Kate Moss: The Enduring Influence of a ’90s Icon at Cannes and Beyond

The name Kate Moss instantly conjures visions of effortless style, groundbreaking runway appearances, and a global fashion legacy. From her early days redefining '90s beauty standards to her continuing influence today, Moss remains an inspiration for both established designers and emerging talents alike. Her mark on high fashion endures, as seen at the glitzy Cannes Film Festival and beyond.

Kate Moss’s Legacy: A Runway Revolution

Kate Moss changed fashion’s direction with her unique look and fearless runway presence. Her collaborations with renowned designers, including Vivienne Westwood, helped shape the aesthetic of the 1990s. Moss’s bold appearances, like her memorable finale in Westwood’s 1994 "Cafe Society" show, where she famously strode the runway with a Magnum ice cream bar, set new standards for confidence and authenticity in fashion.

Decades later, her impact is unmistakable. The ‘Moss effect’ continues to captivate audiences and influence new generations, proving that her place in fashion history is permanent.

Cannes: A Stage for Kate Moss-Inspired Moments

Every year, the Cannes Film Festival serves as a global showcase for red-carpet glamour and sartorial innovation. In 2025, the festival saw a striking homage to Kate Moss’s famed runway moment. Global pop star Charli XCX made headlines by channeling the legendary model at the Magnum beach party, embracing Moss’s daring style with a vintage Vivienne Westwood corset and mini-skirt. However, it was the iconic Magnum ice cream bar—a nod to Moss's unforgettable runway stunt—that captured everyone's attention.

According to W Magazine, Charli’s look directly referenced Moss’s 1994 runway finale: "While Moss went topless during the show, she wore a teensy skirt in the same pattern as Charli’s corset top and also chomped on a frozen chocolate desert, specifically from Magnum, as she walked." This tribute underscores how Moss's creativity and attitude remain benchmarks for contemporary style icons. To see other stunning fashion moments from the festival, check out Hello Magazine's Cannes best photos.

The Ongoing Appeal of Kate Moss

Moss’s ability to redefine beauty and push boundaries has solidified her status as a muse for both the fashion industry and pop culture. Her influence is not limited to runway shows; television, film, and everyday street style all reflect echoes of her ground-breaking work. Fashion insiders and celebrities alike continue to reference her classic moments, often bringing vintage Moss-inspired pieces back into the mainstream spotlight.

Notably, as highlighted by the Hollywood Reporter, the presence of stars like Charli XCX at Cannes, channelling Moss’s fearless energy and sense of fun, reminds us just how far-reaching her legacy is. Both new and established celebrities look to her for inspiration, ensuring her unique style remains part of fashion’s evolving conversation.

Summing Up: Why Kate Moss Still Matters

Kate Moss is far more than a supermodel—she represents fearless self-expression, innovation, and an ageless approach to style. Her runway moments, especially her memorable appearances involving statement-making accessories like the Magnum ice cream bar, continue to ignite imaginations and set trends. At events like the Cannes Film Festival, Moss’s influence remains visible and inspiring. For anyone passionate about fashion and pop culture, Moss is proof that true style icons never fade.