Cannes style: beyond the red carpet, stars define effortless cool
The French Riviera is ablaze with cinematic energy, but the true style revelations at the 2026 cannes Film Festival aren't unfolding on the red carpet—they're happening in the streets. While the gowns and tuxedos command attention, it’s the off-duty looks, the carefully curated casual moments, that are setting the trends and inspiring wardrobes worldwide. Vogue is, naturally, keeping a close eye.
The return of the poplin set
Bella Hadid’s arrival alone sent ripples through the fashion world. Sporting a vintage Prada Sport set in light blue poplin—paired, unexpectedly, with silver Puma Speedcat sneakers—she single-handedly resurrected a '90s aesthetic with a distinctly modern edge. The pairing of high-low elements, the unexpected sneaker choice, speaks volumes about the current mood: a desire for both nostalgia and a rebellious twist. The key takeaway? Don’t be afraid to mix vintage with contemporary, and embrace the metallic sneaker trend that’s proving remarkably resilient.
But it’s not just about replicating Hadid’s exact look. Consider a similar set using capri pants and a cotton top, accessorized with a '90s-inspired black tote, vintage frames, and a timeless gold watch. The details are what elevate the look from simple to chic.
Transitional outerwear reigns supreme
Forget heavy winter coats; this year at cannes, it’s all about the trench. Riley Keough and Barbara Palvin opted for classic khaki silhouettes, demonstrating the trench’s enduring versatility. Simone Ashley, however, took a more daring approach, arriving at Nice airport in a creamy white satin version from Toteme, layered over a textured tank dress and black Mary Jane flats. The effect was effortlessly Parisian, a masterclass in understated elegance.
Demi Moore, meanwhile, channeled jet-set glamour with a beige bomber jacket, silky tank top, and black curved trouser pants, completing the look with a Gucci Borsetto Boston bag and Savoy pumps. It’s a testament to Moore’s enduring style that she can make even the most casual ensemble feel undeniably chic.
The essentials: building a riviera wardrobe
Beyond the statement pieces, several key items emerged as staples of the Cannes street style scene. Julianne Moore’s travel uniform—a crisp white button-down shirt, black trousers, and Adidas Stan Smith sneakers—is a lesson in timeless simplicity. Chloé Zhao, the best-dressed director currently gracing the festival, showcased a red knit dress from Gabriela Hearst’s fall 2025 collection, proving that a bold color can be both statement-making and refined. The recurring theme? Wardrobe essentials, elevated with thoughtful accessories.
The must-haves, according to our editors, include: a poplin top (St. Agni’s wrap top is a standout), silver sneakers (Puma Speedcat, naturally), a bucket bag (Lié Studio Norma), an oversized trench (Burberry Ellingham), black trousers (ME+EM), a relaxed knit (Khaite Mae), white jeans (Frame), and heeled mules (Jude Haze).
The overall impression is one of understated luxury, a celebration of effortless style over ostentatious displays. It’s a look that’s both aspirational and attainable, proving that you don’t need a designer gown to make a statement at Cannes—or anywhere else, for that matter.
As Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, the embodiment of Parisian chic, demonstrated with her blue button-down shirt, white jeans, and white tennis sneakers, sometimes the simplest looks are the most impactful. The key is confidence, a touch of French flair, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. The stars may descend upon Cannes for the films, but they’re leaving behind a legacy of style that will resonate long after the festival ends.