A fashion lesson from a 73-year-old French celebrity: She follows her own style

Isabelle Huppert, the French actress celebrated for her commanding presence on screen, made a striking appearance at the 79th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland on August 14. Dressed in a bold yet refined ensemble from Italian fashion house Brunello Cucinelli, she once again demonstrated that true style knows no age limits. The 73-year-old star opted for a relaxed yet sophisticated look that defied conventional fashion norms, reinforcing her reputation as a woman who wears clothes not to appear younger, but simply to feel confident and authentic. Huppert arrived at the festival’s photocall for director Marc Fitoussia's film Ni vue, ni connue, which stars her alongside Sandrine Kiberlain. In the film, she plays Corinne Maclou, a film extra desperate to secure a more substantial role. Before the film’s official premiere, however, Huppert captured attention with her choice of attire. She selected a Brunello Cucinelli outfit that blended luxury with understated elegance. Instead of a traditional dress, she wore wide black trousers paired with a tailored jacket crafted from subtly shimmering fabric. Beneath this, she layered a white shirt with thin stripes, tucked neatly into the pants and secured with a black leather belt. The silhouette was particularly noteworthy, wide-leg trousers, oversized jacket, and a classic men’s-style shirt created a laid-back, almost androgynous aesthetic that remained effortlessly stylish without ever appearing overly formal. This look perfectly encapsulated Huppert’s philosophy toward fashion: one that prioritizes personal expression over adherence to societal expectations. At 73, Huppert has long been a champion of self-assured dressing. She has consistently chosen pieces that challenge age-related stereotypes, embracing high platforms, daring designs, vibrant colors, and unexpected silhouettes with equal confidence as she does haute couture gowns. Her latest choice at the Locarno Film Festival exemplifies this ethos. Rather than opt for traditional loafers or polished office shoes, she chose sandals with an extremely high platform in a neutral tone. This subtle detail softened the otherwise professional nature of her outfit, giving it a touch of retro charm and playful flair. Minimalist jewelry completed the look, while her hair was styled in soft waves, avoiding excessive styling. The result was an effortless yet meticulously curated ensemble that exuded both grace and individuality. Huppert’s appearance underscored the idea that fashion should serve the wearer, not dictate their image. Her choice of Brunello Cucinelli further highlighted this principle, as the brand is known for its discreet luxury and commitment to timeless design. As the festival continues, Huppert’s presence will likely remain a topic of admiration among attendees and critics alike. Her ability to blend comfort with sophistication, tradition with innovation, and restraint with audacity sets a powerful example for women of all ages. With her upcoming film premieres and continued work in cinema, Huppert’s influence extends far beyond the red carpet, into the very essence of how women engage with style and identity.