Cannes Film Festival bans nudity and oversized outfits on Red Carpet

Cannes: The 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival has ushered in a wave of stricter red carpet regulations, introducing a revised dress code that bans nudity, restricts oversized garments, and emphasizes traditional formalwear for all gala screenings. According to the official charter released on the festival’s website, the updated rules are being implemented in the name of "decency" and logistical efficiency. The new policy will apply to all guests attending evening screenings at the prestigious Grand Théâtre Lumière, held daily at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. between May 13 and May 24. “For decency reasons, nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in any other area of the Festival,” the charter declares — a notable shift from previous years, where bold fashion choices often made headlines despite occasional controversy. While classic tuxedos and full-length gowns remain the norm, the charter now details acceptable alternatives: women may opt for cocktail dresses or dark-colored pantsuits, and men may wear black or navy-blue suits with matching ties or bow ties. Athletic shoes are explicitly banned, with only “elegant shoes and sandals” permitted. Organizers have also taken aim at oversized or extravagant garments, including floor-sweeping dresses and long trains, citing safety and crowd flow concerns. “These outfits hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theatre,” the guidelines state. Attendees wearing such attire may be denied access to the red carpet altogether. Security and crowd control measures extend to personal belongings as well. Tote bags, backpacks, and other large items will not be permitted inside gala venues. To assist guests, lockers will be available near the Gare Maritime until 12:30 a.m. Enforcement of the rules will be strict, with festival staff instructed to turn away anyone failing to comply. “The Festival welcoming teams will be obligated to prohibit Red Carpet access to anyone not respecting these rules,” the document warns. As the world’s cinema elite descend on the French Riviera for premieres, photo calls, and industry networking, the heightened regulations mark a clear attempt by Cannes to streamline operations and present a more controlled public image — even as it remains one of the most glamorous stages in global entertainment.