In every major film festival, beyond the celebration of the globe’s finest cinematic masterpieces, fashion also gets a major spotlight. In every opening night, the red carpet is rolled out and celebrities strut through, dressed in their finest.
With the Cannes Film Festival, many Arab celebrities have walked the red carpet, yet not all of them did it with the same finesse. Let’s take an over-the-years look at Arab celebrities, tracing their evolution from cringeworthy dresses to stunning, show-stopping iconic fashion staples.
Fifi Abdou Bringing Some Pharaoh Vibes
Is that Cleopatra waving at the camera? Did some time travel mishap take place? No, this is merely Fifi Abdou making her usual unexpected, head-turning entrance at one of the biggest global film events. The Fouad Sarkis-designed dress is definitely making a statement but falls short of being a fashion staple.
Bella Hadid’s 101 Dalmatians Gone Wrong
To many, this was celebrated as a vintage classic during the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. The Chanel black-and-white dress was seen as a head-turner, yet when looking closely, it is more akin to a failed revival of the 101 Dalmatians.
Salma Abu Deif Arriving In Black Elegance
Now we are going to dive into the good stuff. Making her debut at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, Abu Deif truly turned heads with her first red carpet-appearance at the major event. For her Cannes debut, Abu Deif kept it simple and chic by donning a black Pinko dress paired with gorgeous Chopard jewelry.
Raya Adding In Pink Floral Goodness
From interviewing more celebrities than you can count to being the host of Arab’s Got Talent, Lebanese presenter Raya Abirached keeps rising up. Her 2023 Cannes look was no exception as she strutted the red carpet in a gorgeous fuchsia number designed by Gemy Maalouf.
Mona Zaki’s Artistic Statement Dress
In that same year, when Abirached shone in her fuchsia dress, Egyptian-acclaimed actress Mona Zaki also brought over the heat.
What felt like a painting coming to life, Zaki arrived on the red carpet in a strapless Zuhair Murad creation in two shades: dusty rose and deep inky blue. The true masterpiece, though, was the print on her skirt, which depicted a scene of sailing ships across swirling waters.
There you have it. From worst to best, Arab celebrities brought a unique string of fashion moments to the Cannes red carpet. Tell us, which look is your favorite so far?