Bella Hadid to Eva Longoria: Who wore what on Day 1 of Festival de Cannes 2025

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival kicked off in dazzling style, with a parade of stars and jury members gracing the red carpet in fashion-forward looks—some daring, some demure, and a few raising eyebrows.This year, however, fashion took an interesting turn as the festival organisers introduced a new dress code, banning sheer outfits, over-the-top trains, and voluminous silhouettes that could disrupt the flow of red carpet traffic.Despite the new restrictions, celebrities found creative ways to express their style, with some adhering strictly to the rules and others confidently bending them.Payal Kapadia: Power suit, power statementIndian filmmaker and Cannes jury member Payal Kapadia embraced subtle strength in a deconstructed checkered pantsuit by designer Arjun Saluja. Paired with a sharp black shirt and oxidised silver accessories, her minimalist yet bold ensemble made an intellectual fashion statement. Hoops and understated glam completed her grounded, fuss-free red carpet appearance.Bella Hadid: Understated chicSupermodel Bella Hadid turned heads with her fresh blonde locks and a sleek black gown by Saint Laurent’s Anthony Vaccarello. The dress featured a cowl neckline, daring back cut-outs, and a thigh-high slit - sultry yet restrained, and completely within the new dress code boundaries. It was a masterclass in refined glamour.Qianhui Wan: Rule? What rule?Chinese theatre star Qianhui Wan turned the red carpet into a personal stage with a jaw-dropping butter-yellow gown layered in clouds of tulle. A structured corset bodice and a sprawling train that practically blanketed the red carpet defied the festival’s new restrictions with theatrical flair. Her minimal styling, diamond studs and a sleek hairdo - let the dress take centre stage.Eva Longoria: Metallic museEva Longoria shimmered in a Tamara Ralph creation that struck a balance between red carpet drama and modern elegance. The silver-paneled strapless gown hugged her curves and featured a bold black velvet bow at the back, extending into a subtle train. Her sparkling jewels added just the right amount of dazzle.Heidi Klum: Petals in protestNever one to play it safe, Heidi Klum floated onto the red carpet in a romantic Elie Saab number that looked like a blooming pink flower. Though it clearly pushed the envelope on volume and train length, the strapless ombré gown with its layered ruffles and dramatic slit-made a bold style statement. Her diamond Lorraine Schwartz jewellery and soft glam tied it all together.Irina Shayk: Old Hollywood, reimaginedIrina Shayk delivered a showstopping moment in a black-and-white sequinned Giorgio Armani Privé gown. The look featured off-shoulder balloon sleeves, a fitted bodice, and a voluminous skirt, paired with velvet opera gloves and dazzling diamonds. It was classic glamour with a contemporary twist, proving that elegance can still be theatrical.Juliette Binoche: Quiet coutureFrench icon Juliette Binoche wore an ethereal off-white Dior Haute Couture ensemble with a sculptural twist. The silk crepe top elegantly draped around her head and melted into a soft train. While beautifully crafted, the look’s subtle drama was overshadowed by her close proximity to fellow jury members, who crowded her visual moment. With more space to breathe, the ensemble could’ve been a showstopper.Cannes style verdictWith new rules in play, the 2025 Cannes red carpet became a dance of discretion and drama. While some stars flaunted restraint, others toyed with boundaries, proving once again that fashion is, above all, an act of expression. Whether following the rulebook or rewriting it, the red carpet served plenty of moments to remember.y of moments to remember.