Cannes 2025: The Most Memorable Red Carpet Looks So Far

At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a new dress code banning sheer and voluminous gowns was enforced, sparking both compliance and controversy among attendees. While some stars adhered to the guidelines, others used the red carpet as a platform for self-expression, challenging it with their bold fashion choices. This juxtaposition also highlighted the ongoing tension between institutional regulations and personal style, speaking to the dynamics of red carpet fashion at one of cinema's most prestigious events.

Cannes 2025 - Best Red Carpet Looks

Here is The Hollywood Reporter India's list of the most memorable looks at the festival so far.

Stella Maxwell

Stella Maxwell made a statement at Cannes 2025, unapologetically defying the festival’s newly imposed dress code. While sheer and voluminous gowns were officially banned just hours before the event, Maxwell arrived in a rather daring, see-through lace gown by designer Cheney Chan. The striking ensemble showcased the label’s signature Feng Ya Qi silhouette, their trademark blend of sensuality and structure. The delicate lace base left little to the imagination, turning heads and of course, igniting conversation. Her look was, perhaps, a subtle act of defiance, reaffirming the red carpet as a place for fearless personal expression, even amidst tightening fashion constraints.

Halle Berry

Jury member Halle Berry faced an unexpected sartorial challenge after festival organisers implemented a sudden red carpet dress code just hours before the opening. The new guidelines banned nudity, oversized gowns and elaborate trains — rules that rendered Berry’s planned Gaurav Gupta couture gown unwearable. Known for its dramatic design, the Gupta creation was deemed too voluminous under the updated regulations. Speaking at a press conference, Berry expressed understanding rather than frustration, saying, “I had an amazing dress by [Gaurav] Gupta to wear tonight, and I cannot wear it because the train’s too big." She didn’t express any resentment, though. “I had to make a pivot. But the nudity part, I do think, is probably also a good rule." Instead, she swapped the elaborate gown for a sleek, minimalist black-and-white halter-neck dress by Jacquemus. Gupta also responded by saying that while the moment couldn’t unfold as planned, the intention behind the look still held meaning.

Irina Shayk

As expected, Irina Shayk turned up the drama at the Dossier 137 premiere during Cannes 2025, signalling a striking shift from her more reserved appearances earlier in the festival. Dressed in a black Elie Saab Spring 2025 Haute Couture gown, Shayk brought in some of her signature mystery to the red carpet. The strapless mermaid silhouette, adorned with crystals and cascading feathers was paired with sheer opera gloves and a bold red lip. Her wet-look hairstyle sparked mixed reactions, but it undeniably amplified the mood. However, it was one of her off-duty looks that caught most attention; the one where she wore an ivory suit with a Chopard diamond necklace, and well, flip flops. Along with minimal make-up and a little white clutch, she's proved that she remains ahead of the curve.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman brought in some much-needed old Hollywood glamour in a custom Dior gown inspired by a 1951 archival design. The strapless black and silver gown featured a sequin-encrusted bustier and a voluminous A-line velour skirt, embroidered with feather-like crystal motifs. A velvet bow detail added vintage charm, while a structured can-can underskirt gave it that classic couture shape. Portman elevated the ensemble with Tiffany & Co. diamond jewellery; most notably a 10-carat floral-inspired necklace. Having previously worn another archival Dior piece at Cannes in 2023, Natalie has established herself as one of the red carpet’s most thoughtful and consistent fashion storytellers.

Veena Praveenar Singh

Indian-Thai model Veena Praveenar Singh has been the talk of the town at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Dressed in a silver Michael Cinco gown with a corseted bodice and voluminous layered skirt, Singh made a bold statement accentuated by diamond jewels and a sleek bun, and was nothing short of cinematic. Off the red carpet, the rising star had a moment of global recognition when Bella Hadid praised her beauty, calling her “to die for” in a widely circulated video. Her second look, a turquoise strapless gown, was equally captivating, echoing her cultural roots with a contemporary edge.