Halle Berry Was Forced To Change Her Dress At The Cannes
Halle Berry arrived at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival with every intention of making a bold sartorial statement. But she faced a fashion challenge just hours before she was set to walk the red carpet for the festival’s opening ceremony. She was forced to change her dress ahead of the premiere of “Partir Un Jour.”
Berry had planned to wear a dramatic gown by Indian couturier Gaurav Gupta. The designer is known for his sculptural silhouettes and red carpet-worthy drama. However, the festival’s newly enforced dress code regulations prompted a swift change. According to Berry, the gown’s voluminous train didn’t comply with updated red carpet rules.
“I had an amazing dress by Gupta that I cannot wear tonight because it’s too big of a train,” Berry told Variety on the red carpet. “I’m not going to break the rules. The nudity part is also probably a good rule,” she added with a smile.
Thus, instead, Berry opted for a more understated look. It resembled a striped dress by French designer Jacquemus, striking the perfect balance between elegance and comfort. While the ensemble was stylish, it wasn’t quite the show-stopper fans may have expected.
Halle Berry and the New Cannes Film Festival Dress Regulations
So, this year, the Cannes Film Festival implemented a stricter dress policy intended to preserve high-class and ease logistical concerns. According to the official charter:
“For decency reasons, nudity is prohibited on the red carpet, as well as in any other area of the festival. Vinous outfits, in particular those with a large train, that hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theater are not permitted.”
Festival staff are instructed to deny access to anyone who doesn’t comply with these requirements. Thus, even Hollywood royalty isn’t special and can’t pass by them. So, what is acceptable? The guidelines suggest a few variations. Stars can pick from “a little black dress,” “a cocktail dress,” or a “dark-colored pantsuit.” They can pair them with “elegant shoes or sandals.” While functional, these restrictions have already sparked conversation among stylists. Also, among the Hollywood celebrities, especially when they mean rethinking a red carpet moment on the fly.
Halle Berry and her quick switch may have been in line with protocol, but many fans hope the festival will reconsider the limitations. Af er all, part of the magic of Cannes lies in the fashion, and Berry’s Gaurav Gupta gown surely deserved its moment in the spotlight.
