The 77th Cannes Film Festival has kicked off, with Arab representation having their moment on the prestigious event’s red carpet.
Running from May 14-25, the festival saw plenty of Arab talent on its opening day and at the screening of The Second Act. Among the most noteworthy is Lebanese filmmaker and actor Nadine Labaki, who has been selected as one of the distinguished Palme d’Or jury members.
Labaki ditched glamorous gowns for a sharp Versace jumpsuit, followed by a black power suit, and matched the look with a bow tie.
Indeed, there was no lack of swoon-worthy dresses on the red carpet, designed by those who have mastered the art.
Egyptian icon Yousra wore in a sparkling Tony Ward Couture gown with silver and gold embroidery, paired with jewelry by Cartier.
Muted hues with dazzling embellishment were also favored by Farhana Bodi, who wore a strapless silver gown by Dubai-based Omani brand Atelier Zuhra and Diala Makki, who sported a modest caped jumpsuit in a blush pink color by Syrian designer Rami Al Ali.
Part-Saudi model Shanina Shaik stunned in a crimson Zuhair Murad gown with a sweetheart neckline and an overskirt, picked from the Lebanese designer’s Fall 2024 collection. Lebanese presenter Raya Abirached and German supermodel Heidi Klum also chose the color.
The presenter wore a strapless Georges Chakra gown with a thigh-high slit, while the German supermodel donned a Saiid Kobeisy couture number.
Truly, there is no other color truly as timeless as black, and actress and activist Jane Fonda and Saudi entrepreneur Yara Alnamlah agreed. Fonda paid homage to the region in a striking Elie Saab jumpsuit, Alnamlah was a vision in a custom Rami Kadi gown with a statement gold necklace by Chaumet.
Check out all the Arab stars and designers spotted at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Cannes Film Festival below.