The best dressed at Venice Film Festival 2020
The addition of temperature tests and face masks might have made the 77th Venice Film Festival a little different in comparison with other years, but one thing has remained the same; it has served us looks! Like every year, the red carpet has seen many fashion moments (some greater than others) but these are the 10 best of Venice Film Festival 2020.
Making her first ever red-carpet debut, Maty Fall Diba looked stunning in her custom-made Etro gown. The silk and chiffon dress showcased Etro’s well-known Paisley print and was embellished with golden thread for an extra touch of luxury. With the halter neck bodice flattering the 19-year-old so well, accessories were kept to a minimum with just a pair of Pomellato’s minimalist earrings. If this is the dress Diba wears for her first red carpet, then we can’t wait to see what future looks she has in store for us.
No red carpet is complete without a touch of Versace, and this year’s is no exception. Italian singer Elodie wowed in this silver Atelier Versace gown. Designed by Donatella herself, the dress showcased the Italian fashion house’s trademark metal mesh. A high-leg split and sculptured crystal-encrusted neckline added drama to a sleek silhouette. A slicked-back updo perfectly complimented the gown.
With ultra-thin straps, triangle top and cut-out detailing, Taylor Hill’s Etro gown wouldn’t go amiss at an event in the early 2000’s. Like other dresses by the fashion house shown this week, Hill’s gown presented the famous floral Paisley print in all its glory; only with crystal embroidery for added luxury. Along with a matching face mask, an indulgent statement necklace and earrings by Chopard were the chosen accessories.
Tulle had a big moment last year with Kendall Jenner’s bright pink number at Cannes Film Festival and Giulia De Lellis’ dramatic gown looks set to follow. Designed by Belfiori Couture, the aptly named ‘Lilac Cloud Dress’ is a vision of romance with a feminine off-the-shoulder cut and tiered train. Despite its volume, the gown was hand-stitched by Belfiori’s designer in just 48 hours. Completing the look was a diamond waterfall necklace by Salvini Gioielli and tousled high bun.
Norwegian model Frida Aasen swapped her Nordic roots for the Mediterranean with this gorgeous chiffon gown. Designed by Alberta Ferretti, the soft flowing dress is fit for a Grecian goddess. Whilst the main body of the dress is minimalist, draping diamanté embellishments add drama to the shoulders and back. Complementing the deep V-neck, a layered crystal chain necklace by Crivelli Gioielli completes the look.
In addition to the metallic gown worn by Elodie, Versace continued to showcase their unrivalled style with this stunning gold number. Worn by actress Maya Hawke at the premiere of her latest film ‘Mainstream’, the shimmering mermaid gown was a favourite of the night. Layered over nude silk was a subtle crystal mesh which flowed into a skirt, embroidered with teardrop Swarovski crystals and applique. The 22-year-old’s structured haircut channelled the one her mother styled during her iconic role as Mia in the cult-classic movie, Pulp Fiction.
Designer Georges Hobeika, whose haute couture creations captured attention at the Met Gala and this year’s Oscars, once again showed why his designs are a red-carpet favourite. The stunning black dress made Lebanese TV presenter, Raya Abirached, the picture of elegance. A sheer bodice embellished with black sequins, flowed into a semi-sheer, full-length skirt with feathered appliqué. The gown exuded old Hollywood glamour. A flattering square neck cut was complimented by a statement YEPREM necklace. In keeping with its timeless elegance, the look was styled with Christian Louboutin heels, a coat of red lipstick and glamorous Hollywood waves.
Cecilia Rodriguez’s silver gown by Maria Lucia Hohan was a metallic marvel. A classic-shaped bodice with cut-out detailing flowed into a striking pleated maxi skirt. When left to fall naturally, the dress held a sleek silhouette with a high-leg split; but, once fanned, the luxe chiffon exploded into a mesmerising ‘butterfly’ effect. The shoes were kept simple with nude Casadei heels but the drama was continued with statement drop earrings by Messika.
In complete contrast to their dramatic tulle dress seen earlier, Belfiori Couture demonstrated their versatility with this sleek silk gown. The effortlessly stylish dress, worn by Giulia Valentina, was the epitome of elegance. A structured off-the-shoulder neckline radiated powerful femininity which was complimented by an extreme high-leg split. A tasteful addition of sparkle was provided by the collar-style necklace by Pasquale Bruni and silver Rene Caovilla heels in their most popular style, ‘Cleo’.
Cate Blanchett showed her authority as this year’s Jury President with a series of outfits that have embodied ‘power dressing’. As a strong believer of sustainability, most of the outfits worn by the actress this week have been reworked from previous events. Our favourite is this Alexander McQueen top. Blanchett was first seen wearing the asymmetrical number at BAFTA 2016 with a black feathered skirt. This year, the stunning hand-embroidered, floral top has been paired with a black wool silk tuxedo jacket and trousers; making it one of our most favourite looks.
By Holly Johnson
