Adorned backs and archival threads
May 28, 2024
This year's Cannes Film Festival has come to an end with the rolling up of the famous red carpet at the Palais des Festivals. The event, which took place from May 14 to 25, included a closing ceremony where stars and designers debuted highly anticipated projects alongside their spectacular attire.
In 1939, France decided to establish its own international film festival to counter the influence of the Venice International Film Festival, controlled by the Italian fascist regime. The outbreak of World War II caused the preparation work to come to a halt. The first edition of the festival was organized by the French Association for Artistic Action, the French Ministry of Industry, and the French Ministry of Commerce and held in Cannes, in the south of France, on September 20, 1946.
In an effort to expand into new markets and increase visibility, fashion labels are increasingly interacting with the film industry at Cannes. For example, Chanel has supported artists and filmmakers by working with the Tribeca Festival for 19 years. They dressed important figures for the red carpet and promoted multiple films at Cannes this year.
Another significant player in the film industry is Kering, which organizes the Women in Motion celebration honoring the achievements of women in the industry. During a Cannes event, Malaysian director Amanda Nell Eu received their Emerging Talent Award.
One brand under Kering that stands out is Saint Laurent, which opened a production studio of its own last year. Their creative director was given the opportunity to create costumes and guide the brand's future while they promoted three films that were in competition for the 2024 selection at Cannes.
The Cannes Film Festival expands the focus for fashion labels during awards season in addition to providing fresh commercial prospects and creative help. It has developed into a platform for opulent statements that draws celebrities from all over the world and sets high fashion trends.
Statement backs
During the Cannes Film Festival this year, attention was drawn to the elaborate detailing on the backs of the gowns that famous guests wore. The enticement of shimmer and shine cascaded down bare shoulders in exquisite adornment, replacing the conventional statement necklaces. Notable examples include Bella Hadid's combination of Chopard jewelry with a 2006 Dsquared dress decorated with jeweled straps and Eva Herzigova's black silk Saint Laurent dress, which featured three chain beadings hanging down her open back.
Chic minimalism
Cannes style was personified by simple black floor-length gowns made of delicate fabrics, exuding an air of subtle elegance. Leading the trend were Saint Laurent's streamlined designs, which gave the red carpet a laid-back sophistication enhanced by striking jewelry accents.
Retro revival
The revival of retro and vintage-inspired fashion, with designers taking cues from renowned fashion archives, was a major topic at this year's festival. Bella Hadid looked great in a Versace SS01 ensemble with a corseted bodice, and Naomi Campbell looked stunning in a Chanel gown with a tiered panel from the FW96 collection. Sequins were a major theme.
Vintage glitz
Channeling the legendary 'New Look' silhouette from Dior's 1950s archives, French singer Yseult left a lasting impression. Her look put a contemporary spin on a timeless period with a waist-cinching jacket, black pleated skirt, straw hat, and leather gloves.
