Ponti, 18, donned a bandeau-cut gown that was both contemporary and regal. The dress featured cream and charcoal gray stripes, accented by a delicate gold lace overlay. The dramatic, voluminous skirt added to the theatrical flair of the ensemble. Completing her look, she paired the gown with a striking diamond and emerald choker, exuding elegance and sophistication.

Some were harsher in their criticism, with one user calling it “a farce,” and adding, “They do know it’s the 21st century. 🥱🫤” However, another countered, “why farce I know that the dress looks like a curtain but beside that…are you poor [sic]?” Summing up the sentiment of others, one user wrote, “These dresses are bad.”

TikTok reactions to a video of Ponti dancing were similarly polarized. Negative comments included, “dress looks like my shower curtain, but not as nice [sic],” and, “What has happened to fashion and style? These girl are beautiful why are the dress mediocre [sic]?”

Hello Magazine captured the essence of the night, sharing an Instagram post that celebrated Ponti’s debut. “Lucia Ponti, granddaughter of screen icon Sophia Loren danced the night away in her stunning Armani gown at this year’s Le Bal des Débutantes.”

“My grandmother always believed in timeless elegance and the importance of wearing something that reflects your true self,” Lucia revealed. She added that her grandmother’s wardrobe inspired her love for simplicity and tailoring, along with the importance of individuality in fashion.

Ponti further expressed her hopes for the gown she chose for Le Bal. “I had looked through other dresses that were featured in Le Bal in previous years, and they all individually represented the girls so beautifully. I just hoped to find a dress that would do the same for me,” she shared.

“My grandmother and I are very close. We visit her frequently in Geneva, and she comes to visit us in LA as well. I love her dearly, and despite the distance, we spend ample time together,” Lucia said.

As for the guidance she carried into the event, Lucia shared, “My grandmother gave me the most treasured piece of advice, not jewellery, which is to be yourself. I will make sure to carry this with me as I embark on this journey.” The young debutante credited Loren’s resilience and grit as defining traits that have inspired her to always strive for success, no matter the challenges.