Gucci calls Alia Bhatt's Cannes 2025 Swarovski embellished ensemble as 'gown', netizens say, "Its a sari/ lehenga not a gown"

Alia Bhatt made her much-awaited red carpet debut at the Cannes 2025 and stunned with her fashion game at the prestigious event. Especially, her Gucci ensemble for the Cannes closing ceremony on May 24 is the talk of the town as the fashion brand labeled the three piece set as a 'gown', what was interpreted as a saree by many.

On the red carpet, Alia Bhatt drew attention with her eye-catching Gucci outfit, which went viral on the internet. Referred to as a "modern saree," "saree-inspired look," and even "Gucci’s first saree" by multiple Instagram pages, the ensemble consisted of a shimmering three-piece set with the GG monogram and crystal embellishments.

Alia Also called it a "custom Gucci GG monogram interpretation of a saree" in an interview. However, Gucci shared Alia's photos on the official Instagram page, calling it a gown. The caption under the post read, "Global Brand Ambassador Alia Bhatt attended the closing ceremony of the 78th Cannes Film Festival in a custom Gucci gown with embroidered crystals in a GG Monogram pattern. The actress was also pictured in a custom three-piece set."

While the look aimed to blend global couture with desi inspiration, it sparked a mixed response online. Several Indian fashion enthusiasts voiced their disappointment, criticizing the interpretation of traditional wear and questioning its authenticity as a saree.

One user wrote, "Umm that gown is called a sari. At least give credit to the cultures that wear it proudly. Guccis take is beautiful but saying gown is insulting the Indian woman rocking it." While another comment pointed out, "It looks great, but let’s be clear – it’s a lehenga. Kindly requesting Gucci to acknowledge this cultural heritage appropriately. A name correction or an official statement addressing the cultural context would be appreciated." A netizen also wrote, "Its a sari/ lehenga not a gown."