10 Best Looks From the 2014 Cannes Film Festival

Let's be honest: it's easy to forget how glamourous the Cannes Film Festival is. While the Academy Awards is every style savant's super bowl and the Met Gala is the perfect time to nerd out over avant garde ensembles, the summer film event is a fashion marathon. Extravagant evening gowns, fun party dresses, and beachy casual wear-- this fête has it all. But between resort collections and mentally planning your summer outfits, this film festival tends glide off the radar until that first phenomenal outfit is a viral sensation. With so many days, and loads of red carpet home runs, it's hard to choose one outstanding moment. In no particular order, these ten looks highlight the creme de la Cannes.

1. Blake Lively at the Grace of Monaco Premiere (Gucci): From Céline's brushstroke prints and fringe scarves to Givenchy's flowing silhouettes, neo-tribal ran rampant on the spring runways. The Savages star took the trend and translated it for the mainstream red carpet. Lively's high slit combined  with a halter neckline keeps this look utterly sophisticated. For a finishing touch, the braided ankle straps perfectly complemented the dress's aesthetic while the slicked back hair allows the dress to take center stage.

2. Cate Blanchett at the How to Train Your Dragon 2 Premiere (Givenchy): The Oscars cemented the universal belief that Cate Blanchett can do no (sartorial) wrong, and this embellished Givenchy gown is no exception. With minimal jewels and slicked back hair, the Academy Award winning actress allows the spectacular bodice to be the focal point of this look; however, her pink pout and position as a bonafide movie star enables Blanchett to wear the dress, as opposed to the other way around. 

3. Eva Longoria at the Saint Laurent Premiere (Gabriela Cadena): It's been quite some time since the former Desperate Housewives actress graced the red carpet, a what a reunion it was. A vision in white, this look is major. The heavenly white is an ideal contrast to her naturally tan complexion. With such a petite frame, it's easy for a large dress to completely overwhelm Longoria; however, the simplicity of the gown permits the actress to take control of this ensemble. 

4. Kendall Jenner at the Grace of Monaco Premiere (Chanel): It''s no secret that the Kardashian klan is seamlessly transitioning from a televised guilty pleasure to genuine fashion fixtures. And unlike most models on the red carpet, this is truly a fashion moment. The textured bodice is perfectly balanced by the dress's clean skirt, which fits Jenner like a glove! Plus, the pair of costume earrings complements the bodice's chaos without compromising the whole look. Sleek hair a a poppy-colored lip, welcome to the Kardashians 2.0.

5. Jess Weixler at the Foxcatcher Premiere (Armani Prive): A breezy silhouette with thoughtful beading, this look marries ethereal beauty and high-impact fashion together. And it's kind of amazing. Weixler proves that there are more ways to make a statement at Cannes than by wearing a voluminous evening gown (though those are pretty major). The simple drop earrings complement the dress's texture without overwhelming the look.

6. Blake Lively at the Captives Premiere (Gucci): Completely different from the actress's other Gucci number, this dress is a bonafide leading lady look. The regal train is pure heaven while the former Gossip Girl star perfectly completes this look with luxe diamonds and a stunning red lip. And how chic is that chignon? Such a Grace Kelly moment.

7. Hilary Swank at The Homesman Premiere (Atelier Versace): The Million Dollar Baby  actress is known for sporting narrow silhouettes with bold features--who doesn't remember that amazing low back Guy Laroche number from the 2005 Academy Awards? The powerful asymmetrical strap adheres to her sartorial M.O. while the side-swept hair offers some balance to the overall look. And let's not forget to talk about how divine her jewels are! Colorful gems are the perfect way to make a quirky statement on the red carpet without looking like Helena Bonham Carter, and pairing some jewel-tone bling with an angelic neutral is completely on point. 

8. Liu Wen at the Two Days, One Night Premiere (Saint Laurent): Though the silhouette is nothing we haven't seen before, the super sexy slit and voluminous bodice  turn this look into a "wow" moment. While a sequined waist has the potential to look kitschy, the model's understated approach to this look prevents a major film festival faux pas. Wen's bold lip and high-octane earrings are the perfect way to command attention in a column black dress. J'adore.

9. Rosie Huntington Whiteley at The Search Premiere (Gucci): What comes to mind when you think of a metallic dress? Gold lamé at Studio 54? A Vegas showgirl after hours? This semi-pleated metallic dress is a game-changer. With a dash of sheen and super subtle pleats, this Gucci number wards off the flashy reputation most metallic dresses receive. This model is never afraid to sport extravagant appliqué or vibrant hues; however, the subdued hue combined with a simple silhouette makes this red carpet trend undeniably chic. Pairing the silver gown with drop diamond earrings offers a monochromatic look, which is tres au courant.

10. Sofia Coppola at the Foxcatcher Premiere (Michael Kors): As Hollywood's resident Queen of "Androgynous Chic", this Michael Kors number is Coppola's standout moment of the festival. The silhouette is so easy; however, the slit keyhole opening and dainty embellishments makes this dress Cannes ready. Plus, the mid-hemline and black and blue color combination is beyond chic. But would we expect anything less? 

Which looks are you loving? Sound off below! 

All photos courtesy of HarpersBazaar.com

xx