Cannes Bans "Naked Dresses" on Red Carpet

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The Cannes Film Festival has introduced a ban on "naked" or "voluminous" dresses for the red carpet in 2025. This move has sparked a wave of debate over what constitutes "decency" and whether the festival is trying to control fashion choices. For years, daring, barely-there dresses have been a staple at major red-carpet events, especially at Cannes. High-profile stars like Bella Hadid, Naomi Campbell, and Kendall Jenner have all been spotted in sheer or barely-there dresses, making this ban feel like a significant shift.

A Shift in Fashion Culture

The Cannes Film Festival's decision to ban nudity and voluminous gowns brings attention to the broader cultural debates surrounding women's attire and empowerment. Some view the naked dress as a symbol of empowerment, but the festival's new dress code reflects the rise of cultural conservatism and the policing of women's bodies. The criticism isn't just about nudity but the inconsistency in what is deemed acceptable. For instance, while "bare skin" is prohibited on the red carpet, films shown at the festival often feature nudity, particularly of women. Critics argue this double standard reflects a deeper societal contradiction regarding women's clothing.

The Ban's Impact on Celebrities and Stylists

The new dress code also prohibits voluminous outfits, particularly those with large trains that hinder the flow of the event and seating arrangements. Celebrities often choose dramatic outfits to garner attention, and this regulation disrupts the attention-grabbing appeal of the red carpet. Many designers, stylists, and stars were caught off guard by this late announcement. For example, Halle Berry, known for her love of bold red carpet looks, was reportedly unable to wear her voluminous gown due to the new restrictions. For some, the ban on nudity seems more reasonable, while others believe the rule about the size of gowns is more warranted. This move follows other previous red carpet restrictions, like the ban on selfies in 2018, which was intended to prevent distractions and maintain the event's prestige.

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