Each year, the Cannes International Film Festival transforms the sun-dappled streets of the French Riviera into an open-air runway. While the red carpet dazzles with its usual opulence, it was on the cobbled paths and La Croisette cafés that real fashion stories unfold. From stars slipping past paparazzi in off-duty designer looks to stylists turning heads with bold looks, they carry it off with casual confidence and cinematic flair. Story by Antonio Visconti. Photography by Brittany Scott. Check back here for daily updates during the festival.
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Sandra Ackerl stands in the sun as it shines through a diaphanous Gaby Charbachy gown. |
The street scene is electric with energy, photographers dart through crowds, stylists smooth hems on the go, and stars mingling with influencers and industry insiders at terrace cafés, hotel balconies, and pop-up soirées. Fashion here is a dance between art and attitude, between vintage Chanel and barely-there Balenciaga, oversized sunglasses and gleaming hair, tailored suiting and barefoot beach strolls.
While the premieres and press calls unfold inside the Palais des Festivals, it’s the streets of Cannes that are offering some of the most compelling visual moments
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Halle Berry goes make-up free in Elie Saab at a Nespresso x Brut party in Cannes |
Of course, headlines haven’t all been about fashion. Robert De Niro’s acceptance of an honorary Palme d’Or took a political turn with his searing speech about Donald Trump's foreign film tariffs, drawing applause and raising the volume on conversations that extend beyond cinema.
Tom Cruise, meanwhile, brought blockbuster energy to Cannes with the screening of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, earning a thunderous seven and a half minute standing ovation for the adrenaline-fueled finale of the action series.
Cannes' unique visual rhythm is already in full swing: tuxedos and sequined gowns shimmer in the afternoon sunlight as stars head to photo calls, interviews and film premieres
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Leopard print taken to the 3D, a flamboyant fashion look on the street in Cannes |
The Croisette itself becomes a style arena: impromptu fashion shoots outside the Carlton hotel, hurried outfit changes, and ballgowns glinting in the midday sun.
The mood in Cannes is as kinetic as ever, a city in motion, fashion in evolution. As the festival continues, its streetstyle is shaping up to be just as influential as anything screening inside the Palais. And in these days, it’s already made one thing clear: the most memorable fashion moments often happen outside the premieres.
Scroll down to see more highlights from the Cannes Film Festival 2025, more to come: