Pretty and feminine gowns set the mood for this year's Venice Film Festival

Jenna Ortega looks delightfully sweet in a design comprising a heart shape bodice and tulle skirt. Photo: Reuters

Fashion is a big focus of the Venice Film Festival. Every year, the red carpets come alive with jaw-droppingly beautiful designs – worn by some of the biggest stars in showbiz.

This time around, feminine and pretty gowns were a top choice.

Jenna Ortega turned heads with her backless Dior gown. The bold red drew attention, as did the gauzy bustier in the shape of a heart.

Jung Ho-yeon also went for the same striking colour. She wore a soft draped dress by Louis Vuitton, which (upon a closer scrutiny) sparkled with thousands of micro-sized sequins.

For a more casual cool look, Cate Blanchett chose an elegant Louis Vuitton design. It featured a high neck, but with a flowy, sheer curtain at the bust dotted with shiny white crystals.

Read more: How celebrities bring the characters they play to life with method dressing

Others like Angelina Jolie and Taylor Russell went for the full dramatic effect.

Jolie's strapless gown in beige chiffon is by Tamara Ralph. She paired it with a faux fur stole that spoke old Hollywood glamour.

Russell stepped out in an easy and light Loewe dress. Her outfit had a more vintage vibe, especially with the connected neck scarf, but was still an it-girl modern look.

As for Amal Clooney, who accompanied husband George Clooney for the film festival, she shone brighter than ever in a yellow lace Versace gown. The ribbed corset top hugged her figure to perfection.

If the trend of the hour is about dressing demurely, these outfits certainly checked all the right boxes. From one feminine look to another, they all spoke of a more mindful way of drawing attention.