Halle Berry changes outfits after Cannes Film Festival introduces new dress code regulations.

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has introduced a new set of stringent dress code regulations that have already caused notable changes among attendees, including Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry. The festival’s freshly clarified policies, aimed at maintaining decorum on the red carpet and throughout the event, have drawn attention in light of Berry’s last-minute wardrobe adjustments.

Cannes Festival organizers recently updated their dress code guidelines, explicitly prohibiting nudity on the red carpet and in other areas of the festival venue. The new regulations also ban “voluminous outfits, in particular those with a large train,” citing concerns that such garments may obstruct the flow of foot traffic or complicate seating arrangements in screening theaters. This modification underscores the festival’s commitment to ensuring a seamless experience for all guests.

Berry, who is serving as a jury member at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, disclosed that her original attire for the festival’s opening event had to be scrapped due to these new restrictions. She had initially chosen a dramatic gown designed by Gaurav Gupta, which was disqualified due to its excessive train. Berry noted the necessity of adjusting her outfit, affirming that while she is disappointed about the change, she finds merit in the new nudity regulations.

Following the implementation of these updated guidelines, festival organizers emphasized that such rules have always been in effect but were not previously articulated as clearly. Their intent is to conform to French legal standards while ensuring that attendees can navigate the venue without hindrance. The festival retains the right to deny entry to those whose clothing could potentially disrupt the flow of guests or seating arrangements.

Berry recently gained widespread attention at the 2025 Met Gala in New York City, where she dazzled attendees in a revealing gown designed by LaQuan Smith. The stark contrast between her earlier ensemble at the Met Gala and her Cannes attire speaks volumes about the distinct fashion ethos that defines each event. For her appearance at Cannes, Berry opted for a refined look, donning a black tweed Chanel skirt suit during a jury photocall, and later stunning attendees in a black-and-white striped Jacquemus gown featuring a halter neckline on the red carpet.

As the festival progresses, it remains to be seen how other attendees will adapt to the revised dress code, and whether the changes will set new standards for red carpet appearances in the future. The Cannes Film Festival continues to be an influential barometer for fashion in the film industry, reflecting broader cultural trends and expectations.