Hollywood icon Halle Berry had to make a last-minute change to her red carpet wardrobe for the Cannes Film Festival 2025, after the festival enforced a new set of dress code guidelines. The Oscar-winning actor revealed that her initial outfit, designed by Indian couturier Gaurav Gupta, was deemed unsuitable due to its extravagant train, which violated the updated rules for red carpet attire.
Speaking ahead of the festival’s opening night on May 13, Berry explained, “I had a stunning dress planned for tonight by Gaurav Gupta, but I can’t wear it because the train is too long.” The celebrated designer, known for dressing global celebrities like Cardi B and making high-impact fashion statements at international galas, had created the gown specifically for the actress. However, due to the festival’s new policies, Berry had to opt for a more regulation-friendly outfit.
The Cannes Film Festival 2025 dress code now explicitly bans nudity and oversized gowns from the red carpet in an attempt to align with French legal standards and maintain a balanced visual presentation. According to festival authorities, this is the first time the regulations have been officially documented and shared publicly. A representative stated that the rules are not meant to control fashion choices but are in place to avoid complete nudity and overly dramatic fashion elements.
Despite Berry’s decision to respect the new rules, not all attendees followed suit. Supermodel Heidi Klum appeared on the red carpet in a flamboyant pink dress with a three-meter-long train. Chinese actor and influencer Wan Qianhui also stood out in a voluminous white taffeta gown, drawing attention despite the updated restrictions.
Berry, who is part of the jury that will decide the winner of the Palme d’Or this year, voiced her support for the festival’s decision, calling the restriction on nudity “probably a good rule.” She emphasized the importance of respecting institutional guidelines, especially during such a prestigious international event.
Additionally, the new rules also address footwear. Cannes has now clearly stated that elegant shoes or sandals—with or without heels—are acceptable, a move appreciated by jury president Juliette Binoche. The French actress, who has experienced such fashion-related controversies before, welcomed the clarity, calling it “a very good idea.”
