Elle Fanning’s Plunging Corset Ball Gown Sets the Bar High at Cannes

If the 2023 Met Gala got your fashion juices flowing, then you’ll be thrilled to know the 2023 Cannes Film Festival has arrived to bring more showstopping red carpet looks. The annual celebration of fashion and film attracts a slew of A-list celebrities dressed in glamorous attire, and this year has gotten off to a breathtaking start.

Elle Fanning set the bar as she attended the opening ceremony and the “Jeanne du Barry” screening on May 16 wearing an intricate Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton custom-made ball gown that was made from pink tulle and Paris net, with silver bugle bead and crystal embroidery. The look was finished with Cartier diamonds, including a triple-strand choker left on full display. Hairstylist Jenda Alcorn swept up her hair into a tight double bun, and makeup artist Erin Ayanian Monroe provided a soft, peachy glow.

Meanwhile, Catherine Zeta-Jones sported an ultra-plunging Elie Saab gown. The floaty ombré-colored pleated dress had added fabric at the back to form a cape, while the “Wednesday” star added fiery red eyeshadow and ruby drop earrings to complete the look. She was joined by her husband, Michael Douglas, and their daughter, Carys Zeta Douglas, who wore an equally stunning sheer off-white dress. The first day of the film festival also saw the likes of Helen Mirren (with bright-blue hair), Alessandra Ambrosio, and Brie Larson, who hit the red carpet dressed to the nines.

Last year, we saw Anne Hathaway shine in a custom Armani Privé white sequin gown and Bella Hadid in a couple of sultry, statement-making looks, so we have high hopes for this year’s array.

Ahead, see all the looks we’ve loved so far, and keep checking back for more eye-catching ensembles until the Cannes Film Festival closes on May 27. We promise the stars will bring a whole new meaning to “dress to impress.”

Related: Elle and Dakota Fanning Showcase Their Contrasting Styles For a Sisters’ Night Out