Cannes Film Festival 2016: Cheryl Cole steals the spotlight at Slack Bay Premiere

Cheryl Cole was back with a vengeance as she hit the red carpet in Cannes for the premiere of Slack Bay. Looking radiant, the former X Factor judge proved that nothing makes a woman more beautiful than being in love.

The singer has been partying up on the French Riviera with boyfriend Liam Payne. The couple went public with the romance in February and have been inseparable ever since.

However on this occasion she left the One Direction star behind, as she took centre stage on the red carpet. The 32-year-old was back on form and looking vibrant in a vivid Naeem Khan couture gown that appeared to reflect her happy state of mind. With her hair tied back in a slick ponytail, the Geordie beauty oozed style and sophistication, looking poised as she beamed for the mass of cameras that lined the red carpet.

It was a night for sartorial successes, as one star after another showcased their impeccable style. Blake Lively looked like the Belle of the ball literally, wearing what resembled a Cinderella inspired ball gown.

The duck egg-blue silk dress featured a scooped neckline, a belted bodice and a ruffled skirt, adorned with a sequined floral design. The actress, who is expecting her second child with actor husband Ryan Reynolds, 39, has been a star of the red carpet with each appearance more breathtaking than the last.

Bollywood beauty Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, proved she is the Queen of Cannes, wearing a stunning gold embellished gown by Ali Younes.

Victoria Silvstedt seemed to go for something also a little Princess inspired in a shimmering pastel blue gown leaving her blonde locks cascading down her back.

In contrast, French actress Juliette Binoche, who stars in the French comedy Slack Bay (Ma Loute) went gothic wearing a dramatic figure-hugging blue/black dress and with her slicked back hair in a long, low braid.

While the 52-year-old looked demure, the long-sleeved jersey top and silk skirt was one of the more unconventional looks of the night.

Directed by Bruni Dumont Slack Bay is in contention for the coveted Palme d'Or award. And while Binoche's wardrobe left critics divided, it's hoped her film fares better.