A dazzling tribute to Indian heritage fused with Italian luxury, the look marked a cultural and couture milestone on the red carpet
Alia Bhatt gave what might be her most iconic red carpet look to date at the 78th Cannes Film Festival’s star-studded finale. Not only did Bhatt shine in the Cannes sun, but she also created fashion history when she wore a unique sari-inspired ensemble designed by Italian fashion powerhouse Gucci. The ensemble marked a new era of fashion that simultaneously honours and reimagines tradition, and it was more than just a red carpet show-stopper. It was a turning point for cross-cultural couture.
Rhea Kapoor styled the outfit with elegance and precision. It paid homage to the timeless Indian sari while merging seamlessly with Gucci’s globally recognized aesthetic. The nude-toned ensemble shimmered with sequin embroidery and featured Gucci’s signature GG monogram rendered in a delicate mesh jail, creating a silhouette that was both ethereal and statement-making.
The ensemble’s design was a masterclass in balance—honoring heritage while embracing high fashion innovation. The sari-inspired outfit included a plunging neckline blouse, a sleek straight-cut skirt, and a dupatta-style drape that flowed effortlessly over her shoulder. But it was the detailing that truly elevated the look: Swarovski crystals embroidered throughout the fabric caught and refracted the Riviera light, creating a mesmerizing effect as Bhatt moved down the red carpet.
Gucci’s foray into the realm of Indian fashion is significant. Known for its bold maximalism and artistic renditions, the luxury house opted for refined elegance with this look—a surprising yet welcome departure that emphasised craftsmanship over ostentation. This cultural fusion marked more than just a new fashion chapter for Gucci; it reinforced the industry’s growing recognition of South Asian sartorial heritage and its enduring influence on global style.
Alia Bhatt, a longtime champion of Indian fashion on international platforms, embodied the spirit of this cultural synergy. She accessorized with a bejeweled Gucci Jackie bag that complemented rather than competed with the outfit’s sparkle. Her glam, too, was a study in understated luxury. Her hair—styled in retro Hollywood waves—offered a vintage touch, while her makeup emphasized natural beauty with a radiant, dewy finish.
Partnering once again with L’Oréal Paris, Bhatt’s flawless base was achieved with the Infallible 24H Tinted Serum in shade 3-4 Light Medium, giving her skin a soft and hydrated glow. Her eyes were the focal point, defined with the Voluminous Panorama Waterproof Mascara and the Infallible Grip Up To 36H Gel Automatic Eye Liner in Intense Black. The look was completed with her signature Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick in “Worth It 601″—a shade she lovingly calls the “Alia shade”. A touch of Infallible 3 Second Setting Spray ensured her glow lasted through the night.
Even her hair color contributed to the overall glam, with vibrant tones achieved using L’Oréal Paris Casting Crème Gloss, adding a rich, glossy finish that beautifully framed her face and completed the head-to-toe coordination.
This is not Alia Bhatt’s first time commanding attention at Cannes, but this look marks a defining point in her fashion journey. Known for her fearless sartorial choices, Bhatt has consistently used the red carpet as a platform to highlight Indian craftsmanship and culture, and this Gucci collaboration takes that mission to new, global heights.
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In a landscape where red carpet fashion often plays it safe, Alia Bhatt dared to be different—and succeeded. Her Cannes 2025 look wasn’t just about glamour; it was about narrative, legacy, and bridging worlds. In bringing together Indian tradition and Italian luxury, she didn’t just walk the red carpet—she walked into fashion history.
As the cameras flashed and the world watched, one thing became clear: heritage met haute couture at Cannes, and Alia Bhatt was its most radiant ambassador.