The Venetian Lido has once again awakened to its signature, intoxicating blend of cinematic brilliance and sartorial perfection. As the 83rd Venice Film Festival officially opens its doors, the iconic lagoon becomes a floating runway, drawing the world’s gaze to a celebration of both silver-screen storytelling and peak red carpet opulence. This year, the opening festivities were defined by a seamless marriage of heritage houses and breathtaking haute joaillerie, proving that the magic of Venice is alive and well.
Setting an incredibly high standard for the 2026 edition was director and Jury President Maggie Gyllenhaal. Stepping onto the opening red carpet on September 2nd, Gyllenhaal exuded a magnetic, commanding elegance. Her presence was immediately elevated by her choice of accessories: a breathtaking Bvlgari Serpenti High Jewelry necklace in 18-karat rose gold. She completed the masterful parure with a two-coil Serpenti Viper ring boasting full diamond pavé, and matching Serpenti Viper earrings shimmering with delicate demi-pavé diamond work.
BVLGARI Serpenti Viper ring in rose gold and diamonds. Serpenti High Jewelry necklace in 18kt rose gold featuring onyx elements, two pear-shaped diamonds, and pavé-set diamonds. Serpenti Viper earrings in rose gold and diamonds.
Naturally, the Italian contingent delivered some of the most unforgettable fashion moments of the evening. Actress Barbara Ronchi graced the opening red carpet radiating pure, modern sophistication. She opted for a stunning total look by Louis Vuitton, perfectly capturing the maison’s architectural yet fluid aesthetic and cementing her status as a contemporary screen muse.
Joining her in celebrating Italy’s profound connection to luxury was supermodel and Bvlgari brand ambassador Bianca Balti. A true vision of Mediterranean glamour, Balti’s ensemble served as the ultimate canvas for extraordinary master stones. She chose High Jewelry creations in 18-karat rose gold that masterfully juxtaposed deep, striking onyx with vivid, cushion-cut pink tourmalines, all framed by a dazzling diamond pavé that caught the flash of every camera on the Lido.
High Jewelry necklace in 18kt rose gold featuring onyx elements, cushion-cut tanzanites, cushion-cut pink tourmalines, and diamond pavé. High Jewelry earrings in 18kt rose gold with onyx, cushion-cut pink tourmalines, and pavé-set diamonds.
The glamour, of course, extended well beyond the main premiere steps, bleeding into the exclusive events dotted around the city. Merging the worlds of dynamic travel and luxury, Giulia Maenza stepped out in a chic Louis Vuitton total look to celebrate the beginning of the Louis Vuitton Dolomites Classic Run 2026 right here in Venice, balancing directional tailoring with effortless cool.
Giulia Maenza wears La Beauté Louis Vuitton, with LV Ombres in the shade 724 Monogram Dune paired with LV Rouge in the shade 724 Monogram Dune
Meanwhile, Swiss actress Luna Wedler brought a touch of dark romanticism and tactile beauty to the festival lineup. Turning away from traditional sequins, she opted for a gorgeous ankle-length bustier dress rendered in a moody grey floral jacquard. The look was anchored simply yet highly effectively by a pair of classic black pumps, allowing the rich texture of the dress to take center stage. Adding a dose of refined grooming to the bustling Venetian atmosphere, British star Nicholas Galitzine made his mark representing Armani Beauty, ensuring the festival remained flawlessly polished from every angle.
Luna Wedler wears custom Louis Vuitton to the “La Ragazza Con La Leica” Screening at the 83rd Venice Film Festival
Nicholas Galitzine, Global Fragrance Ambassador Emporio Armani
Chilean actress Mariana Di Girolamo brought a sharp, graphic modernity to the Lido, stepping away from traditional gowns. She opted for a full CHANEL look from the Cruise 2027 collection, featuring a structured black jacket in raw silk and viscose layered over a black and ecru shantung silk top, and a black and white silk crêpe skirt. Di Girolamo polished the vision with matching CHANEL accessories, eyewear, and shoes, completed by flawless CHANEL Makeup.
Mariana Di Girolamo attends the “Wild Horse Nine” Photocall during the 83rd Venice International Film Festival at Palazzo del Casino on September 03, 2026 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Carlo Paloni/Getty Images)
Mariacarla BOSCONO, wore a dress in black and white newspaper print knotted tweed, embellisged with a camelia in jacquard and feathers, look 71, from the CHANEL Cruise 2027 collection. CHANEL shoes. CHANEL Makeup
