Cannes Dress Code Now Bans Nudity, Sheer Gowns, And Risqué Outfits

“Free the nipple?” Not at Cannes. The festival’s new dress code bans nudity outright “for decency reasons” and says oversized outfits and voluminous gowns that “hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theatre” will no longer be allowed. The update applies to the Grand Théâtre Lumière’s evening screenings, and festival staff are apparently expected to turn away anyone who doesn’t play by the new rules. Backpacks, tote bags, and other large carryalls are also out. Cannes has built part of its mystique on the sheer spectacle of the red carpet. Some of the festival’s most talked-about moments in recent years involved naked dresses, translucent fabrics, and outfits that dared to show a little (or a lot) of skin. Bella Hadid alone wore three different sheer looks in 2024. Of course, this isn’t the first time Cannes has tried to dress-code its way into controversy. In 2015, women in flat shoes were reportedly turned away from the carpet. That led to a quiet rebellion from stars like Cate Blanchett, who walked barefoot, and Kristen Stewart, who ditched her heels altogether. Jennifer Lawrence even showed up in flip-flops. The rule was quietly walked back. As the 78th Cannes Film Festival kicks off, all eyes are on the carpet – will we see gowns with more fabric and maybe a little more left to the imagination? Are we finally returning to traditional and classy? Let’s wait and see. Subscribe today to get unlimited access to all of Evie’s premium content.