Over the years, the Cannes Film Festival has become synonymous with unforgettable fashion moments. From Kate Moss's iconic black feathered dress in 1998 to Bella Hadid's recent forays into vintage couture, this event continues to inspire glamorous throwbacks. In 2025 alone, British Vogue’s June cover star dazzled attendees with five distinct vintage outfits on the Croisette. These included a vibrant yellow minidress by Gianni Versace and an intricate keffiyeh dress from Michael and Hushi dating back to 2001. Meanwhile, Naomi Campbell made waves in a sheer-skirted Chanel gown from their spring/summer 1997 couture collection. However, such daring ensembles might now face scrutiny due to the festival's updated guidelines regarding nudity on the red carpet.
The allure of vintage fashion lies not only in its nostalgic charm but also in its ability to redefine modern glamour. For instance, Kate Moss's choice of a black feathered gown sourced from Lily et Cie remains one of the most talked-about looks from the late '90s. Similarly, Bella Hadid has consistently turned heads with her selections, ranging from Tom Ford-era Gucci pieces to bold Versace designs. Her influence has set a trend where stars are increasingly looking toward historical archives rather than contemporary collections for their red-carpet appearances.
This year promises even more excitement as models like Bella Hadid have already arrived in the South of France, ready to make their mark. The festival's evolving rules may limit certain styles, yet they cannot dampen the enthusiasm for timeless elegance. Attendees can anticipate seeing an array of carefully curated vintage garments that honor past eras while remaining relevant today.
As we look forward to this year's spectacle, it is worth revisiting some of the greatest vintage moments in Cannes history. Each piece tells a story about the era it represents and showcases how fashion transcends time, creating connections between decades through shared aesthetics and craftsmanship.
With each passing year, the Cannes Film Festival solidifies its reputation as both a cinematic and sartorial showcase. As designers and celebrities continue to embrace vintage, they remind us of the enduring power of classic design. Whether adhering strictly to tradition or pushing boundaries within established norms, these choices reflect creativity and respect for fashion heritage.