Heidi Klum | Source: Getty Images
Heidi Klum Breaks 2025 Cannes Film Festival Dress Code with Bold Outfit
The model knows how to make an entrance, and this year’s Cannes Film Festival was no exception as she made her own rules on the red carpet.
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Heidi Klum stunned on the red carpet at the "Partir Un Jour" (Leave One Day) screening on May 13 in a breathtaking Elie Saab gown. But while the floral masterpiece wowed photographers, it also stirred controversy for going against the festival's recently updated dress code.
Stepping onto the red carpet at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, the 51-year-old turned heads in a dramatic, petal-layered gown by Elie Saab. The illusion-style dress featured sculpted pink organza designed to resemble blossoming flowers.
It also had a strapless neckline, a thigh-high slit, and a sweeping train that spilled across the carpet. Klum completed the look with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and soft glam—smoky eyes, light blush, and understated lips.
However, her showstopping appearance came with a side of rule-breaking. The Cannes Film Festival recently introduced stricter guidelines for its evening gala screenings held at the Grand Théâtre Lumière.
These include recommendations for more streamlined attire, such as tuxedos, cocktail dresses, and dark suits. The rules also clearly state, "Voluminous outfits, in particular those with a large train, that hinder the proper flow of traffic of guests and complicate seating in the theater are not permitted."
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According to the official policy, guests not adhering to these rules would even be denied red carpet access. Yet Klum, known for her bold fashion choices, appeared unfazed as she swept through in a gown that defied the guidelines entirely.
While some viewers criticized the dress for bending the rules, others praised her for embracing high fashion. One fan questioned, "Heidi Klum dress was approved? 👀[sic]" Another fan sounded genuinely puzzled, asking, "How did they let Heidi Klum on the RC with that giant dress?"
Amid the confusion, one person wondered, "I thought no voluminous dresses or long trains 🤔" and another individual asked, "I thought trains are forbidden?" Someone else joined in with disbelief, writing, "I thought that was forbidden ?"
One fan didn’t hold back, saying, "She shouldn't have been let in tbh. The dress is pretty but I just know Heidi basically shrugged in a 'rules for thee' kind of way [sic]." But not everyone was critical. Some admired her daring choice, with one fan admitting, "I would ignore the rules too if my dress looked like that."
Another admirer cheered her on enthusiastically, "Wow , Heidi looks amazing 👏👏❤️" And finally, one user seemed unsure why the two celebrities were seen together, asking, "Bella and Heidi Klum?"
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Whether seen as a fashion faux pas or a fearless style moment, Heidi Klum's appearance ensured she was one of the most talked-about stars of the night.
Even after bending the rules, Klum radiates joy on the red carpet—captured mid-blow of a playful kiss, she flaunts her manicured nails and glimmering rings, clearly reveling in the moment.
An impeccable aerial shot captures the full drama of Klum’s gown, its cascading train flowing gracefully behind her. The breathtaking view makes it clear why she bent the rules to wear such a stunning piece.
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The moment feels cinematic—Klum stands at the center of the red carpet, striking a pose as photographers surround her, each one eager to capture her from every angle in all her breathtaking glory.
Klum smiles, clearly savoring the moment and the attention that comes with it. One leg peeks through the thigh-high slit of her gown, revealing a shimmering silver stiletto that adds to the drama of her look.
A closer shot reveals the intricate beauty of Klum’s gown—each ruffled layer mimicking delicate petals, softly glowing in shades of pink. The craftsmanship is exquisite, giving the dress a romantic, almost ethereal quality up close.
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A graceful side shot captures Klum mid-stride, her radiant smile lighting up the frame. Her blonde hair cascades effortlessly over her shoulders as she gently lifts her gown with one hand.
Though a few other celebrities appear in the frame, Klum effortlessly commands attention. Her elegance and poise keep her firmly in the spotlight, making her the natural focal point the moment one glances at the picture.
The shot is like gazing at a breathtaking flower garden. Klum's gown unfolds from the train to the bodice in a cascade of sculpted petals, each layer standing out in soft pink brilliance. It’s a masterful display of couture that captures nature’s beauty.
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Klum is caught mid-wave, her excited smile lighting up the moment. The front of her gown reveals meticulously sculpted layers that resemble petals gently unfurling—like a flower in bloom—showcasing the thoughtful design behind the dramatic silhouette.
From a different angle, with her back to the camera, the full drama of Klum’s gown comes into view. The cascading train fans out behind her like a blooming rose, each petal-like layer flowing with precision and grace, making the back of the dress just as captivating as the front.
This full-body shot show Klum looking absolutely stunning, one hand resting on her thigh, the other lifted in a graceful wave to photographers. Every detail of her look, from the gown to her confident stance, radiates magnificence.
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In a close-up shot, Klum strikes a confident pose with both hands on her waist, exuding elegance. Her radiant smile, flawless glam, and attire come together in a moment of pure red carpet mastery.
The scene is pure red carpet drama. Klum looks like she’s cheering, full of energy and charisma. Behind her, photographers crouch, stretch, and angle their cameras in every direction, all trying to capture her striking presence from every possible vantage point.
Klum's wave is captured from behind, highlighting her toned arms framed by the delicate structure of the gown. The shot blends strength and elegance, adding softness to her poised, graceful form.
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Another full-length shot captures Klum commanding the red carpet. Behind her, photographers form a bustling backdrop, all eyes and lenses focused on her as she effortlessly steals the scene.
Beauty and handsomeness collide in one captivating shot as Klum poses on the stairs alongside a dashing Carlos Sainz Jr. and the ever-glamorous Eva Longoria — a trio that effortlessly lights up the picture.
Klum strikes a powerful pose alone on the stairs, gazing downward at the cameras below — a vision of confidence and elegance commanding the spotlight from above.
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An aerial shot offers a striking view of Klum’s gown from above, subtly revealing her cleavage as part of the intricate neckline.
A side shot captures Klum mid-pose, her head thrown back in a joyful smile, striking with the confidence of a runway model. Her posture, full of flair and grace, turns the red carpet into her personal catwalk.
In a striking pose, Klum throws one leg forward like a model presenting a prized accessory—her shimmering silver stilettos—capturing the essence of high fashion with effortless confidence.
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Klum smiles softly, soaking in the moment—the calm on her face contrasting beautifully with the whirlwind of photographers surrounding her.
A last look at the entirety of Klum's gown—because its craftsmanship, and the woman wearing it, are nothing short of a masterpiece.
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