The prestigious Cannes Film Festival officially kicked off its 2025 event, welcoming international stars to its red carpet. However, a recent update to the dress code reportedly forced Chinese actress Zhao Ying Zi (赵樱子) off the red carpet.
The actress attended the acclaimed event and walked the red carpet on Tuesday morning (Malaysia time) alongside stars like Chinese actress Wan Qianhui (王阡惠) and American model Bella Hadid. Since the film festival is known for its elaborate fashion, it’s no surprise that Zhao Ying Zi had to put on her best outfit for the red carpet. The 34-year-old showed up at the Cannes red carpet dressed in a silver dress with a crystal bodice.
However, the dress is also notable for its slightly see-through element at the torso. While this wouldn’t have been an issue at Cannes previously, the film festival had recently updated its dress code, banning nudity on the red carpet. This new rule also led netizens to speculate that Zhao Ying Zi was chased off the red carpet after a video of staff escorting her away went viral on Chinese social media.
In the video, a female staff member walked to the actress on the red carpet and gestured for her to leave. After a brief conversation, Zhao Ying Zi walked away with the staff, looking slightly dejected. Some netizens suspected that the “You Are My Glory” star was asked to leave as her dress violated the new dress code. However, others suspected it was because the star was taking too long on the red carpet.
Zhao Ying Zi didn’t comment on the incident, but she previously sparked criticism over her Cannes appearance. Hours before walking the red carpet, the star claimed to have ruined her first outfit choice, a red jumpsuit, after spilling coffee on the garment. She even took to Weibo to share her dilemma, asking the public for tips on removing the stain. However, netizens mocked her, saying she’s “doing too much” to go viral.
Despite the mixed reactions to Zhao Ying Zi’s Cannes appearance, the actress did receive praise for her silver dress. While we won’t know if she was reprimanded for the outfit, there’s no denying she dressed her best for the event. What are your thoughts on this?
Watch the incident between Zhao Ying Zi and the staff below:
Sources: 163.com, Oriental Daily, Weibo (1)(2)
