The Cans and Cannots of Cannes Film Festival Attire

Each May, the French Riviera becomes a runway of haute couture and cinematic prestige as the Cannes Film Festival draws the world's most influential filmmakers, actors, and fashion icons. But behind the red carpet flashbulbs lies a carefully curated aesthetic tradition: the Cannes dress code.

Equal parts elite fashion show and cinematic showcase, Cannes is not just about what premieres—it’s also about what you wear. And if you're headed to the Palais des Festivals, there are rules you’re expected to follow.

Red Carpet Expectations: The “Black Tie” Standard

For evening premieres, the dress code is formal, and strictly so. According to the Cannes website, men are expected to wear a tuxedo with a bow tie or a black suit with a formal tie. Dress shoes are mandatory—this means absolutely no sneakers, sandals, or casual loafers. Women, meanwhile, are expected to arrive in evening gowns, cocktail dresses, “little black dresses,” or pantsuits. Heels are still strongly encouraged, although recent controversies have slightly relaxed this expectation. This “black tie” code is not just tradition—it’s enforced. Attendees who don’t comply may be denied entry, even if they hold a ticket.

The Shoe Controversy

In recent years, Cannes has faced international backlash after several people have been reportedly turned away from screenings for wearing flat or non-compliant shoes. In 2022, Kelvin Redvers, an Indigenous producer, was denied entry into the festival while wearing traditional moccasins, and in 2019, Variety’s former Editor in Chief was denied entry for wearing flats. These incidents sparked widespread criticism and reignited conversations about outdated expectations in formal fashion.

Since then, the festival has made unofficial concessions, with some women seen on the red carpet in designer flats. But the expectation for formal, elevated footwear—especially for women—still lingers in the culture, even if not explicitly stated.

What You Can’t Wear

Whether you're an A-list actor or a journalist covering the event, casualwear is a no-go. That includes jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, flip-flops, and open-toed sandals. Even press members and industry delegates are expected to maintain a level of professional or formal attire when attending in-person screenings and events.

This year, Cannes has made a switch to ban nudity for “decency reasons.” The rule was made in accordance with French law, targeting the recent trend of sheer and topless outfits. Voluminous outfits and dresses with large trains are also prohibited, as they can affect the flow of traffic and complicate theatre seating. 

Beyond the Red Carpet: Daytime Screenings and Market Events

While the iconic red carpet calls for black tie, daytime screenings and events at the Marché du Film (Film Market) allow for more flexibility. Smart casual or business attire is generally acceptable and suits without ties, fashionable separates, and luxury streetwear are common to see. Still, the emphasis remains on stylish presentation—think Paris Fashion Week meets global cinema.

Final Take: Fashion as Ceremony

At Cannes, the dress code is more than an aesthetic—it’s part of the festival’s identity. It reinforces the exclusivity and high stakes of the event, setting it apart from other more casual festivals like SXSW or Tribeca.

But it’s also evolving. As conversations around fashion, gender, and inclusion continue to shift, so too does Cannes’ relationship with its famously strict dress standards.

Whether you're there to walk the red carpet or just watch it unfold online, one thing is certain: at Cannes, the clothes speak volumes—even before the first film starts.