When Julia Roberts Walked Bare Foot On Cannes 2016 Red Carpet: Know Reason Behind This Rebellious Act

Julia Roberts turned heads at the Cannes Film Festival-but not just because of her dazzling smile or impeccable fashion sense. This time, it was her feet, or rather the lack of footwear on them, that stirred conversation around the world.

As the Hollywood icon glided across the iconic red carpet in a stunning black Armani Privé gown and a dazzling Chopard diamond necklace, all seemed elegant and expected-until she lifted her dress to ascend the stairs. In that moment, the world saw it: Julia Roberts was barefoot.

Though she initially arrived in heels, Roberts had quietly slipped them off before her grand entrance. Her decision to walk barefoot was subtle but deliberate-a powerful stand against outdated and unspoken fashion rules enforced at Cannes, particularly those directed at women.

The Unwritten rulebook of heels

Cannes has long held an unspoken dress code requiring women to wear high heels on the red carpet. This came under fire in 2015 when several women were reportedly denied entry to film screenings for wearing flat shoes, including ankle boots and even stylish platform sandals. The incident, dubbed #HeelGate and #ShoeGate, sparked global criticism and highlighted the festival’s quietly discriminatory practices.

Security guards were said to enforce these fashion standards, despite the absence of any official documentation mandating such footwear. Roberts’ barefoot protest wasn’t just a personal choice-it was a nod to the controversy that had left a sour taste years before.

A statement beyond style

Roberts, 48 at the time, was attending the premiere of Money Monster, a film she starred in alongside George Clooney. The two were seen sharing a laugh on the red carpet, with Roberts reportedly recounting her footwear stunt to Clooney as they posed for photographers. Also present was Clooney’s wife, international human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, making her own Cannes debut.

The moment may have lasted only seconds, but its significance was lasting. Fans across social media praised Roberts for her quiet defiance, with many calling it one of the most impactful celebrity protests the festival has seen.

Julia’s history of feminist acts

This isn’t the first time Julia Roberts has used the red carpet as a platform for protest. Back in 1999, she made headlines for revealing unshaven armpits at the Notting Hill premiere-a gesture many interpreted as a stand against beauty standards imposed on women.

She’s also known for embracing comfort and authenticity, even walking barefoot at awards ceremonies and her own wedding. These moments, whether intentional or not, have contributed to her image as a woman unafraid to challenge norms- especially those tied to gender and appearance.