The 78th Cannes Film Festival has implemented a new written dress code, and its first high-profile casualty is none other than Oscar-winning actress and jury member Halle Berry. The updated rules, which ban nudity and extravagantly large trains on gowns, forced Berry to ditch a custom-made outfit by renowned Indian designer Gaurav Gupta just hours before the event.
Gaurav Gupta Gown Rejected Due to Long Train
Speaking to reporters, Berry revealed, “I had an amazing dress to wear tonight by Gupta, and I cannot wear it because the train is too big.” Gaurav Gupta, known for his sculptural and statement-making pieces worn by stars like Cardi B, was reportedly excited about dressing Berry for the occasion. However, the new regulations left no room for exceptions. “Of course, I’m going to follow the rules,” Berry added, showing her support for the festival’s decision.
Halle Berry greets fans at the red carpet for the opening ceremony and “Partir Un Jour” (Leave One Day) screening at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival. @halleberry @Festival_Cannes #Cannes2025#GettyVideo #HalleBerry #FestivaldeCannes Ming Yeung https://t.co/Cg3LWGDnt4 pic.twitter.com/sogHXKAvX3
— Getty Images Entertainment (@GettyVIP) May 13, 2025
Mixed Reactions on the Red Carpet
Despite the rules, other celebrities appeared to skirt the guidelines. German model Heidi Klum wore a pink gown with a train nearly three meters long, while Chinese actress and influencer Wan Qianhui arrived in a voluminous white taffeta dress. Cannes organizers clarified that the rules are meant to comply with French laws, stating the goal is “not about regulating fashion, but banning total nudity.”
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Also Read: Cannes Cracks Down! Strict Rules for N*dity and Revealing Outfits at 2025 Festival
Changes to Footwear Rules Welcomed
In addition to gown restrictions, Cannes has officially relaxed its stance on high heels after years of criticism. Attendees are now allowed to wear “elegant shoes or sandals with or without heels.” Jury president Juliette Binoche praised the update, saying it was a “very good idea” and joked it came from “experience.”
Also Read: Cannes Film Festival 2025: Eva Longoria and Heidi Klum’s Red Carpet Looks are Pure Perfection
A New Era for Cannes Fashion?
With official rules now in place, the red carpet at Cannes 2025 might be more elegant—if slightly less extravagant.
