Despite a new ban on nudity and “voluminous outfits,” Cannes’ opening ceremony was a showcase of grand fashion, with massive dresses stealing the spotlight. The red carpet remained as glamorous as ever, defying efforts to tone down extravagant attire.
See the looks from Cannes’ opening ceremony after the festival banned big dresses and nude looks

Key Takeaways:
- The Cannes Film Festival banned nudity and “voluminous outfits” from events.
- Long trains and massive dresses were still prominent at the opening ceremony.
- The red carpet continued to draw attention for its glamorous fashion.
- The new dress code had little effect on attendees’ fashion choices.
- The event was reported by the Associated Press on May 13, 2025.
Fashion Defies Restrictions at Cannes Opening Ceremony
Introduction
The Cannes Film Festival in France, renowned for its glittering red carpet and high-fashion displays, recently implemented a ban on nudity and “voluminous outfits” from its events. However, the opening ceremony proved that glamour is not so easily subdued.
Details of the Ban
In a bid to perhaps shift focus or redefine event aesthetics, festival organizers announced restrictions targeting revealing attire and oversized gowns. The ban specifically addressed nudity and the wearing of “voluminous outfits” on the red carpet and beyond.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
Despite these new rules, attendees graced the red carpet adorned in massive dresses with long trains that captivated onlookers and photographers alike. The evening was a testament to the enduring allure of extravagant fashion at Cannes.
Attendees’ Response
The choice to wear such grand attire suggests that festival guests prioritized personal expression and tradition over compliance with the new dress code. The prominence of these outfits highlighted a collective disregard for the imposed limitations.
Impact on Festival Image
The apparent ineffectiveness of the ban raises questions about its enforceability and the festival’s ability to regulate attendee fashion. Cannes has long been synonymous with opulence and style, and the opening ceremony reaffirmed this legacy.
Conclusion
The Cannes Film Festival’s attempt to curb certain fashion choices met with overt resistance, as the red carpet remained a stage for bold and voluminous designs. The opening ceremony illustrated the challenge of implementing such bans in a setting where personal expression and spectacle are integral to the event’s global appeal.