The 2025 Cannes Film Festival is all about elegance, and this year, black is the star. From the very first day of the event, which runs from May 14 to May 25, celebrities have been stepping onto the red carpet dressed in stunning black outfits. With a new unofficial dress code in place, black has become the color of choice. Stars have embraced this timeless look in ways that feel both modern and classic.
The rise of black on the red carpet is more than a fashion moment. It signals a return to simplicity and elegance. For many stars and designers, black represents power, control, and confidence. Instead of loud colors and bold prints, the focus this year is on clean shapes, rich fabrics, and quiet beauty. The festival has turned into a showcase of sharp tailoring and subtle glamour.
Organizers introduced a new guideline for this year’s event, suggesting a more formal and refined look. While it’s not a strict rule, many stars have followed it. This shift has pushed celebrities and designers to think about style in a new way. Black naturally fits the mood. It’s classic, elegant, and works well in both day and evening settings. On camera, black stands out without needing extra sparkle.
Several well-known celebrities helped start this trend. Bella Hadid arrived at Cannes in a black gown that reminded many of old Hollywood films. The dress featured a high neckline, long train, and detailed fabric that gave it a rich texture. Selena Gomez also turned heads in a black strapless dress. Her look was simple but strong, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about outfits of the event.
Other stars joined the trend, including Zendaya, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Timothée Chalamet. Each of them brought their own twist to the look. While some chose flowing gowns, others wore sleek suits. But they all had one thing in common: black was the base. It became a canvas for creative design and personal expression.
Fashion experts say the black trend goes beyond style. It also reflects a shift in how stars want to be seen. After years of bright and flashy outfits, many are now turning to simpler, more refined fashion. Black allows them to highlight the shape and structure of what they’re wearing. It also sends a message of quiet strength.
Sustainability is another key part of this trend. Several celebrities chose black dresses and suits that were either vintage or made with eco-friendly materials. Some outfits were recycled from earlier events. Others used fabrics that are less harmful to the environment. This choice supports a growing movement in the fashion world that values reuse and low-impact design.
Top fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and Valentino also followed this path. Their black looks included elements of green fashion, like using organic cotton or natural dyes. This helps connect the idea of elegance with responsibility. It shows that fashion can be both beautiful and kind to the planet.
Social media helped push this trend even further. Photos of black outfits shared on Instagram and TikTok received high engagement. Fans praised the looks for their timeless charm and modern flair. Hashtags like #CannesBlack and #NoirStyle quickly began trending during the first few days of the event.
Men also played a big role in this black fashion wave. Many wore updated versions of the classic tuxedo. Others took more creative paths, with textured suits, velvet jackets, and layered black shirts. Even small details like black rings, boots, or nail polish added to the look.
With the festival still ongoing, more black fashion moments are expected to appear. This year’s trend has set a new tone for red carpet style, one that values class and calm over loud statements. It seems likely that this look will continue to influence other big events, from award shows to global fashion weeks.
The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has made one thing clear. Black is not just a color—it’s a message. It speaks of grace, strength, and purpose. And right now, it’s leading the fashion conversation.
