George and Amal Clooney led red carpet arrivals as the 83rd Venice Film Festival officially opened on Wednesday, September 2 at the Lido.
The Oscar winning actor was at the festival to receive the Honorary Golden Lion for his lifetime contribution to cinema.
He wore an elegant Giorgio Armani tuxedo. Amal Clooney, a human rights lawyer, wore a custom black silk taffeta Tom Ford dress by Haider Ackermann.
The gown featured a structured section described as a wasp nest, asymmetric sharp pleats, georgette transparencies on the sides and a leather detail on the neckline.
She paired the dress with black pumps, a matching patent leather clutch and Cartier jewelry. Greek hair stylist Dimitris Giannetos prepared her hair.
The festival runs until September 12 and features a schedule of much discussed releases and premieres. W magazine reported that Hollywood stars flooded the historic canals from the first day.
Opening ceremony arrivals
Actor Laura Dern presented George Clooney with his award. She arrived by boat wearing Alaïa, before appearing on the red carpet in a pink satin Prada design, black low heeled shoes and Cartier jewelry.
American director and actor Maggie Gyllenhaal, who serves as the jury president for the festival, opened the event in a black The Row suit. She was later photographed on the red carpet wearing a Celine creation and impressive jewelry.
British actor Claire Foy attended the opening night premiere of the film Ink. She wore a bright red Bottega Veneta outfit with leather opera gloves and Swarovski jewelry.
Actor Zazie Beetz also attended the Ink screening, making an impressive appearance in a strapless Giorgio Armani dress with delicate embroidery.
Model Kendall Jenner was seen landing at the airport wearing Chanel.
Red carpet fashion
Actor Jonathan Bailey posed for photographers wearing a Giorgio Armani tuxedo.
British star Nicholas Galitzine wore an Emporio Armani ensemble without a jacket, choosing a shirt featuring a decorative collar fastening.
Canadian actor Nina Dobrev wore a straight cut, intricately embroidered black Armani Privé gown with green chiffon details.
