The Cannes Film Festival is a fascinating study in contrasts. On one side, you have the red carpet, a world of strict rules where floor-length gowns and bow ties are mandatory, and bare dresses or sneakers are simply not allowed. On the other side, away from the flashbulbs, the streets of the French Riviera become a different kind of runway. Here, celebrities trade formalwear for elevated everyday looks that feel both luxurious and attainable. This year, the 2026 festival has already delivered a masterclass in cannes street style, proving that what happens off the red carpet is just as influential as the gala premieres. Let’s break down seven standout outfits that captured the spirit of the season.
The Trench Coat and Dress Combination
Ashley Simone stepped out of her car in Cannes wearing a head-to-toe Toteme ensemble that instantly set a high bar for the festival’s off-duty fashion. She paired a crinkled midi dress with a satin trench coat, pointed Mary Janes from the same brand, and a Tod’s leather bag. The look was polished yet relaxed, a difficult balance to strike on the busy streets of the Croisette.
What makes this outfit so effective is its versatility. The trench coat adds structure to the softer, crinkled fabric of the dress. The pointed Mary Janes bring a classic, almost schoolgirl elegance that contrasts nicely with the modern silhouette. For someone trying to recreate this vibe without the designer price tag, focus on three things: a dress with texture (crinkled cotton or linen works well), a lightweight trench in a neutral tone like sand or ivory, and shoes with a defined toe shape.
How to Recreate This Look on a Budget
You do not need to spend thousands to capture this aesthetic. Look for a midi dress with intentional wrinkles or pleats from brands like Mango or & Other Stories. Pair it with a classic trench coat from Uniqlo or Zara. The key is the fit—the trench should hit just above the hem of your dress. Finish with a pair of affordable pointed flats or low block heels. A structured crossbody bag in a contrasting leather finish ties it all together.
This formula works because it solves a common problem: how to look put-together without feeling overdressed. The trench coat provides coverage for cooler evenings, while the dress keeps the outfit light enough for midday sun. It is a transitional outfit that works from morning coffee to an afternoon screening.
The Funnel-Neck Jacket as Transitional Outerwear
Demi Moore proved that the funnel-neck jacket is not just a cold-weather staple. She wore one with black trousers, a Gucci Borsetto bag, and Savoy pumps. The jacket, with its high collar and streamlined shape, gave her a sleek silhouette that felt both modern and timeless. This piece was a favorite among fashion insiders last fall and winter, and Moore is making a strong case for wearing it well into spring.
The funnel-neck design solves a specific problem: it eliminates the need for a scarf. The collar stands up on its own, creating a clean line from neck to waist. This makes it ideal for the unpredictable weather of the French Riviera, where mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. If you are looking for a transitional piece that bridges winter and spring, this jacket is worth investing in.
Why This Jacket Works for Cannes Street Style
The cannes street style aesthetic often leans toward relaxed sophistication. A funnel-neck jacket achieves this because it is structured without being stiff. It can be dressed up with trousers and heels, as Moore did, or dressed down with jeans and sneakers. The key is to choose a fabric that has some weight—think wool blends or thick cotton—so the collar holds its shape. Avoid flimsy materials that will collapse.
For a budget-friendly version, look for a quilted or padded jacket with a high neck from brands like Massimo Dutti or Arket. Pair it with straight-leg trousers and a simple leather loafer. The result is an outfit that looks intentional and effortless, perfect for a day of festival hopping.
The Return of the Capri Set
Bella Hadid, often called the queen of Cannes, made a highly anticipated return to the festival this year. While her custom Prada gown on the red carpet drew headlines, her off-duty look was equally buzzworthy. She wore an archival Prada capri set—a cropped jacket and matching capri pants—paired with Puma Speedcat sneakers. The look was a nod to early 2000s fashion, updated with modern tailoring.
Capri pants have been making a quiet comeback, and this outfit shows they can feel fresh rather than dated. The key is the set. When the top and bottom match, the outfit reads as intentional and polished, even with sneakers. Hadid’s choice of footwear—low-profile racing sneakers—kept the look grounded and practical for walking the festival streets.
How to Style a Capri Set for Everyday Wear
If you want to try this trend, start with a linen or cotton set in a neutral color like beige, black, or navy. The fabric should be breathable, as the French Riviera can get warm. Avoid overly tight fits; the capri should hit just below the knee for a balanced proportion. Pair it with simple sneakers or flat sandals. A bucket bag or small shoulder bag completes the silhouette without overwhelming it.
This look solves a common problem for festival-goers: how to stay comfortable while still looking fashionable. The capri set allows for easy movement, and the matching pieces eliminate the need to coordinate separates. It is a one-and-done outfit that still looks curated.
The Slip Skirt and Simple Tee
Rebecca Donaldson, girlfriend of Formula One driver Carlos Sainz, demonstrated that sometimes the simplest looks are the most striking. She wore a classic white slip skirt paired with a sleek gray tee. The combination was understated but effective, proving that cannes street style does not require layers of accessories or bold prints.
The slip skirt is a versatile piece that works for many occasions. Its smooth, satin-like finish adds a hint of elegance, while the cotton tee keeps the outfit casual. This balance is the essence of French Riviera style: effortless, never try-hard. Donaldson finished the look with kitten-heel pumps, which added just enough polish without sacrificing comfort.
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Building a Capsule Wardrobe Around a Slip Skirt
A white slip skirt can be the foundation of a festival capsule wardrobe. Pair it with a striped boatneck top for a nautical feel, or with a cashmere sweater for cooler evenings. The key is to keep the top simple and let the skirt do the talking. For footwear, pointed flats or low heels work best. Avoid chunky shoes, which can clash with the skirt’s fluid lines.
This outfit solves a common packing problem: how to bring fewer items while still having multiple looks. A slip skirt takes up minimal space in a suitcase and can be dressed up or down with different tops and shoes. It is a practical choice for anyone attending a multi-day event like Cannes.
The Minidress and Trench Coat
Riley Keough took a similar approach to Ashley Simone but chose a minidress silhouette instead of a midi length. She wore a white minidress with a Nour Hammour trench coat, peep-toe sandals, and classic Wayfarer sunglasses. The look was fresh and youthful, with the trench coat adding a layer of sophistication that kept the minidress from feeling too casual.
This combination is ideal for airport arrivals or daytime events. The minidress is easy to move in and works well in warmer weather, while the trench coat provides coverage when needed. Keough’s choice of peep-toe sandals added a playful touch, while the Wayfarers gave the outfit a timeless, almost retro feel.
Finding the Right Minidress for Your Body Type
When choosing a minidress for a look like this, consider the fabric and fit. A structured cotton or linen dress holds its shape better than a stretchy knit. Look for details like a defined waist or a slight A-line skirt, which flatter most body types. The trench coat should be slightly oversized so it does not compete with the dress. Keep accessories minimal—a simple leather bag and classic sunglasses are enough.
This outfit solves a common problem for spring and summer travel: how to look chic without overheating. The minidress allows for airflow, while the trench coat can be removed when the sun is high. It is a practical, stylish choice for the festival circuit.
The Role of Street Style Photography
Street style photography has become an integral part of the Cannes Film Festival. Photographers camp outside hotels and along the Croisette, capturing celebrities as they arrive for screenings or step out for coffee. These images are published almost instantly, influencing fashion trends for the coming season. A single photo of a celebrity in a specific trench coat or pair of sneakers can drive sales and spark copycat looks.
This phenomenon solves a problem for the fashion industry: how to generate buzz for wearable, everyday pieces. Red carpet gowns are aspirational but often impractical. Street style looks, on the other hand, are relatable. They show how real people can incorporate designer pieces into their daily lives. For brands, this is invaluable marketing. For consumers, it is a source of inspiration.
What This Means for Your Own Style
You do not need to be a celebrity to benefit from street style trends. Pay attention to the silhouettes and color palettes that emerge from Cannes each year. The trench coat and dress combination, the funnel-neck jacket, and the capri set are all ideas you can adapt for your own wardrobe. Start with one piece—a neutral trench or a slip skirt—and build from there.
The key is to focus on fit and fabric rather than logos. A well-tailored jacket in a quality fabric will always look more expensive than a fast-fashion piece with a visible brand name. Invest in staples that you can wear for years, and you will capture the essence of cannes street style without needing a stylist or a six-figure budget.
