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27 Pairs Of Shoes From Amazon Sure To Become Your Faves

27 Pairs Of Shoes From Amazon Sure To Become Your Faves

Buzz Feed08-05-2025

A pair of memory foam-lined quilted sneakers that are so comfy and come in so many colors, they may just become your immediate go-to pair of casual shoes. Get ready to feel like you're walking on clouds as you pick up your mood-setting iced coffee. You deserve it.
Head's up that some reviewers say these shoes run big, and recommend ordering a size down. Promising review: "HIGHLY RECOMMEND. I ordered my true size. I tried them for the first time after a long day of walking and shopping. Super light and comfortable!! I would normally want to be out of shoes after spending all day on my feet but I don't want to take these off. Will definitely be shopping the other colors they have to offer." —Gina PPrice: $28.44+ (available in sizes 6–11, including wide fits, and eight colors)
And — speaking of walking on clouds — a pair of cushioned slides that feel like little pillows of clouded comfort. And reviewers agree! They love just how comfortable these shoes are AND that that manage to keep feet cool and dry in summer. Walking on air? Don't mind if I do.
Promising review: "Love them! So comfortable! Really your feet will not sweat. I notoriously have sweaty feet and nothing but perfection here. I just moved so I'm walking a ton of laps in my new place. They are great! Easy to slide on. Walk the dog. No breaking in! They are better than my Crocs! 😜" —Laura GreenPrice: $23.98 (available in sizes 4–12.5 and 16 colors)
A pair of comfy espadrilles you can easily dress up or down — making that day-to-night transition worth the effort. Reviewers love how versatile and comfortable these shoes are, and you'll be surprised by just how many outfits suddenly become much more comfortable.
Promising review: "These were a perfect fit! They are so comfortable and match a lot of the clothes I own. The day after I received them, I wore them for a whole day. I helped set up a baby shower, loaded up gifts, cleaned up, and by the end of the day, my feet weren't tired." —WhitPrice: $25.49+ (available in sizes 5.5–12, including wide fits, and in 42 colors and style options)
Slip-on Converse for taking all of the effort out of re-lacing your shoes in the morning because you were too tired to untie them the night before. These shoes are everything you've loved about Chuck Taylors since you were in high school — but with no added effort.
Promising review: "If you're debating about whether to buy the Chuck Taylor lace-up version or this slip-on version, DEFINITELY go for the slip-on!!! I ordered both to compare and while they look very similar on, the slip-on was way WAY more comfortable. In particular, because the tongue of the shoe doesn't seem to be as long in the slip-on version, that means it won't rub into the top of your foot and create unsightly marks. Ick! Who wants that? Three cheers for the slip-on!" —Urban MomPrice: $55.95+ (available in sizes 5–11 and five colors)
A pair of memory foam-cushioned knit flats that turn every outfit into something cute and allow you to get as close to warm-weather slippers as you possibly can.
Promising review: "Love these shoes! I was looking for a flat that looks professional and is comfortable, and these are perfect. I'm a wedding planner and spend roughly 10–12 nonstop hours running around at events. I have been wearing them at work for the last three months and my feet have been comfortable and blister-free. Plus, they look cute with slacks, a dress, or skinny jeans on my days off! I just wish they had more colors available because I'd buy them all!" —Erin B.Price: $26.80+ (available in sizes 5–11, including wide fits, and five colors)
Block heel sandals to pair perfectly with your office attire, happy hour fit, or running to Target to grab that thing you saw last week jeans. They really are that unicorn of a shoe you've been looking for.
Promising review: "These are basically my everyday shoes. I wear them in the office and I wear them out and about. I went out with my friends one night and danced for six hours. My feet were sore by the end of the night but I was able to still walk without taking them off. They're comfortable and look nice. I get compliments on them all the time. Goes with almost all of my outfits." —QuyenPrice: $24.95+ (available in sizes 5–10 and in 11 colors)
A pair of 3.5-inch Toms block heels bringing the comfort of Toms you've always loved but with an elevated touch beyond the original canvas shoes. Plus, there's nothing quite like feeling like you're heading to the Mediterranean seaside, even if you're just heading into the office.
PS: The Toms one-for-one guarantee is still around — for every pair of shoes purchased, they'll donate a pair to a child in need. Nothing like looking cute, feeling comfortable, AND helping kids get shoes. Promising review: "WOW THESE shoes are SO comfy!!! They are really soft and flexible — reminds me of a dance shoe. I'm NOT a heel-wearing girl, but this heel is the perfect height. The footbed is cushy and the suede is really soft. I usually don't spend this much on a pair of shoes that I wouldn't wear on a daily basis, but I'm so glad I did! They are my go-to shoe with a crop pant or dress now..." —tara_fitandhappyPrice: $40.79+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in eight colors)
A pair of mules destined to make any fancy warm-weather event so much breezier and easier. Forget shoving your poor, exhausted feet into a pair of unyielding chambers and instead embrace the ease of slipping your feet in and out of shoes that look great with literally no effort required.
Promising review: "Great fit for flat feet. Very comfortable and nice material." —Y. DelpilarPrice: $39.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and 13 colors)
A pair of leather sandals with a contoured footbed that molds to your foot for ultimate comfort and arch support. You may have gotten away with flat-as-paper sandals when you were young, but it's definitely time for some arch support now.
Promising review: "I wore these all summer and they are SO comfortable it feels you're not wearing shoes. I've have Birkenstocks and I like these better. My feet are on the narrower side, so once I tightened the straps, they fit perfectly. Would definitely recommend!!" —Amazon CustomerPrice: $24.70+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 21 colors)
A laceless, breathable sock sneaker because laces are the worst and we all need a little more structure to our shoes these days. These sneakers are so versatile, well-made, and light you may just never want to wear a different shoe again.
Promising review: "These shoes are fantastic in every way! They look so awesome on, they are soo comfortable, great quality and you can't beat the price! One of the best buys I've ever made. They'll look amazing with anything..." —shaykPrice: $15.49+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 24 colors)
A pair of oh-so-classic Adidas slides that will quickly become your favorite pair of shoes for running out the door. From grabbing the mail to running to the convenience store for a treat to heading down to the pool, these shoes are comfy, sturdy, and stylish all in one.
Promising review: "I am impressed by the arch support! I thought these are just a flat slipper, but they actually fit my foot and are really comfortable." —YamoPrice: $27.99+ (available in sizes 5–14 and eight colors)
A pair of vegan leather sandals so multifunctional, we can definitely keep the phrase "orthotic insole" between us. No one will be the wiser.
Promising review: "These shoes are AMAZING! Wore them for the first time today to run errands. After 8+ hours of wearing them, my feet don't hurt at all! Great fit, love the cushion sole, and the braided front actually helps to keep the shoe on. Wide-foot friendly also." —Tiff P.Price: $29.99 (available in sizes 5–11 and seven colors)
A pair of Toms canvas flats because they've been around forever and haven't lost their luster. Toms canvas shoes are light, have just enough support, and go with almost any outfit.
Promising review: "These are my first purchase of Toms, and they are so comfy. It's like walking on a cloud of marshmallows. I will definitely buy more Toms. The shoe is also nice looking and the design lets my feet breathe." —MzDreadlockPrice: $24.95+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide fits, and 72 colors and styles)
A pair of Skechers knit slip-ons for those days you're on your feet all day. These shoes are non-slip, cooling, and lined with memory foam — making them the perfect vacation sight-seeing shoe.
Promising review: "I just returned from a 3-week trip where I primarily wore these shoes, and these are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn! The cushioning is fantastic. I was hesitant about buying shoes with a fabric top, but they held up through miles of walking without problems. I have flat feet and a swollen big toe joint, and they never hurt. They run true to size. I'm going to order another pair." —S. KaplanPrice: $32.45+ (available in sizes 5–11, including wide fits, and seven colors)
A pair of breathable, lightweight, and laceless white sneakers that will instantly turn a dress into an outfit you can actually walk in. The embroidered flowers give the shoes a *hint* of something extra, and the lack of laces is perfect for kicking them off at the end of a long day and falling onto the couch with a snack like you've always imagined you would.
Promising review: "I love these shoes! I have two pairs now — white and gray — and they are my go-to shoes. They look great in jeans, a sundress, and capris. Since they are low-cut, there is an impression of longer legs. My white pair I have washed several times and they look like new each time. They are affordable and really flattering." —Donna CreightonPrice: $25.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 21 colors)
A pair of pointed-toe leopard loafers because a touch of leopard print is always a good choice. These versatile loafers will help you express your feisty side without sacrificing comfort — these babies have memory foam and a heel pillow so you can release your inner RHONY all day every day.
Promising review: "These shoes are incredibly comfortable and required zero 'break-in' time. The first time I wear a new pair of flats, I always bring a pair of backup shoes because inevitably the new flats rub my feet somewhere and cause blisters because they need to be broken in. With this pair, I didn't use the backup pair I brought! I'll definitely be purchasing these in more colors." —RebeccaPrice: $22.80+ (available in sizes 5–15, including some wide fits, and 10 other colors)
Puma Carina sneakers — white sneakers that go with absolutely anything. There's no reason to sacrifice shoe structure for that easy, breezy, sporty look we all love.
Promising review: "These shoes are perfectly supportive. I have flat feet, with my ankles starting to roll to the inside. The support I get from these drastically reduces the amount of roll, making it so that my legs/feet look and function noticeably better! Will buy again. I did find that they fit snuggly, maybe that helps them feel so supportive?" —Pam ClarkPrice: $52.49+ (available in sizes 5.5–11)
Chunky block sandals so you can have a warm-weather going-out shoe that will actually allow you to stay out all night. Do not — I repeat DO NOT — be that person who is slinging heels over her shoulder and walking down a public street barefoot because your feet gave out — not that I know from personal experience... 🫠
Promising review: "I was nervous to buy these shoes since I have had a lot of experiences buying cute sandals that turn out to be really uncomfortable. These are super comfortable and easy to walk in, and I can wear them all day! I also got a ton of compliments on them!" —doodlePrice: $26.59+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 27 colors)
A pair of Dr. Scholl's slip-on sneakers that *finally* make orthopedic styles trendy and functional. Honestly, though, I own these, and they are the most comfortable and versatile sneakers I've ever had.
Allow me to climb onto the rooftop: GET THESE SHOES. I have been loyally wearing these for a few years now and will never get another pair of slip-ons. These babies have seen theme parks, pumpkin patches, long walks, and short errands and they carry me through all of them with effortless comfort. They are my favorite sneakers I have ever worn and if Dr. Scholl's ever stops making these I will probably just turn to dust and float away. Promising review: "I LOVE THESE! I got the black faux snakeskin ones. They fit perfectly for slip on AND they stay on. No breaking in these... so comfortable from the start. Comfort and style?! Yes! :)" —Jes Price: $35+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide fits, and 21 colors)
A pair of Croc ankle-strap wedges for those who are curious about what all of the cool kids are onto but aren't 100% ready to commit to that Croc lifestyle. I warn you, though, after wearing these, you may just embrace Croclife forever, and *psst* — that's also A-OK.
Promising review: "These shoes were a favorite over the summer. I ended up wearing them every day because they were so comfortable, and I loved how they looked with all my outfits and how the platform gave me a little extra height. I was able to put them in the sink and wash them so that they didn't become stinky and to keep them clean. They fit as expected and the look was better than expected. I received many compliments on them and pointed out to everyone who made a complement that they were Crocs. Who knew that Crocs had high heels? I recommend the shoes highly." —Healthy LivingPrice: $46.01+ (available in sizes 4–11 and three colors)
A slide sandal that beautifully bridges the gap between a sandal and a house shoe — which we could all use. They're also low-profile, making them the perfect choice to throw into your suitcase for that trip you've been looking forward to.
Promising review: "Slip on and go! These shoes are so comfortable and look good with any article of clothing. I wear them with dresses, shorts and jeans and I just love them. The blue is a pretty color and I'm looking at purchasing them again in other colors, that's how much I love them." —Geri Massaro Price: $7.73+ (available in sizes 5.5–11, including wide fits, and 26 colors)
A wedge sandal from the one and only Dr. Scholl that will turn any day into a day deserving of a little heel. Wedge sandals go with everything and Dr. Scholl has never steered me wrong, so say hello to ultimate confidence, you heel-wearing She-Ra. Your comfort insole secret is safe with me.
Promising review: "These are the best sandals I have ever had, they are so comfortable, bought them went to Disney World and that is a lot of walking so I expected some blisters, but there were none, so there is no break-in period. You can literally hit the ground running in these shoes. Love them." —stephonPrice: $47.91+ (available in sizes 6–11 and three colors)
Doc Martens sandals by yet another genius doctor of foot comfort. These sandals are classic Docs — cute, comfortable, and durable. Honestly, what more can we ask for?
Psst! Reviewers suggest sizing down in these.Promising review: "I love these shoes. I bought them as walking shoes to wear on my vacation in the islands. I read the reviews and bought one size down and when I received they were a bit snug, but two days later they were stretched to support my feet perfectly. They provide that classic Doc Marten comfort and I am so satisfied with my choice. They look good with almost everything. I've walked miles in them so far and my feet never ache." —Cam BronxPrice: $75.28+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in two colors)
Laceless loafers 100% boating party-ready no matter where you live. Manifest that ocean breeze and gentle yacht rock. I can smell the salty air now.
Promising review: "These Hey Dude shoes are my go-to for everyday wear. They're super lightweight, comfy, and easy to slip on. The beige color matches everything, and they're machine washable, which is a huge plus. Perfect for errands, travel, or just lounging around." —Home Comfort and LovePrice: $27+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 17 colors)
A pair of platforms that will bring you straight to a late-90s classroom without the dreaded *squeak squeak squeak* that came with too-plastic-y platforms. We loved it. We learned from it. We added memory foam. We love it again.
Promising review: "These sandals are right on trend and so comfortable. I was comparing a few different brands, but I'm glad I went with these. They have a comfortable sole, are true to size, and did not require a 'break-in' period. Would definitely recommend!" —KatjaPrice: $39.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and two colors)
Ballet flats with memory foam insoles for those of us — *ahem* ME *ahem* — who had to stop wearing their favorite style thanks to lack of support. Ballet flats still go with everything and add a little daintiness to your day — only now they're ALSO comfortable. Put them in your cart in 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4.
Promising review: "I can't tell you how many compliments I have received on these shoes. They're adorable!! They're comfortable and super stylish! I'm on my second pair and considering buying a third one. I don't ever want to not have these in my closet." —FixurpetsPrice: $25.87+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide fits, and 17 colors)
Slip-on sandals that will go with literally anything you choose to wear now that warm weather is back. Say goodbye to sacrificing that sundress for comfortable shoes — you CAN have both. Heck — one reviewer even wore them for her wedding.
Promising review: "SO comfortable and they fit perfectly!! They're inexpensive but don't let that fool you. They are super cute, lay flat in a suitcase, are lightweight and look great. Shades of nude are tricky but they nailed it. Colors are accurate. I am going to buy every color!" —Amanda ThomasPrice: $26.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in seven colors).

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The moment I knew: he lost an election, but he was still smiling
The moment I knew: he lost an election, but he was still smiling

Yahoo

time2 days ago

  • Yahoo

The moment I knew: he lost an election, but he was still smiling

Daniel and I went to the same high school in Melbourne. He was a year older than me, and we must have passed each other thousands of times, but I have no memory of ever talking to him. We knew of each other but we didn't know each other's names. We met properly for the first time at a pre-drinks when I was in my first year of university. He was holding a six-pack of beer and looked vaguely familiar. I introduced myself, he offered me one of his drinks and we got talking. Not long after, we started dating. We'd walk on the beach in St Kilda together, cook meals and grab coffee whenever we could. It was simple, easy and just felt right. I quickly realised Daniel and I could dive deep into a shared passion of ours – Australian politics – without it ever turning into a fight. At the time, I was studying politics as part of my arts/law degree, and Daniel had been a member of the Labor party since he was 16. In Daniel, I found someone who spoke the same language and shared similar values. Politics wasn't the sole foundation of our relationship, but when something big happened, we weren't shy about debating it. While we were still at university, Daniel landed a job working for a politician. I decided to copy him, and I emailed every member of parliament in Victoria until one of them offered me a role. If he could do it, so could I. We pushed each other forward like that and we still do. When Daniel decided to run for federal parliament at just 21, I campaigned with him every step of the way. We door-knocked together and handed out his flyers. People would do a double take when they met him, looking at his scuffed Converse sneakers. He ran in a safe Liberal seat, against a candidate who later became Australia's trade minister. Slim chances didn't bother Daniel, though. He ran for office because he had the time and believed in the cause. I remember being so proud of him for trying his best, even in the face of great odds. The night of the election, we hung out and watched the results roll in live on TV. Daniel was exhausted after handing out how-to-vote cards all day, and we both knew he'd lost. Despite that, he still had a big smile on his face, and in that moment I knew this was my guy. I felt so moved watching how much Daniel gave of himself – not for praise, but because he truly cared. It was one of those quiet, powerful moments. When I ran for parliament, years later, Daniel returned the favour. He hung my posters around our neighbourhood and helped me letterbox. When the votes were counted and I didn't win, he knew exactly what to say, because he'd been there too. Related: The moment I knew: we were running late, but his optimism was contagious We've been married for a decade now and have five kids together. Despite the chaos of our busy life, Daniel and I regularly have animated discussions about what's going on in the country. Our garage is still a jumble of old campaign signs wedged between prams and half-empty tins of paint. The kids sometimes drag one out, asking if we really did run for parliament and if we won. We laugh, because that was never the point. For us, politics is about trying to make Australia a better place. These days, we're more likely to be caring for our children than campaigning, but the ideas that motivated us back then still drive us. We did it for the children we were dreaming of, and now we're raising them.

20 Best Platform Sandals For A Little Extra Height
20 Best Platform Sandals For A Little Extra Height

Buzz Feed

time2 days ago

  • Buzz Feed

20 Best Platform Sandals For A Little Extra Height

Ugg GoldenGlow Sandals bound to turn heads and lead to so many compliments, you're basically obligated to snag 'em in every color. Slide your feet in, adjust 'em to your liking, and be on your way! They're wonderfully light and springy with a grippy footbed and a comfy sugarcane EVA sole for optimal support. Soda flatform espadrilles that'll help you ~step up~ your fashion game without enduring the agony that comes from wearing a blister-inducing pair of high heels. These go with denim, maxi dresses, skirt, and soo much more. Or some slip-on platform wedges, which are the kinda sandals you swoon over the moment you lay eyes on 'em — who could blame you? These lovely platforms are effortlessly chic and pair with all kinds of ensembles, so you're def gonna get your money's worth. Even with the extra lift, reviewers can't stop raving about how comfy they are. Dr. Martens platform sandals because this iconic brand's reach extends far beyond their popular combat boots. If you want a shoe that's ready to wear right outta the box with hardly any break-in period, this is it! This sandal will *literally* knock your socks off so you can level up your footwear collection with equal parts comfort and style. Croc platforms you'll probably wanna live in considering how well they pair with almost any outfit *and* they won't cause your feet unbearable pain. Even if you swore you'd never become a Crocs convert, these are the ones that just might change your mind. Teva flatform sandals that'll be like a looong overdue treat for your tired feet. You get a contoured footbed with heel cupping, quick-dry straps perfect for outdoor adventures, and a 1.75-inch platform height that'll take things up a notch (or almost two, really). Plus, these have *three* points of adjustability, so achieving the perfect fit is easier than ever. Charlotte Stone platforms so you can put all the black and beige sandals in your closet to shame with a single purchase. Sure, those have a time and a place but these multicolor beauties will make you the most colorful person in the room. Most importantly, they have memory foam insoles so your feet won't suffer in the name of fashion — these babies are COMFY! A pair of showstopping lug-sole sandals you'll only wish you found sooner because they make quite the fashion statement without compromising on comfort, which is no small feat. They have an impressive 1.5-inch platform, a heel height of 2.75 inches, a soft, breathable lining, and adjustable ankle straps. Or Nisolo flatform sandals when you're easing your way into the world of platforms and would prefer to start small — these only add an inch of height and have a soft, breathable leather interior so your feet stay happy! There's also a grooved outsole for improved traction *and* easy hook-and-loop closures for quick adjustments. Birkenstock platforms strikingly similar to the iconic sandal you're probably familiar with, BUT this one has a little extra height to ~elevate~ your footwear game to new heights. It has the contoured footbed you know and love, a 1-inch EVA platform, and a Nubuck leather upper for a more luxurious feel. A pair of shockingly comfy Reef sandals you're gonna be head over heels for — all without *actually* enduring the pain of wearing heels, that is. These are made of vegan leather and have a bouncy footbed with solid arch support. Plus, the 1.75-inch platform will give you a much-needed boost! A unique pair of platform wedge sandals with a colorful beaded accent because your shoes are an important part of your outfit and these sandals are here to tie your look together. Plus, they'll just look ridiculously cute with your new pedicure. They come in styles without the beads too! OR! A handmade pair of huarache sandals — these are bursting with equal parts color *and* comfort that your feet will be sure to praise you for. They're a bit more casual (and versatile!) with a fun design that everyone will ask about. Some lightweight, waterproof platform slides that come in a variety of cute styles, including single-buckle, double-buckle, *and* crisscross straps. You'll stand a little taller but your feet won't pay the price — these have a deep heel cup, pronounced arch support, and a cozy footbed that molds to your feet for long-lasting comfort. A Sorel strappy sandal with a breathable, eye-catching design and a bouncy footbed to make your feet jump for joy. They're giving sporty sneaker vibes without having to commit to a closed-toe shoe when it's scorching outside. You're welcome! Or these slip-on platform sandals for anyone who wants an easy, breezy shoe that adds some height without committing to a painful pair of heels! The elastic straps are perfectly stretchy, so they won't rub *and* they have a cushioned footbed that's comfy enough for all-day wear. Bonus: The durable anti-slip outsole gives you plenty of traction while walking. Floral wedge platforms with a generous 4" heel if you're craving a BIG boost that still promises a cushy fit that won't hurt your feet. This handmade sandal is crafted with soft leather that molds to your feet for a perfect fit! And that gorgeous floral design? Other sandals could neverrr. A splurge-worthy stylish, strappy number so you can put a lil' pep in your step *without* any added discomfort — a footwear dream come true IMO. These have an ultra-soft footbed, secure straps, and a modest 1.4-inch platform to lift you up juuust the right amount. A pair of vegan Lemon Jelly platform slide sandals made of durable EVA foam that can accompany you pretty much anywhere. If you want a comfy shoe perfect for relaxing poolside OR handling a day full of running errands, you've met your match. Aside from the bold 2-inch platform, these are water-friendly, PETA-approved, recyclable, and produced sustainably! Greek gladiator-inspired sandals because you've probably seen these timeless beauties in the form of flats but, yes, they exist as platforms too (about 1.5 inches to be exact)! The soft leather insoles are *extra* kind to your feet while the durable, anti-slip outsole is made of rubber so you still have good traction.

Cannes Film Festival is a celebration of movies and their stars. I spent my week trying to catch them all.
Cannes Film Festival is a celebration of movies and their stars. I spent my week trying to catch them all.

Yahoo

time4 days ago

  • Yahoo

Cannes Film Festival is a celebration of movies and their stars. I spent my week trying to catch them all.

I spent an unforgettable week in the south of France this May, immersed among the celebrities and movies that I'd be writing about for at least the next year as they generated buzz for their projects at the Cannes Film Festival. Between screenings and celeb-spotting excursions, I kept a diary about my first time in the glamorous alternate universe at Cannes. Let's flip through it. The hunt for influencers The author dined at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. (Kelsey Weekman/Yahoo News) My sleepless eight-hour overnight flight left me edgy yet determined, so the first thing I did when I landed in Nice was check my luggage at the hotel and speed over to Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. The eavesdropping was ideal among uber-wealthy lunchgoers, but there weren't any social media stars, despite it being the go-to spot for celebrities to take photos channeling '80s Harrison Ford. Advertisement I accidentally blew my per diem on a buffet with €15 water. I spent the rest of the week hanging out in hotel lobbies and finally infiltrated a TikTok creator lounge, where I learned that even if you have hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, you can still be starstruck by movie stars. Find out more about what I saw and what I heard here. A middle school reunion The author ran into her middle school best friend, who is now a TikToker, at the Cannes Film Festival. (Kelsey Weekman/Yahoo News) I wasn't expecting to run into anyone I knew in Cannes this week, so imagine my surprise when I saw my best friend from middle school for the first time in 17 years. Jocelyn Yates wasn't just at the festival — she was one of the creators TikTok brought to the red carpet, and she got to meet Denzel Washington and Tom Cruise! I ran into her at the platform's creator lounge after sprinting nearly a mile to get from the press room to an interview, and I had to dart away immediately afterward to get to a premiere. Luckily, it was enough time to snag a selfie and her new phone number, so we'll be able to truly reconnect under less sweaty circumstances for me. The go-to small talk topic Vie Privée cast members on the red carpet. (Antonin Thuillier/AFP via Getty Images) Anyone who spoke to me before I left for Cannes got an earful about how I had to use two different clothing rental companies to find the six evening gowns I packed for the festival, which has a strict and fancy dress code for premieres. I ended up needing only two, but I didn't mind looking fabulous every day I was there. I'm ready to declare the heeled Crocs I wore here and to interview people outside the Met Gala as the best shoes for reporting. Not sponsored, just praising a comfy shoe! During the festival, attendees couldn't stop gossiping about newly added dress code rules that banned nudity and lengthy dress trains. People around me couldn't stop asking, 'Had you seen anyone get turned away?' 'Who had to scramble to get a new outfit?' 'Were the new 'decency' standards antiquated?' Read more about the dress code fallout. A fan experience without the whimsy Benicio del Toro, Austin Butler, Angela Bassett and Angelina Jolie interact with fans at Cannes Film Festival. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos clockwise from top left: Sameer al-Doumy/AFP via Getty Images (2), Valerie Hache/AFP via Getty Images, Sameer al-Doumy/AFP via Getty Images.) Advertisement One of my favorite things to do at events is stand outside and talk to fans about the passion that brought them there, so I was shocked when the people who lined up for celebrity spotting at Cannes were largely grumpy and unwilling to chat. My 38-day French Duolingo streak didn't prepare me for that kind of conversational maneuvering. Their fascination with movie stars was captivating, though, so I spent a very memorable evening in line with celebrity spotters, including a dog who has encountered more stars than this entertainment reporter and two cruise ship passengers who wanted to know what all the fuss was about. The four-legged red carpet star The most memorable person I met while mingling with fans near the red carpet was Cannes resident Cécile Forest, and her 4-year-old Chihuahua, Savanna. The tiny dog is always dressed in pink, and sometimes those outfits are customized for the movie premiere of the night. I've seen her in several memes and viral photos. Forest told me on Instagram after I left the festival that Savanna is an ambassador for Culture de Wouf, which advocates for dogs to be allowed into more spaces. Advertisement 'We believe that we must make life easier for owners, to reduce the number of abandonments. We must let dogs into stores so that there are fewer dog thefts on the sidewalks and fewer dogs dying locked in cars,' Forest told me. My festival foe I thought I'd be spending my downtime at the beach or sipping a cappuccino and people watching at a cafe, but because the Cannes Film Festival ticketing process is so intense, I spent every idle moment refreshing the ticketing page. I don't regret my intensity at all — I got to see everything I wanted! — though sometimes it was mere minutes before a screening. Iana Murray, a longtime X mutual whom I met for the first time in person over matcha near the Palais, attended Cannes for the seventh time this year. She told me the ticketing process is much better than it used to be. People had to stand in lines for hours to get into screenings. Next year, I'll try to spend more time refreshing those pages in more scenic locations. A bucket list achievement Tom Cruise sends love to his fans at the Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. (Yahoo News; photo: Stephane Cardinale/Corbis via Getty Images) As a first-timer, I didn't get invited to many parties or exclusive events. I spent most of my time scrapping for tickets and conversation. The highly anticipated premiere of Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning was by far the most glamorous and exclusive event I've ever been to in my entire life, probably. Read about the surreal experience here. The chaos of constant clapping I technically took part in two standing ovations, a tradition at Cannes. Movies are judged based on how long people stand and clap for them afterward. Five minutes is considered mediocre, and the longest recorded ovation was 22 minutes for Pan's Labyrinth in 2006. Advertisement But I learned from witnessing one in person that there's no true consensus on when an ovation begins and ends. Is it when the first person stands until the last person stops clapping? Or is it when the clapping begins until the final person stops standing? Is it both? Is it more of a vibes-based calculation? Critics and reporters haven't reached a consensus. A mysterious red carpet attendee Raphaël Quenard and a condor attend the Die, My Love red carpet. (Daniele Venturelli/WireImage via Getty Images) I watched the red carpet for Die, My Love from a window in the press office where photography was explicitly banned. In addition to beholding Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson with my own mortal eyes, I saw a person in what appeared to be a giant turkey costume. I assumed that the bird would be featured in the movie, but it was not. I still don't know what happened there. A great time at the movies I saw 11 movies at Cannes Film Festival. (Photo Illustration: Victoria Ellis for Yahoo News, photos: Letterboxd, Focus Features /Courtesy Everett Collection, A24 / Courtesy Everett Collection) I knew I'd be missing out on about half of the buzzy Cannes titles because I only attended the first of two weeks of the festival, but I wasn't ready to see people lauding Joachim Trier's Sentimental Value as the best of the bunch long after I'd left the Croisette. I may die of FOMO if I can't see it soon. Still, I saw nearly a dozen films that I loved — several of which I know we'll be talking about well into awards season. Read more about my favorites here. Advertisement Takes on a plane The most pressing question I wanted to ask celebrities this week is what movies they watched on the plane on the way to Cannes, though I only got to ask two. The Phoenician Scheme star Jeffrey Wright told me he doesn't watch movies on planes but he does play chess on his phone. His costar Rupert Friend said that tiny airplane screens are depressing to him, so he went to sleep. On the flight to Cannes, everyone around me was watching something from the Mission: Impossible series, including me. On the way back to New York, though, everyone was watching Friends. I watched Oceans Eleven, Janet Planet and One of Them Days. Blackout FOMO A restaurant without lights during a power outage during the Cannes Film Festival. () I unexpectedly experienced a lot of FOMO when I read that a blackout hit the south of France ahead of the Cannes awards ceremony — and again when I read that it was suspected sabotage! Not only was I missing out on the festivities that may set the stage for the upcoming awards season, but there was drama afoot as well. Survival by the numbers According to my iPhone's Health app, I walked an average of 9,900 steps per day — about 3,000 steps more than my typical count for film festivals over the last year. All the theaters were pretty close together, so I'm chalking this one up to the fact that it was just really beautiful outside and a joy to walk around. Advertisement On the other hand, I slept an average of 4 hours and 30 minutes every night in Cannes, which is about 2 hours less than the usual festival. One night, I slept only 29 minutes. My average bedtime was 2:40 a.m. I'm also blaming this on the fact that there was just so much to see. The little things Spectators prepare to watch a movie at the Cinéma de la Plage at Cannes Film Festival. (Sameer Al-Doumy/AFP via Getty Images) When I talk about Cannes, I mention seeing Tom Cruise in person, spending hours in line and rubbing shoulders with the glamorous. But when I think about the moments I enjoyed the most, it's the movie I got to watch on the beach after a long day, the chats with excited students who had long dreamed of walking the Croisette, the blurry pictures of fearless pigeons hunting for food and the last-minute trips to Steak and Shake when I was starving but unwilling to pay €35 for a salad. Some of the magic of Cannes may be inherent in its exclusivity and European pretentiousness, which makes those quirky moments of charm all the more unforgettable.

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