Zindagi Gulzar Hai actress Sanam Saeed made a stunning debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2026. The mega event not only brought cinema but also the fashion industry together.
While many Indian celebrities, including Aditi Rao Hydari, Alia Bhatt, and others, graced the red carpet, it was Pakistani actress Sanam Saeed who turned heads with her look. Known for her remarkable work in Pakistani television and films, she has been named the inaugural honouree of the South Asian Women Excellence in Cinema & Arts initiative launched by Us Studios.
Which designer did Sanam Saeed wear for Cannes 2026?
Sanam Saeed wore a custom creation by Pakistani designer Hussain Rehar for her Cannes debut. The Zindagi Gulzar Hai actress opted for an ivory ensemble inspired by a white peacock, featuring intricate Mukesh, Zardozi, and mirror work throughout. According to reports, a total of 50 artisans worked on the outfit, spending nearly 2,354 hours crafting the detailed ensemble, and it indeed reflected in Sanam's look.
To make the look even more elegant, Sanam added a maang tika, ear cuffs, and a gajra, which are usually associated with traditional Indian styling.
Take a look here:

(Image: Instagram/@hussainrehar.official)
Netizens' reaction to Sanam Saeed's Cannes 2026 look
As soon as the videos and photos of Sanam went viral on the internet, they grabbed the attention of netizens. There was a mixed reaction online. While many people praised how drop-dead gorgeous Sanam looked, others criticised how Pakistanis often end up copying Indians. A user (@riffat.qaiser) wrote, "Dress is disappointing." One of the many users from India claimed, "They're always copying us."
Who is Sanam Saeed?
Sanam Saeed is a critically acclaimed British-Pakistani actress known for serials like Zindagi Gulzar Hai. Saeed made her debut in 2010 with the serial Daam.
Over the years, she has earned recognition for portraying unconventional and layered characters across films, television, and theatre.

