Red carpet highlights
The red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival shimmered with opulence and sophistication, as celebrities from around the globe arrived in a dazzling array of couture. The iconic steps of the Palais des Festivals provided the perfect backdrop for a parade of high fashion, with designers using the event as a canvas to display their most exquisite creations.
Flowing gowns in bold hues, intricate beadwork, and dramatic silhouettes dominated the scene, with many stars opting for custom pieces from renowned fashion houses. Metallics and jewel tones were particularly popular, catching the light and adding a radiant glow to the evening atmosphere. Statement accessories, including oversized earrings and embellished clutches, completed many of the standout looks.
Australian talent also made a strong impression, with local designers gaining international attention for their innovative and elegant designs. The presence of homegrown stars brought a sense of national pride, as they confidently held their own among the global elite. Their fashion choices reflected a blend of modern edge and classic glamour, resonating with both local and international audiences.
As photographers captured every angle, the red carpet became more than just a prelude to the screenings—it was a celebration of artistry, identity, and the enduring allure of cinema’s most glamorous stage.
Celebrated appearances
Among the most talked-about appearances at this year’s Cannes Film Festival were those of Angela Bassett and Zoe Saldana, whose presence on the red carpet was nothing short of commanding. Angela Bassett, known for her regal poise and commanding screen presence, arrived in a sculptural gown that blended architectural precision with fluid elegance. The ensemble, featuring a dramatic train and intricate detailing, was a masterclass in high fashion, drawing admiration from critics and fans alike. Her look was completed with a sleek updo and diamond drop earrings that shimmered under the Riviera lights, reinforcing her status as a true style icon.
Zoe Saldana, equally radiant, chose a more ethereal approach with a flowing, pastel-toned gown that moved like water as she ascended the famed steps. The delicate fabric and subtle embellishments highlighted her graceful silhouette, while her minimalist styling allowed the craftsmanship of the dress to take centre stage. Her natural makeup and soft waves added to the overall effect, creating a look that was both modern and timeless.
Both actresses were not only celebrated for their fashion choices but also for the powerful energy they brought to the event. Their appearances were a reminder of the evolving landscape of global cinema, where talent, heritage, and individuality are increasingly being recognised and celebrated. As they posed for photographers and greeted fans, Bassett and Saldana exuded confidence and authenticity, embodying the spirit of the festival while setting a new standard for red carpet excellence.
Other notable appearances included a mix of established stars and rising talents, each bringing their own flair to the event. From tailored tuxedos with unexpected twists to avant-garde gowns that pushed the boundaries of traditional couture, the red carpet was a showcase of personal expression and sartorial daring. The diversity of styles and personalities on display reflected the inclusive and dynamic nature of contemporary cinema, making this year’s festival one of the most memorable in recent history.
Showcasing Black excellence
Angela Bassett and Zoe Saldana’s presence at Cannes was more than a fashion statement—it was a powerful affirmation of Black excellence on one of the world’s most prestigious stages. Their red carpet appearances resonated deeply, not only for their sartorial brilliance but for the cultural significance they carried. In an industry that has historically underrepresented people of colour, their visibility at such a high-profile event served as a moment of pride and progress, particularly for audiences across the African diaspora, including in Australia where conversations around representation continue to evolve.
Bassett’s commanding presence, honed over decades of groundbreaking performances, was a reminder of the strength and resilience that defines her career. Her choice of attire—bold, elegant, and unapologetically regal—was a visual celebration of heritage and identity. Similarly, Saldana’s ethereal look, while softer in tone, carried its own quiet power. Her grace and poise reflected a deep confidence rooted in cultural pride and artistic integrity. Together, they offered a nuanced portrayal of Black womanhood—multifaceted, dynamic, and undeniably influential.
These moments on the red carpet were not isolated; they were part of a broader movement within the film industry to elevate diverse voices and stories. Their participation at Cannes highlighted the importance of inclusion not just in casting and storytelling, but in the very spaces where cinema is celebrated and critiqued. For young Black Australians watching from afar, seeing women like Bassett and Saldana embraced and honoured on such a global platform can be both inspiring and affirming.
Beyond the fashion and the flashbulbs, their appearances underscored the importance of representation in shaping cultural narratives. They stood as symbols of excellence, not only in their craft but in their ability to navigate and redefine spaces that have not always been welcoming. In doing so, they helped to expand the definition of glamour and elegance, proving that true style is inseparable from authenticity and purpose.
As the festival continues to evolve, the presence of artists like Bassett and Saldana signals a shift towards a more inclusive and reflective cinematic landscape—one where Black excellence is not only acknowledged but celebrated on its own terms.
Red carpet highlights
Angela Bassett made a commanding entrance in a dramatic, sculptural gown that fused classic Hollywood glamour with modern sophistication. The voluminous silhouette, rendered in a rich plum hue, featured a structured bodice and flowing train that moved with regal fluidity. Her look was elevated with diamond drop earrings and a sleek updo, allowing the craftsmanship of the gown to take centre stage. It was a masterclass in red carpet poise and power dressing.
Zoe Saldana brought effortless elegance in a sleek, floor-length black gown with delicate sheer panelling and subtle embellishments. The minimalist design was offset by her choice of bold emerald earrings and a soft, romantic wave in her hair. Her look was a nod to timeless style with a contemporary edge, perfectly suited to the Cannes aesthetic.
Other standout moments included a wave of metallics and sculptural silhouettes, with many stars opting for bold shoulder lines, high slits, and intricate beadwork. The red carpet shimmered with a palette of jewel tones, crisp whites, and classic blacks, reflecting a return to refined glamour. Statement accessories—think oversized cuffs, layered chokers, and architectural clutches—added a directional twist to otherwise classic ensembles.
Australian fashion watchers would have noted the subtle nods to sustainability, with several stars choosing gowns crafted from recycled fabrics or designed by eco-conscious labels. This shift towards mindful luxury is resonating more and more with our local market, where ethical fashion is gaining momentum alongside high-end style.
Celebrating Black excellence
Angela Bassett’s presence on the Cannes red carpet was more than a fashion moment—it was a celebration of heritage, strength, and unapologetic elegance. Her choice of a plum-hued gown by a Black designer underscored the importance of representation in haute couture. The gown’s architectural lines and regal silhouette paid homage to both African artistry and old-Hollywood glamour, creating a powerful visual narrative that resonated deeply with audiences across the globe, including here in Australia where diversity in fashion is increasingly championed.
Zoe Saldana’s refined look was equally impactful. Her gown, designed by a rising Black couturier, was a study in restraint and sophistication. The sheer panelling and subtle sparkle were not just aesthetic choices—they were a quiet assertion of visibility and voice in an industry that has historically overlooked Black creatives. Her styling choices, from the emerald earrings to the soft waves, were deliberate nods to cultural richness and individuality.
These appearances weren’t just about style—they were statements. They highlighted the growing influence of Black designers, stylists, and creatives who are reshaping the global fashion narrative. For Australian fashion insiders, this is a moment to take note. The celebration of Black excellence at Cannes signals a broader shift towards inclusivity and authenticity, values that are increasingly reflected in our own fashion landscape.
As the red carpet continues to evolve into a platform for cultural expression, the presence of women like Bassett and Saldana reminds us that fashion is not just about what we wear—it’s about who we are, and the stories we choose to tell through our style.