Fashion Statements at Cannes: Cate Blanchett’s Dress and More

The Cannes Festival in France has always been a hotspot for fashion statements, but this year, the red carpet has become a platform for making political statements about the Israel-Hamas conflict. Attendees have been seen wearing sashes calling for the return of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas and pins advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza.

However, the most buzz-worthy fashion statement came from actress Cate Blanchett, who wore a seemingly simple black dress to the premiere of “The Apprentice.” As she walked the red carpet, the dress revealed flashes of pink, white, and green, leading many to interpret it as a tribute to the Palestinian flag.

While Ms. Blanchett has not publicly commented on the dress, her previous activism in calling for a cease-fire in Gaza adds weight to the speculation. The dress, technically pink, black, and green, without the red carpet beneath it, may not resemble the flag, but the online response to the photos of her in the dress speaks volumes.

In the midst of these fashion statements, three independent designers have made somber announcements. Roksanda Ilincic sold her label to avoid bankruptcy, Mara Hoffman shuttered her namesake brand after 24 years, and The Vampire’s Wife closed after eight years in business. The challenging wholesale environment and rising costs have made it difficult for independent designers to compete.

On a lighter note, Ssense has released a new bridal collection targeting brides who want unconventional wedding attire. The collection includes pieces from 17 brands, offering fashion-forward options for brides who see the aisle as a runway. With exclusive looks from designers like Simone Rocha and Molly Goddard, brides can now say “I do” in style.