11 Bold Dresses That Wouldn't Make The Cut at Cannes Today

I never imagined I'd advocate for more provocative dresses on the Cannes red carpet.

You know the type – they're tailored to fit snugly, made with mesh, and adorned with intricate beadwork in strategic places.

For years, my coworkers and I criticized their domination of red carpets, yet now, with the ban in place at Cannes, I find myself missing them.

This year’s festival, which concludes on May 24, has implemented a dress code banning nudity and overly elaborate trains, citing reasons of decency.

We truly didn’t know the value of what we had until it was gone. To honor these striking fashion moments, let's revisit some audacious gowns from past Cannes that would be barred today.

Eva Longoria's Revealing 2015 Appearance

Eva Longoria stepped onto the 2015 Cannes scene in a Gabriela Cadena dress. It may have seemed more modest from the front with its opaque gray fabric, but the sides told a different story.

The sides were completely sheer, adorned only with clusters of silver sparkles and mesh, revealing her legs, hips, and torso. While it was accepted then, it’s unlikely this look would fit today’s festival standards.

2016: Kendall Jenner Pushed Boundaries with Sheer Fashion

In 2016, Kendall Jenner made headlines in a Roberto Cavalli creation. The sheer black gown, a masterpiece of mesh, showcased much of her body, save for the high-waisted underwear beneath.

Embellished with a snake pattern and light sparkles, this ensemble would likely face security challenges today.

Kendall Jenner's Iconic 2018 Schiaparelli Dress

Jenner captivated once more in 2018, forsaking a bra for a tulle dress by Schiaparelli. Its sheer straps acted as a top, revealing her chest.

The gown's tiered, see-through skirt added volume without hindering other red carpet attendees, but it might not pass current standards.

Deepika Padukone's Voluminous 2019 Gown

Deepika Padukone's 2019 gown by Peter Dundas was a showstopper, featuring puffed sleeves and an extensive bow-driven train trailing down the stairs.

The grandiose train required assistance just to ascend the staircase, underlining how such an ensemble would be problematic now.

Ngoc Trinh's 2019 Bold Leotard Look

Ngoc Trinh's 2019 look, a daring piece from Đỗ Long, essentially a leotard, turned heads. Crafted from entirely sheer mesh, it boasted a backless halter top and keyhole chest detail.

The ensemble challenged dress norms and remains a striking memory.

Bella Hadid's Statement Accessory in 2021

In 2021, Bella Hadid stepped out in a black gown with a Schiaparelli edge. Its plunging neckline and gold lung-shaped necklace as a chest cover would likely spark debate under present day guidelines.

Farhana Bodi's Ruffled Yellow Dress

Farhana Bodi brought flair to the 2021 Festival with a strapless yellow dress, richly layered with ruffles. The long train, a focal point of controversy, might not meet this year’s regulations.

Leila Depina's 2023 Crystal Chainmail Ensemble

Leila Depina impressed in crystal chainmail at 2023 Cannes, complementing the minimal coverage with see-through heels and simple yet elegant jewelry.

Didi Stone's 2024 Challenging Gown

Didi Stone radiated boldness in a 2024 black Stéphane Rolland piece. The dress, styled with circular draping and rope necklaces as a top, captured attention but clashed with new protocol.

Bella Hadid's 2024 Sheer Saint Laurent Dress

In the same year, Bella Hadid graced the festival in a Saint Laurent halter that was almost entirely sheer, with strategic fabric wrap aiding decency.

Mean Sonyta's Impressive Train of 2024

Mean Sonyta aimed to celebrate Cambodian fashion in 2024 with a De l'Elegance gown and an exceptionally long train, furthering the debate on train length compromises.