Madisin Rian in Armani

This dress pinches a teeny bit on her, but dang: She is GORGEOUS, and so is it. The way the floral fabric cuts into the dress a bit on the bodice and reappears on the skirt is unexpected and elegant. She glows.

The back is also lovely.

I did warn you that I'm into this. I still wish it fit her slightly better up top, but honestly, probably worth it.

Toni Garrn in Alberta Ferretti

This bodice is a bit pinchy TOO. Were Italian tailors still on their summer breaks?

'Comandante' premiere and Opening Ceremony, 80th Venice International Film Festival, Italy - 30 Aug 2023

I apologize, but I don't have a name on these feet. Unusual heels always fascinate me -- I keep assuming they must be so strange to walk in, but maybe it's just like anything else and if you're not LOOKING at it you don't notice anything different.

I DO have a name on these feet, with the heels that look like the top of a large silver wine-saver cork.

Charlotte Rampling

They belong to Charlotte Rampling, and she came ON THEME. I am dying to know if the dress designer recommended a necklace to fit the cutout, or if she/her stylist frantically sourced one.

with Liliana Cavani

Liliana is an Italian director and writer who at 90, became the film festival's first woman to receive a career achievement award -- something she called out as unacceptable when she accepted it. (Charlotte presented it to her; they worked together in the 70s on "The Night Porter"). She sounds awesome and I love that at 90 she was like, "FORGET IT. Give me my comfy shoes."

Jane Campion

Jane went with DESIGNER comfy shoes.

Damien Chazelle and Olivia Hamilton

Damian is on the jury, as is Campion. He looks... fine! He wore a pro-WGA shirt at his press conference, which was a great move.

Alice Diop

Alice is leading the jury for the Debut Film category. She looks super in this, but I do find myself wishing for a stronger cuff.

Elisa Visari in Armani

Armani is coming strong at this one.

Gulia Bevilacqua

In some lights, there are nipples present.

Marta Sierra in Emporio Armani

This is so relaxingly pretty.

Mariacarla Boscono

She is the alt-universe Anya Taylor-Joy.

Jourdan Riane

This seems too complicated, somehow.

Caterina Murino

This is perfect. It's 2014 Armani, which Allison Williams wore to the Golden Globes in 2015. I love the addition of the necklace, and above all else am thrilled that a dress having been worn to a high-profile event doesn't disqualify it from seeing the light of day again.

Paola Turani

Very sleek.

Millane Friesen

I hope she got married on the red carpet.

The Venice Opening Ceremony Delivered Plenty of Glam

If not as many stars.