French Enforce Newfound Modesty At Notorious Film Festival
The Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious events in the global film industry, made headlines in May 2025 with a controversial decision to ban women from wearing what its organizers have termed “naked clothing” on the red carpet. This new dress code policy, announced just weeks before the festival’s opening on May 13, 2025, targets sheer, see-through, or excessively revealing outfits, which have become a staple for some celebrities seeking to make bold fashion statements. Festival director Thierry Frémaux stated that the rule aims to “restore elegance and dignity” to the event, arguing that such attire detracts from the focus on cinema and undermines the cultural significance of Cannes. However, the decision has sparked accusations of misogyny and double standards, as male attendees face no comparable restrictions on their fashion choices, despite often appearing in unconventional or avant-garde outfits themselves.
Critics of the ban argue that it reflects a broader pattern of controlling women’s bodies under the guise of propriety, a move that feels particularly regressive in an era where fashion is celebrated as a form of self-expression and empowerment. High-profile figures like actress Zendaya, who has previously worn sheer designs by designers like Mugler at Cannes, have publicly condemned the policy, calling it a “step backward” for gender equality in the industry. Social media platforms like X have erupted with debates, with some users pointing out the irony of a festival that often screens films with explicit content now policing women’s clothing choices. Others have noted that the ban disproportionately affects women from marginalized backgrounds, who may use bold fashion to gain visibility in an industry historically dominated by white, male gatekeepers. Meanwhile, supporters of the policy, including some traditionalist French cultural commentators, argue that Cannes should uphold a certain standard of decorum, claiming that “naked clothing” cheapens the event’s legacy.
The ban’s enforcement has already led to awkward moments, with reports of security turning away lesser-known actresses at pre-festival events for wearing sheer gowns, while more established stars have faced no such scrutiny—highlighting potential inconsistencies in application. This has fueled further criticism that the rule is less about elegance and more about reinforcing power dynamics, allowing organizers to dictate who gets to be seen as “respectable” on the global stage. The controversy has also raised questions about the festival’s relevance in a changing cultural landscape, where inclusivity and diversity are increasingly prioritized. As the 2025 Cannes Film Festival unfolds, the ban on “naked clothing” risks overshadowing the films themselves, turning a celebration of cinema into a battleground over gender, autonomy, and the right to self-expression.
