The Cannes Film Festival continues to provide endless fashion inspiration, but if you’ve only been watching the red carpet looks, you’re probably missing out. Since Cannes is located on the French Riviera, stars often have to travel by boat, which creates the opportunity for a completely different set of holiday ensembles. While nonetheless chic, these casual Cannes looks tend to be a bit more casual: think crochet ensembles, floral micro mini dresses and loose linen suits. Whether you’re heading to a yacht party or a cruise, if you look back at the history of the film festival and its most fashionable attendees, you’ll find plenty of style inspiration for a variety of outdoor occasions.
Cannes has always been full of stylish stars, from supermodels to socialites and, of course, actors promoting their latest projects. For them, fashion is as ubiquitous at the event as film, and they take every opportunity to change up their look – including their street (or in this case, boat) style. Some of the best examples from Cannes’ past and present capture the casual yet glamorous atmosphere that is synonymous with the south of France. And year after year there are a few that have that perfect combination down to science. Cannes’ biggest style stars include Bella Hadid, Naomi Campbell, Uma Thurman and, of course, Jane Birkin. But that list is growing quickly, as evidenced by some of the looks from this season’s festivities.
Ready to set sail? Ahead, you’ll find all the boathouse style inspiration you could ever need, based on some of Cannes’ most iconic outfits, including many from decades ago that feel just as fresh today.
Grace Kelly, 1955
In cigarette pants and a white button-down shirt, Kelly may be the gold standard of chic sailing attire forever.
Brigitte Bardot, 1956
Bardot brought many bomb styles to Cannes, including this black corset dress.
Jane Birkin, 1968
Dressed in a babydoll mini dress and signature basket bag, the 1968 Birkin creation is just as relevant in 2024.
Glenda Jackson and Faye Dunaway, 1976
With flowing maxi suits and loose skirts, Jackson and Dunaway are great references for boat looks that are dressed up yet casual.
Amanda Lear, 1979
The French singer’s sequined strapless top and white skirt with maximalist jewelry is still a look you can aspire to (whether on or off the boat).
Diana, Princess of Wales, 1987
Princess Diana’s flowing blue dress from the 1987 ceremony is always cited as a Cannes favorite, but her casual navy, white and gold outfit is a classic nautical combo.
Laura Dern, 1990
Dern’s bra top with a flowing blouse and pants perfectly combined many black and white patterns.
Uma Thurman, 1993
Strappy flat sandals and a breezy shirt dress? Thurman’s 1993 Cannes look was boat style perfection.
Naomi Campbell, 1998
Campbell’s silky slit-and-tie ensemble will be chic and comfortable on a boat trip.
Kendall Jenner, 2017
When it comes to boater style, you can never go wrong with nautical stripes, as Jenner proved with her crop top in 2017.
Bella Hadid, 2017
Hadid’s white crochet set and sneakers from Cannes 2017 will be coveted for years to come.
Elle Fanning, 2023
Fanning’s baggy pants and button-up belts paired with oversized sunglasses and a black leather bag are the epitome of laid-back luxury.
Meryl Streep, 2024
Streep’s white Michael Kors suit and Panama hat became an instant icon when it comes to off-duty looks in Cannes.
