The Cannes Film Festival is known not only for showcasing some of the most exciting new films from around the globe but also for its incredible display of style and star power.
On day eleven, the spotlight was on some truly stunning fashion moments as stars gathered ahead of one of the festival’s standout events—the L’Oreal Light on Women Award ceremony.
Michelle Keegan Steals the Show in White
Michelle Keegan, the former Coronation Street star, turned heads with her elegant and polished look at the Hotel Martinez on Friday.
The 37-year-old actress chose a beautifully structured white gown that hugged her figure perfectly.
This strapless corseted dress featured a chic peplum detail and was paired with a dramatic, matching hat that added a touch of vintage glamour.
Michelle completed her look with satin open-toed heels and a dazzling diamond necklace, making her one of the most talked-about attendees as she prepared to attend the premiere of The Mastermind later that evening.
Celebrating Female Filmmakers with the L’Oreal Award
The L’Oreal Light on Women Award is a highlight of the festival, aimed at championing emerging female voices in the film industry.
This year’s ceremony was hosted by American actress Viola Davis, continuing the legacy of previous hosts like Elle Fanning and Kate Winslet.
The award will be presented to one exceptional female director from the Cannes Short Film Competition—a prestigious accolade following last year’s win by Viv Li for her film Across the Waters.
More Star Power on the Red Carpet
Other stars also caught the eye on Friday, including Gillian Anderson, who looked sensational in a spring green jacquard gown.
The Sex Education actress, 56, dazzled in a full skirted dress with delicate thin straps and a cinched waist, perfectly blending classic elegance with modern style.
These glamorous moments remind us that Cannes is as much about fashion as it is about film.
Cannes: The Ultimate Global Film Stage
As the festival heads toward its final night, the energy remains electric.
Filmmakers from nearly every corner of the world gather here to showcase their latest projects, while industry insiders work around the clock negotiating film deals and distribution rights.
Cannes has earned its reputation as the “Olympics of cinema,” culminating in the coveted Palme d’Or award ceremony.
Brazilian director Kleber Mendonça Filho, returning with his thriller The Secret Agent, describes the experience as intense—comparing the nerve-wracking anticipation to climbing the steps of the Palais, much like approaching a roller coaster.
Industry Challenges Loom Over Cannes
This year’s festival is unfolding against a backdrop of uncertainty following recent announcements by former US President Donald Trump about potential tariffs on international films.
The proposed 100 percent tax on movies produced outside the United States sent shockwaves through Hollywood and global film communities.
Although no final decisions have been made, the situation highlights how political tensions can ripple through even the most established cultural events like Cannes.
Cannes’ Rich History and New Generations of Filmmakers
Originating during World War II as a response to fascist control over the Venice Film Festival, Cannes has since become a beacon of artistic freedom and creativity.
This year, several well-known actors are making their directorial debuts, including Kristen Stewart with The Chronology of Water, Scarlett Johansson’s Eleanor the Great, and Harris Dickinson’s Urchin.
Veteran stars like Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro, and Quentin Tarantino also returned, adding to the festival’s blend of fresh talent and established legends.
New Dress Code Rules Spark Conversation
Interestingly, the festival has introduced new dress code policies aimed at curbing the trend of revealing “naked dresses” on the red carpet.
These guidelines emphasize decency, requiring guests to wear more conservative and elegant attire.
Suits, floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses, and dressy sandals are now the norm, with red carpet access denied to anyone who doesn’t comply.
This move marks a shift in how the festival balances glamour with a more modest approach, possibly influenced by broadcasters’ concerns over nudity.
The Final Days of Cannes Are Upon Us
As the Cannes Film Festival nears its grand finale, anticipation builds for the closing ceremony on Saturday.
Filmmakers, journalists, and film lovers from across the globe will gather to celebrate the art of cinema and honor the outstanding works presented during these two unforgettable weeks on the French Riviera.