Elle Fanning has once again shown why she is one of Cannes’ most versatile style icons — this time with a subtle nod to the creative energy buzzing around summer 2025, inspired by Charli XCX’s recent cultural shout-out. The actress’s choices at the festival perfectly blended meta storytelling and high fashion, making her one of the most talked-about stars on the Croisette.
Charli XCX and the rise of “Joachim Trier summer”
A few weeks ago at Coachella, pop star Charli XCX announced that a “Joachim Trier summer” was officially upon us, signaling a season packed with new releases from some of the most exciting artists and filmmakers. Charli’s message wasn’t just about music; she hyped the arrival of new albums from Lorde and HAIM, as well as the newest films by David Cronenberg and Norwegian director Joachim Trier.
What might have seemed like an insider’s cultural moment soon became visible on the red carpet thanks to Elle Fanning. During a photocall for Trier’s latest film Sentimental Value (original title Affeksjonsverdi), Fanning sported a T-shirt emblazoned with the very phrase “Joachim Trier Summer.” This unexpected fashion choice perfectly blended the festival’s high-glamour expectations with a cheeky nod to the season’s artistic zeitgeist.
A Cannes red carpet with layered meaning
Elle Fanning’s role in Sentimental Value adds an intriguing meta layer to her Cannes appearances this year. She plays a Hollywood actress arriving in Norway to star in a film directed by Gustav, a filmmaker attempting to reconnect with his family after personal losses. Similarly, Fanning herself traveled to Norway to shoot the film, creating an art-imitating-life dynamic that Cannes audiences can appreciate.
For the Sentimental Value red carpet premiere on May 21, Fanning chose a custom-made floral Armani Privé gown. The design echoed her signature princess-like aesthetic with delicate details and a subtle small train — carefully crafted to respect Cannes’ strict dress code forbidding overly cumbersome trains that block red carpet passage. The gown was elegant yet approachable, highlighting her growing maturity as a style muse while retaining the youthful charm she’s known for.
Style evolution: From trench coats to full glamour
Elle’s Cannes journey also showcased her fashion versatility beyond the gowns. Earlier in the day, she made a cool and casual statement arriving in a trench coat paired with sunglasses. Later, she switched into a pink dress from Chanel’s latest Resort collection, fresh off the runway at Lake Como just days before. By afternoon, Fanning embraced a total Coach look, choosing a blue dress coordinated perfectly with ballet flats and a matching handbag — a practical yet chic combination that balanced comfort with Cannes’ usual glitz.
Her stylist, Samantha McMillen, who has collaborated with Fanning for over a decade, received well-deserved praise from fans on social media. One admirer noted, “No one will ever love you as much as Elle Fanning’s stylist loves Elle Fanning,” highlighting the carefully curated wardrobe moments that make Fanning’s festival appearances so memorable.
The film’s themes resonate with family and reconciliation
Sentimental Value explores profound themes of family bonds, memory, and the unifying power of art. The story revolves around Nora (played by Renate Reinsve), a successful actor who is reluctant to reconnect with her filmmaker father Gustav (Stellan Skarsgård) after the death of their mother. Gustav then offers the lead role in his new film to Rachel Kemp, the Hollywood star portrayed by Elle Fanning.
As filming progresses in Norway, Gustav attempts to mend his fractured relationships with his daughters, navigating the emotional complexities of family tensions and generational divides. The film’s title, Sentimental Value, reflects not only nostalgic memories but also the painful yet healing aspects of familial love — questioning how far people will go to confront old wounds in search of reconciliation.
A fashion and film festival to remember
Elle Fanning’s Cannes 2025 appearances perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the festival: a blend of fashion innovation, cinematic storytelling, and cultural moments that spark conversations beyond the red carpet. From her cheeky nod to Charli XCX’s “Joachim Trier summer” to her poised role in a film exploring family ties, Fanning remains a star to watch.
Whether draped in custom gowns or styled in casual trench coats, Elle continues to define what it means to be a modern actress and fashion icon — one who can embrace whimsy, depth, and unexpected inspiration all at once.
