The Cannes Film Festival, which kicks off on May 13 in France, has introduced a stricter dress code this year, taking a stand against revealing and risqué fashion that has recently dominated its red carpets.
The move comes amid growing criticism of celebrity outfits that prioritize shock value over elegance, with Bianca Censori’s controversial Grammys look cited as one of the inspirations behind the crackdown.
In recent years, the festival has gained as much attention for red carpet fashion as it has for its cinematic offerings.
However, this year’s edition will launch with new rules aimed at restoring decorum, starting with the screening of French director Amélie Bonnin’s Leave One Day.
Festival organizers have declared a firm stance against what they describe as “naked dresses” — outfits that expose more than they cover.
“For decency reasons, bareness is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as any other area of the festival,” a festival document states.
The guidelines emphasize that access to the red carpet will be denied to anyone who fails to comply with the dress standards.
These updated rules are part of a broader charter for festival-goers, outlining acceptable public behavior throughout the event.
Attendees are expected to gather at the prestigious Grand Auditorium Louis Lumière, where a full schedule of high-profile screenings will unfold over seven days.
The venue, in line with the new policy, is adopting a more conservative dress approach. Traditional attire such as suits, tuxedos, and floor-length gowns will now take precedence over daring fashion choices.
The festival has also listed acceptable alternatives, including cocktail dresses, pant-suits, classic little black dresses, elegant shirts, and fashionable sandals, either flat or heeled.
While the implementation of these guidelines is new, it remains uncertain whether television networks like France Télévisions — which airs major red carpet events — influenced the policy due to concerns about broadcasting nudity.
The Cannes red carpet, once a stage for film stars, has in recent years seen an influx of models and influencers who often push the boundaries of fashion.
This shift has reportedly prompted organizers to reclaim the red carpet’s image as a space of sophistication and cinematic prestige.
