Bianca Balti’s Red Heels & Dolce & Gabbana Baroque Look Stole Cannes 2013—Off the Red Carpet

Amid the celebrity-packed schedule of the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, some of the most memorable fashion moments unfolded away from the red carpet.

One such standout came on May 21, 2013, in Cannes, France, when Italian model Bianca Balti attended the de Grisogono anniversary celebration in a look defined by bold accessorizing and unapologetic excess.

A close-up captures Bianca Balti’s jewel-laden choker and cascading multicolored earrings, with the gemstone-encrusted bodice creating a richly textured contrast against the minimalist de Grisogono backdrop

A Masterclass in Maximalism: Layered Embellishment and Statement Heels

Layered over a vivid red mini dress, Balti’s richly embellished kimono—adorned with colorful stones and ornate detailing—transformed her outfit into a statement piece in its own right.

The result was a striking study in maximalist styling, proving how a single dramatic layer can elevate even the most embellished base look. Standing 5ft 7 ¾ (172.1 cm) tall and wearing a size 8, she completed her outfit with matching red peep-toe heels.

Although the ultra-short red mini dress was already densely embellished with crystals and beads, Bianca Balti leaned further into maximalism with carefully layered additions. A dramatic gemstone necklace, oversized drop earrings, and a richly decorated kimono transformed the look from eye-catching to unmistakably theatrical.

Bianca Balti in Cannes, enhancing her vibrant red dress with a lavish necklace, ornate earrings, and a richly decorated kimono, turning heads with her elaborate style

Inside Bianca Balti’s Sicilian Baroque Ensemble by Dolce & Gabbana

A custom creation by Dolce & Gabbana, the designers’ signature Sicilian Baroque influence was evident throughout—from the vibrant red, jewel-encrusted mini dress to the floor-length silk kimono, embroidered with ornate gold and floral motifs that echoed the brand’s opulent aesthetic of the era.

Rather than overwhelming the look, each element held its own. When considered individually, the kimono emerges as the most covetable piece—a wearable work of art whose painterly print and lavish embroidery invite close inspection. The effect is reminiscent of a canvas rich with color and texture, rewarding the eye the longer it is studied.

Balti completed the look with matching red lace peep-toe platform heels by Dolce & Gabbana and statement high-jewelry from de Grisogono, including ruby-and-diamond drop earrings that reinforced the saturated red palette. The result stood apart from the floor-length gowns typical of Cannes, embracing a playful, high-fashion party sensibility ideally suited to the Eden Roc setting.

Even more fascinating are the stones scattered all over the garment and how they blend with the print. Can you imagine how fabulous the kimono would look with a white tank and denim cutoffs?

Bianca Balti pairs a crystal-embellished red mini dress and richly decorated kimono with matching red peep-toe heels for de Grisogono’s 20th-anniversary celebration at the Eden Roc Hotel in Cannes on May 21, 2013 (Credit: Dave Bedrosian / Future Image / WENN)

Why Red Heels Remain a Fashion Power Move

Bianca Balti’s richly layered Cannes look underscores the enduring impact of statement footwear—especially when it comes in bold red. From vintage glamour to modern red-carpet drama, red heels continue to signal confidence, allure, and intention.

Below, explore how celebrities across eras have embraced the same powerful footwear choice.