have everyone excited. And with Payal Kapadia serving as a jury member, this year feels especially significant for Indian cinema.
Is the drama gone?
Not quite, just redefined. With designers now challenged to deliver show-stopping looks within a tighter framework, creativity is being channelled in fresh ways. Less excess might just mean more innovation.
Cannes 2025 isn’t about taming fashion, it’s about refining it. And if past years are anything to go by, the red carpet is still going to give us major style inspo. Just a little more practical, a little more polished and definitely still iconic.
