After "Nude Dress" Controversy, Cannes Tightens Rules: "Banned in All Areas"

Repeated Controversy Over "Nude Dresses" at Celebrity Events
New Dress Code Criticized for Causing Confusion
"The Definition of 'Nude' Remains Unclear"

The 78th Cannes International Film Festival has announced a ban on excessively revealing outfits on the red carpet and at event venues.

Last year at the Cannes Film Festival, model Bella Hadid appeared wearing a sheer dress that revealed her chest. Bella Hadid Instagram

According to CNN on May 12 (local time), the Cannes Film Festival organizers posted on their website that this was "a measure to maintain decorum," and stated, "Nudity is prohibited not only on the red carpet but also in all other areas of the festival."

The organizers also stated that for film screenings held at the Lumiere Grand Theatre between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., attendees must wear long dresses or tuxedos. Specifically, black short dresses, cocktail dresses, dark suits, shirts, black trousers, and flat shoes are permitted, but sneakers are prohibited. The organizers further noted that failure to comply with the dress code may result in being denied access to the red carpet.

This decision is interpreted as a response to repeated controversies in recent years, where international celebrities have worn so-called "nude dresses"?outfits considered excessively revealing?at award ceremonies or red carpet events.

Earlier this year, model Bianca Censori drew attention when she appeared at the Grammy Awards with her husband, rapper Kanye West, wearing a nude dress without underwear. Last year, a similar controversy arose at the Cannes Film Festival when model Bella Hadid attended the red carpet in a sheer dress that revealed her chest, drawing criticism.

However, CNN pointed out that the definition of nudity remains unclear and there are no specific guidelines regarding exposure, which could lead to further confusion. The outlet questioned, "Does a nude print image, like those seen in Jean Paul Gaultier dresses from the 1990s, violate the new dress code, or is it only actual exposure that is problematic?" and asked, "How will exposure be judged?"

Meanwhile, this is not the first time the Cannes Film Festival's dress code has sparked controversy. In 2015, Cannes was criticized for banning flat shoes, which was seen as forcing women to wear high heels. In response, actress Kristen Stewart protested the dress code by removing her heels and walking barefoot.