10 Best Looks from the 2015 Cannes Film Festival

As Cannes kindly reminds us every year, summer is way more glamorous than a pair of denim cutoffs, aviators and rubber flip flops. In fact, the fête du jour frowns up banished flats altogether. In true Cannes Film Festival manner, the red carpet looks did not disappoint. From formal showstoppers to casual--but equally chic--party and press outfits, check out the 10 best looks of the film (and fashion) extravaganza.



Diane Kruger in Prada: If any budding fashionista need guidance on having a personal style that is both feminine and edgy, look to Diane Kruger. Between utterly Parisian Chanel Haute Couture frocks to punchy Giambattista Valli prints, everything the German actress wears tickles the heart of all girly girls. This Prada gown is no exception. There's something insanely ethereal about the thougthful embellishments against a playfully sheer backdrop, and not to mention the dramatic back is undeniably regal. In true Kruger fashion, her subtly messy curls perfectly match the princessy vibe of this gown. But of course, leave it to the It-Girl to make even bedhead coveted.

 

Sophie Marceau in Alexander Vauthier: Far from the festival's riskiest look, the actress's fuss-free outfit offers a good lesson in easy summer dressing. Whether on red carpet or the boardwalk, a white shirtdress is the ultimate example of understated glamour. Yes, Marceau's take on this wardrobe staple is fancier than the top that also doubles as a cover-up, but the carefree sentiment is still strong. In general, the getup feels a little ho-hum; however, adding Chopard's snake necklace ups the sartorial ante. Polished off with a pair of gold gladiator sandals, Marceau looks more like an ultra chic Medusa (in a good way!) than an actress. Brava.

Cate Blanchett in Alexander McQueen: As any fashion girl (or guy) knows, the secret to sexy dressing is highlighting one body area and leaving much more to the imagination. This iteration is not as obvious as a plunging maxidress, but this Victorian alternative is undeniably sultry. Lesson to be learned: a sheer top and frills-free black bra does wonders, and isn't only appropriate for a night on the town. To prevent this look from getting too vampy, the Academy Award winner opts for smooth waves, a fresh face and minimal accessories.

Sienna Miller in Sonia Rykiel:  Once upon a time, the American Sniper star was known for two things: her rocky relationship with Jude Law and her perfectly boho style. Though Miller has made several movies since then, and seemingly ended her on-again-off-again relationship, who doesn't regularly nerd out over her style? Her clothes still have a hint of boho, but her overall style has received a major, sophisticated upgrade. There's something about this gothic look that almost veers into Stevie Nicks territory; however, the minimal jewels (besides that glitzy collar, of course) make this less costumey. Long story short: the drama of this ensemble is divine. Though the cape adds an air of mystery, the sheer skirt and starry embellishments keep this outfit fun and youthful. The juxtaposition between the beachy braids and classic deep red lip perfect this look.

Poppy Delevingne in Burberry Prorsum: A little psychedelic without veering too trippy, this dress is the ideal option for any creative style savant. In a sea of neutrals, metallics and jewel tones, this forest green adds an undeniably refreshing jolt of color to the red carpet. And the whimsical embellishments contribute an unapologetically youthful energy that is rarely found at Cannes. On the accessories front, the tiered necklace emphasizes the deep neckline, making this look more fashion girl than party girl. Finished with a smokey eye and slightly messy updo (with the ubiquitous fashion girl middle part)? A sartorial homerun. 

Emma Stone in Christian Dior Couture: Not to sound overdramatic, but this dress is everything. Simply put, you can wear this dress everywhere: a wedding, red carpet, gala, prom, lounging around on a Sunday morning just because you want to feel a little fancy. The options are essentially limitless. While the soft white and swishy train can come across as strictly bridal, Stone gives this look a youthful twist by adding a subtle choker. Mixed with the boat neckline, the necklace provides a cool, 90s flair.The actress's neat updo keeps this look sophisticated while her subtle lip offers a pop of color.

Naomi Watts in Armani Privé: Goodbye, basic column dresses and extravagant trains; hello, thick ruffles. Though tiers are usually associated with the likes of flamenco dancers, it feels refreshing on The Sea of Trees actress. And flattering! Compact ruffles have the nasty reputation of adding unnecessary bulk; however, the elongated layers create a subtle hourglass figure. Thanks to the ice blue hue, this dress is dramatic enough without wearing Watts. The frock's black embroidery perfectly matches her thin black strappy sandals. To complete the look, Watts adds dangling earrings and a fresh face.

Natasha Poly in Chanel: It's very rare that a set of sleeves make an outfit but do not create a paparazzi-attracting spectacle.  Paired with a flowy silhouette, this dress is the perfect thing to wear on a cool summer evening. With the help of fetching accessories as well as a gifted hair and makeup crew, Poly's ensemble cries old Hollywood glamour more than mumsy. The T-Strap heels and chained bags are sweet, while the deep lip and exaggerated side part add the right amount glamour. Not to mention the crimson lip compliment the frock's navy hue.

Fan Bingbing in Ralph & Russo Couture: Stateside, Chinese actress Fan Bingbing is known more for her extravagant sartorial choices than her bustling filmography. Especially at high-profiled events, she sports dresses that are classic with a hint of fantastical. The floral fripperies on this gown are part old money feminine, part ethereally whimsical.While a petal power frock with a trumpeted skirt can feel a little matronly, the dramatic train and funky geometric clutch offer a hip twist. Paired with matching dangling earrings, a chunky bracelet and rings, this look is glamorous, feminine, daring and dramatic all at once.  Now that's a strong red carpet look.

Kendall Jenner in Alaia: Rest assured, style rookies: attending an A-List red carpet and embracing youthful, forward-thinking style are not mutually exclusive. Case in point? Kendall Jenner. Whether rocking a crop top, thigh-grazing hemline or an up-to-there slit, the model, muse (and Kimye relative) never fails to remind us that she's only 19 years-old. But there's something commendable about her fashion choices, especially this Alaia number. Though it's easy to forget, fashion is all about having fun. After seeing photos of Jenner swishing her full, bohemian skirt, it looks like that's exactly what she was doing. While the silhouette and texture looks like something one would wear after spending hours on the beach, the layers of Chopard gems and bright red lip make this getup completely Cannes-worthy.

Which looks from the 2015 Cannes Film Festival did you love? Sound off below!

Photos courtesy of Vogue.com

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