Scarlett Johansson arrived at this year’s Cannes Film Festival not just as a Hollywood icon—but as a first-time director. With the premiere of Eleanor The Great, which earned a five-minute standing ovation, Johansson’s presence on the French Riviera signals a bold new chapter in her already storied career. But it wasn’t just her cinematic debut that had onlookers talking. With the expert styling of Kate Young, Johansson’s fashion moments throughout the week have delivered an elevated take on modern femininity that resists the obvious.
The standout look? A sweeping lavender strapless Prada gown, styled for the Vie Privée red carpet. “We definitely wanted her to feel strong and confident—nothing tricky or overly girly,” said Young, who crafted a look that was ethereal without veering into cliché. The powdered violet gown, detailed with delicately ruched tulle and a fluid train, was paired with dazzling De Beers diamond teardrop earrings, a trio of bracelets, and a bold green diamond ring that made a statement without shouting. Johansson’s sleek twisted bun and blotted red lipstick added a timeless finishing touch—one that felt as fitting in Cannes as it would be at the Oscars.
Johansson’s Cannes fashion this year is not just about spectacle—it’s about precision. “We worked with Prada and wanted something ethereal and beautiful,” Young shared. The collaboration was seamless, with jewelry playing an equally critical role. The De Beers pieces were chosen not just for brilliance but for how their contemporary design echoed the modern elegance of the gown itself.
Outside the red carpet, Johansson embraced a more understated style while promoting her directorial work. For the screening of Eleanor The Great, she opted for a sleek black halter-neck midi dress—minimalist, elegant, and completely on-brand. At the film’s photocall, her look channeled authority and artistic control: a tailored pinstripe jacket over a crisp white shirt and pleated skirt. It was a sartorial nod to the boardroom as much as the director’s chair—a blend of structure and intention.
Cannes’ new dress code regulations—targeting sheer gowns and excessive trains—have raised eyebrows across the industry, but Young’s approach hasn’t been affected. “It hasn’t really impacted my work because that’s not really my style,” she noted.
“I think the red carpet has been fantastic so far this year because of, or in spite of, the dress code”
That quiet defiance is precisely what makes Johansson and Young’s Cannes fashion so compelling this year. Rather than bending to trends or spectacle, each look feels curated, empowered, and rooted in a strong point of view. The actress may be taking a new seat behind the camera, but on the red carpet, she remains a commanding force.
