The 79th Cannes Film Festival has officially begun on the French Riviera, ushering in a new season of major cinema and haute couture. While film critics are only beginning to shape their predictions for this year’s frontrunners, the global spotlight has already shifted to the red carpet outside the Palais des Festivals.
As always, opening night in Cannes brought together some of the biggest names in film, fashion, and international society. Among the evening’s guests were Demi Moore, Heidi Klum, Jane Fonda, and Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu.
One of the most talked-about appearances of the festival’s first day came from Demi Moore. For the press conference, the actress opted for a sleek, understated look from the latest Jacquemus collection.
Heidi Klum embraced dramatic glamour in a soft beige gown featuring an oversized floral accent by Elie Saab. The look quickly became one of the standout fashion moments of the evening.
French actress Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, long associated with Saint Laurent, arrived in a voluminous purple gown designed by Anthony Vaccarello.
At 88, Jane Fonda once again proved her enduring fashion influence, appearing in a shimmering Gucci ensemble paired with a bold Pomellato necklace.
The opening ceremony traditionally took place at Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, where filmmakers, actors, and international stars whose projects are featured in the festival’s official selection will walk the iconic staircase over the next twelve days.
This year’s opening film was the historical comedy Electric Venus by Pierre Salvadori. Leading actors Pio Marmaï and Anaïs Demoustier were among the first to appear before the hundreds of photographers gathered along the carpet.
Festival organizers have already emphasized that Cannes 2026 is placing renewed focus on international auteur cinema and a return to the festival’s artistic roots. At the same time, fashion remains firmly at the center of the conversation. Following last year’s updated dress code restrictions — which effectively limited overly revealing and excessively voluminous gowns — stylists and luxury houses are now navigating a new balance between spectacle and elegance.
