Dua Lipa is rewriting the rules of spring fashion, and one of her latest statements is that no color combination is off-limits. The “Houdini” singer landed in France this afternoon for the 79th annual Cannes Film Festival, making an eye-popping entrance in a purple-and-red ensemble styled by Lorenzo Posocco.
For one of the most high-profile events of the year, Lipa didn’t need a red carpet to kick off her high-fashion streak. Unlike most celebrities, she is not at the mercy of public drops from luxury brands. Instead, she opted for a fresh-off-the-runway look pulled straight from the Ferragamo Fall/Winter 2026 ready-to-wear collection by Maximilian Davis.
Her grape-colored, sheer set consisted of an asymmetrical long-sleeve top that nearly hung off one shoulder, paired with a matching midi skirt with a slanted waistline. Instead of traditional buttons or zippers, these separates were laced up in the front with thick zig-zagging cords, adding a romantic touch to the otherwise unadorned garments. Because the pieces were see-through, Lipa layered matching lingerie underneath, ensuring modesty without sacrificing the daring transparency that defines contemporary fashion.
While stepping out in one of the hottest colors of the year might have been statement enough, Lipa and her stylist took it further by pairing the purple set with a couple of tomato-tinted accessories, also from Ferragamo. Notably, the “grape and tomato” combination is one of the many unusual color pairings that appeared on runways last summer. This trend, inspired by the food world, has gained traction among fashion-forward celebrities and editors. The pairing of deep purple with vibrant red creates a striking contrast that is both playful and sophisticated.
Lipa incorporated her reds by slipping into the house’s Itaca patent-leather mules, defined by their pointy toes and curvy, sculptural heels. She also slung one of the Hug bags on her shoulder, a design that has become a signature of the Ferragamo revival under Davis. For finishing touches, the Bulgari ambassador added Serpenti Viper rings and a Viper bracelet, merging Italian luxury jewelry with her avant-garde outfit.
Background on Dua Lipa and Her Fashion Evolution
Dua Lipa, born in London in 1995, rose to global fame with hits like “New Rules,” “Don’t Start Now,” and “Levitating.” Her music often blends pop, dance, and R&B, earning her multiple Grammy Awards. Beyond music, Lipa has become a major fashion icon, known for taking risks on red carpets and at major events. Her style has evolved from early streetwear influences to high-fashion collaborations with brands like Versace, Prada, and now Ferragamo. She has also launched her own fashion line, “Dua Lipa x Versace,” and frequently appears in Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and other leading publications.
At Cannes, Lipa’s choices are closely watched. In past years, she has worn custom Atelier Versace, vintage Chanel, and dramatic gowns that combine modernity with timeless elegance. Her collaboration with stylist Lorenzo Posocco, who has worked with her for several years, has solidified her reputation as a risk-taker who can pull off unconventional looks.
The Significance of the Grape and Tomato Trend
The “grape and tomato” combination is not merely a random choice; it reflects a broader movement in fashion toward food-inspired color palettes. Last summer, runways in Milan, Paris, and New York showcased shades of red, purple, burgundy, and cordovan, often paired together. This trend is partly a reaction to the minimalist beige and gray that dominated recent seasons, bringing a sense of vibrancy and optimism. Designers like Maximilian Davis, who took the helm at Ferragamo in 2022, have embraced bold color blocking to rejuvenate the brand’s image. The Fall/Winter 2026 collection, from which Lipa’s outfit comes, emphasizes structure and sensuality through sheer fabrics, lace-up details, and dramatic silhouettes.
Color psychology suggests that purple symbolizes luxury, creativity, and mystery, while red evokes passion, energy, and confidence. By combining them, Lipa communicates both sophistication and audacity. The see-through elements add a layer of intimacy, inviting viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship and layering.
Cannes Film Festival: A Stage for Fashion
The Cannes Film Festival, established in 1946, is one of the most prestigious events in the film industry, but it has also become a major platform for fashion. Celebrities and designers use the red carpet to debut exclusive looks, often custom-made. The festival’s dress code has evolved over the decades, from formal tuxedos and ball gowns to more experimental designs. In recent years, sustainability and diversity have become key themes, with many stars choosing vintage or upcycled garments.
Lipa’s decision to wear a full look from the Ferragamo Fall/Winter 2026 collection aligns with a trend of “instant archive” dressing—wearing runway pieces immediately after they are revealed, rather than waiting for the next season. This approach creates buzz for both the designer and the wearer, and reinforces Cannes as a place where fashion history is made.
Maximilian Davis and Ferragamo’s Renaissance
Maximilian Davis, a British-born designer of Trinidadian descent, took over as creative director of Ferragamo in March 2022. He quickly revitalized the brand with a focus on streamlined tailoring, sheer fabrics, and a color palette inspired by his heritage and references to Hollywood glamour. His debut collection for Fall 2023 was praised for its clean lines and modern sensuality. The Fall/Winter 2026 collection continues this direction with pieces that celebrate the female form while maintaining a sense of strength. The lace-up details on Lipa’s top and skirt, for example, recall corsetry but rendered in a lighter, more contemporary way.
Davis has also emphasized craftsmanship. Ferragamo is known for its leather goods and shoes, and the Itaca mules and Hug bag Lipa wore are examples of the house’s commitment to quality and innovative design. The Hug bag, introduced in Spring 2024, has become a cult favorite, often spotted on influencers and celebrities.
Detailed Analysis of the Outfit
Let’s break down the components of Lipa’s airport-to-Cannes look. The top is an asymmetrical long-sleeve top with a single shoulder coverage, leaving the other shoulder exposed. The neckline is high on one side and dips low on the other, creating an unbalanced but appealing geometry. The sheer fabric is a deep purple, almost plum, with a matte finish that contrasts with the glossy patent-leather accessories. The lacing runs down the front, zig-zagging from neckline to hem, allowing the garment to be adjusted for fit and adding textural interest.
The skirt is midi-length with a slanted waistline that mirrors the asymmetry of the top. The hem falls just above the ankles, and the lacing continues down the front of the skirt, tying at the hip. Underneath, Lipa wears a matching purple bra and high-waisted briefs, which are visible through the sheer layers but cleverly positioned to avoid full transparency. This layered approach is typical of modern sheer fashion, where the undergarments become part of the aesthetic rather than something to hide.
The tomato-red accessories provide a pop of warmth against the cool purple: the Itaca mules have a pointed toe and a sculptural heel that curves like a wave, adding height and elegance. The Hug bag is structured but soft, with a curved top handle that hugs the body. Lipa’s jewelry, from Bulgari’s Serpenti collection, features snake motifs in yellow gold with diamonds, adding a touch of luxury and heritage.
Impact and Reception
Upon her arrival, Lipa was photographed by Getty Images and other media outlets. The imagery rapidly spread across social media, with fans and fashion commentators praising her bold choice. Many noted that she successfully bridged the gap between street style and red carpet, as the outfit could be equally at home at a festival premiere or a stylish dinner. The grape-and-tomato combination was highlighted as a “must-try” trend for the spring and summer seasons.
This look also reinforces Lipa’s status as a fashion leader. She frequently appears on best-dressed lists and has been named a brand ambassador for several houses. Her ability to influence trends is supported by her massive social media following—over 88 million on Instagram alone. When she wears a particular color or silhouette, it often sees a surge in search and sales.
As the Cannes Film Festival continues, all eyes will be on what Lipa wears next. But this first appearance has already set a high bar, proving that even an airport arrival can become a memorable fashion moment.
Source: MSN News