No oversized silhouettes? No problem! Here’s how these celebs brought back the red carpet drama

The Cannes Film Festival has officially begun, and if there’s one thing everyone can’t stop talking about—apart from Bella Hadid’s sleek red carpet moment—it’s the shockwave that came in the form of a last-minute dress code banning nudity and voluminous silhouettes with dramatic trains. Naturally, the fashion world was up in arms—not just because of the rule itself, but because the sudden announcement left designers and celebrities with little to no time to tweak their looks, if needed. And let’s be real: no volume often translates to no red carpet drama.

Thankfully, the first wave of red carpet images proved us wrong. Because even though there were no long trains crowding the red carpet and no sheer ensembles causing a frenzy on social media, the red carpet certainly wasn't short of drama. We saw a wave of crystal-embellished bodices that added just the right amount of sparkle without overdoing it, along with sculptural forms, flouncy details, and hints of eclecticism animating the red carpet. Take a look. 

Eva Longoria 

Eva Longoria certainly brought the drama in this metallic gold gown from Tamara Ralph’s Spring/Summer 2025 Couture collection. The sleek black and gold ensemble might be well within the dress code, but the gold stripes, the lace-up corset back, and the large black bow trailing into a luxe train was all the drama we needed. 

Hofit Golan

A quick scroll through Hofit Golan’s Instagram hints at a last-minute outfit switch—and while the dramatic ballgown may have been left behind, her silver embellished gown by Parisian couture house Joli Poli more than delivers. With a crystal-encrusted bodice, sheer panelling, and layers of intricate detailing, this look proves that drama doesn’t need volume to make a statement.

Farhana Bodi 

This look was pure Bling Barbie magic for Dubai Bling star Farhana Bodi. She dialled up the drama in a crystal-embellished Atelier Zuhra gown that did most of the talking, while the asymmetric silhouette and sculptural ruffles brought the extra flair—because when it comes to red carpet drama, more is more!

Aliia Roza 

Russia-born Aliia Roza brought the ultimate dose of drama to the Cannes Film Festival in a hand-painted hoop skirt dress by Rob Prior that had everyone talking. The artwork, showcasing women from all walks of life, was a powerful tribute to empowerment and unity. It also featured a dove at the top, symbolising peace, alongside the iconic Cannes logo—talk about making a statement!

Urvashi Rautela 

Urvashi Rautela brought all the drama to Cannes 2025 in a custom Michael Cinco gown, with vibrant patterns inspired by the intricate mosaic art of Mexico. The multi-coloured fishtail silhouette, complete with stunning embellishments, added an architectural edge to her look. While we’re obsessed with the gown and the oversized tiara, it’s the crystal parrot-shaped clutch by Judith Leiber (worth ₹4.68 lakh) that really stole the spotlight, blending bold culture with red carpet glamour in the best way!

Shanina Shaik

Shanina Shaik clearly got the no-volume memo—but that didn't stop her from showing up to Cannes ready to slay. Shaik struck the perfect balance between sleek and glam at Cannes 2025. Her strapless gown paired a pared-back, sculpted black bodice with a crystal-studded peplum and a sheer, embellished skirt that brought all the sparkle. It was the ultimate lesson in how to keep it simple up top and bring the drama down below. 

Alessandra Ambrosio

Alessandra Ambrosio turned the Cannes carpet into her personal runway in a striking emerald green number from Zuhair Murad’s Spring 2025 Couture collection. With its sculpted strapless bodice, thigh-high slit, and over-the-top detachable ruffled sleeves, this look was pure red carpet drama with a side of glam goddess energy.

All images: Getty Images

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