Stewart & swennen redefine cannes: sneakers under chanel couture
Kristen Stewart shattered red carpet expectations at Cannes Film Festival this weekend, proving that high Fashion can coexist with a distinctly rebellious spirit.
A clash of worlds: tweed, sneakers, and chanel’s new direction
The actress and her longtime stylist, Tara Swennen, consistently deliver memorable looks, and this year’s outing was no exception. But it wasn’t simply about extravagance; it was about subverting expectations, blending artful glamour with a refreshingly casual edge.
Stewart’s initial appearance – a sheer gray “tweed” top and skirt from Chanel’s spring 2026 couture collection – immediately grabbed attention. Swennen described the piece as “a lightweight take on a classic tweed,” emphasizing the delicate frayed edges and jeweled buttons. What initially appeared to be a daringly transparent ensemble cleverly concealed a foundation of boy shorts and a camisole – a detail Swennen highlighted with a wry smile.
Breaking the rules, embracing authenticity
Later, she slipped into a vibrant red and black knit Chanel gown from Blazy’s fall 2026 collection, a bold choice that perfectly complemented her new role in Quentin Dupieux’s Full Phil. Swennen noted the “beautiful relationship” between Stewart, Chanel, and Matthieu Blazy, explaining that Blazy’s designs are now “a little lighter, a little slouchier, and a little less rigid” – a sensibility that aligns perfectly with Stewart’s personal style.
It’s a departure from the traditionally restrictive rules of Cannes, where flat shoes and voluminous designs are often discouraged. Yet, Swennen insists that the rules are “malleable” if a look remains polished. “If it’s not trashy and people remain polished, I think [the rules are] malleable.” The duo’s willingness to push boundaries, a sentiment echoed by Stewart herself, is precisely why their collaborations continue to resonate.
Adding an unexpected twist, Stewart wore comfortable Nike and Converse sneakers underneath her couture gowns – a deliberate statement of youthful nonchalance. “We wanted to have a youthful and effortless vibe, but also have it be grounded in real movement, rather than polished perfection,” Swennen explained. This juxtaposition of high-end Fashion and everyday practicality felt strikingly authentic, a deliberate rejection of the overly-staged red carpet aesthetic.
Beyond the glamour: a commitment to self-expression
The choice of minimal makeup further emphasized this unconventional approach. Swennen noted Stewart’s willingness to “go a little bit different” with her glam, particularly with the absence of a signature red lip – a bold move that worked surprisingly well with her recent pixie cut.
Ultimately, Stewart and Swennen’s Cannes appearance wasn’t just about showcasing Chanel’s latest collection; it was about celebrating individuality and embracing a more relaxed, yet undeniably chic, approach to red carpet dressing. The Biarrritz Nouvelles Vagues Festival awaits, and hints suggest a continued “French Cruise” sartorial theme. Stewart’s influence, it seems, is far from over.