(Living)

Here’s What The Cannes Film Festival Is Really Like

If your feeds have been inundated with celebrities strutting the red carpet, lounging on yachts and air-kissing industry insiders, you’re already aware the Cannes Film Festival has been under way for over a week. So what, exactly, is it like to mingle with the rich and famous on the Côte d’Azur? Where does one stay, eat, party? We tapped Erica Pelosini, freelance art director and contributor to Vogue and L’Officiel magazines, to show us the ropes.

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"Taking in the view from Hotel du Cap wearing Rachel Zoe Collection and Gucci shortly after arriving."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"There are dozens of stunning places to stay in Cannes—yachts or otherwise—but I love the historic Hotel Du Cap. It plays host to the amfAR benefit, has stunning grounds and overlooks the sea."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"It's impossible to bring enough gowns for Cannes, which is why there are fitting suites held by PR companies like Karla Otto, who loans stunning dresses to attendees."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"Does ogling fabulous jewelry ever get old? These stunners were at the Bulgari suite."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"More Bulgari gems!"

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"An evening of events calls for serious sequins. I'm opting for this Cavalli gown for tonight's festivities."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"When you're not enjoying the outdoors or a screening, there are plenty of epic parties to attend. This was the scene at Chopard's Space Party hosted by Rihanna."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"The weather is always so gorgeous and the views are breathtaking, so I try to eat every meal outside. This is breakfast at the hotel."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"Even when traveling I try to stay active. Hitting a few tennis balls is always a good time, plus my dog, Cashmere, gets to play ball boy!"

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"Hopping a helicopter to lunch—here's a view of all the yachts in town for the event!"

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"The pictures make the carpet look glamorous, but it's actually incredibly intimidating. Here you can see the pack of photographers all shouting for celebrities to pose for them. There are literally photo calls like this everywhere."

Courtesy of Erica Pelosini

"Naomi Campbell's Fashion for Relief charity event was an epic evening, featuring a show with the likes of Heidi Klum and Kendall Jenner. Here I am wearing Zuhair Murad with Peter Dundas and Evangelo Bousis. It was such a fun night! Follow me on Instagram to see more of my adventures."