CANNES, France — The Cannes Film Festival has officially banned nudity on its red carpet, signaling a potential end to the era of the “naked” dress—a trend that has dominated high-profile events in recent years.
The updated dress code, published on the festival’s website just 24 hours before its grand opening on Tuesday, states that “nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in any other area of the festival.” The decision, made “for decency reasons,” directly targets the sheer, skin-baring gowns that have become a staple for celebrities seeking attention and viral moments.
A Shift in Red Carpet Style
The ban could dramatically alter the aesthetic of this year’s festival. Last year, bold sheer looks were everywhere: Bella Hadid wore a sandy-brown Saint Laurent gown with a completely transparent halter neck, while photographer Nadia Lee Cohen opted for a slinky see-through knit dress at the premiere of The Shrouds. Actress Vicky Krieps also made headlines in a transparent, boudoir-inspired Armani Privé gown.
Now, the festival’s vague definition of “nudity” leaves room for interpretation. Would a printed nude design—like Jean-Paul Gaultier’s iconic 1990s trompe-l’œil dresses—be allowed? Does the ban extend to strategically placed cutouts or sheer panels, as seen in Florence Pugh’s nipple-baring Valentino gown? The lack of clarity may force stylists to rethink their approach entirely.
A Reaction to Extreme Fashion?
The new rule, which also prohibits “voluminous” outfits with long trains, may have been influenced by recent red carpet controversies. Earlier this year, Bianca Censori wore a near-transparent netting dress to the Grammys with her husband, Ye, pushing the barely-there trend to its limits—and sparking debates over artistic expression versus shock value.
For Cannes, the move appears to be an effort to refocus attention on cinema rather than wardrobe stunts. Festival organizers seem determined to keep exhibitionism on the French Riviera’s beaches—not their prestigious red carpet.
What’s Next for Fashion?
With the naked dress now off the table, designers and celebrities may pivot to more structured, covered-up silhouettes—or find creative ways to push boundaries within the new guidelines. One thing is certain: this year’s Cannes red carpet will look very different.
As the festival kicks off, all eyes will be on how stars adapt—and whether the ban marks the end of an audacious fashion era or simply inspires a new wave of sartorial rebellion.
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