The 2026 Met Gala red carpet embraced the theme of “Costume Art” from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, with a dress code of “Fashion is Art.” Despite controversy over the event’s billionaire sponsorship, celebrities showcased a night of fashion theater, drawing inspiration from various art forms spanning 5,000 years. Attendees transformed the red carpet into a gallery, channeling classical sculptures, iconic artworks, and cultural references.
Celebrities like Emma Chamberlain, Sabrina Carpenter, and Blackpink’s Lisa presented stunning looks inspired by Vincent van Gogh, Edvard Munch, classic films, and traditional Thai dance. These fashion statements captured the artistic essence of the night.
Highlights included Heidi Klum’s full-body illusion look inspired by Raffaelle Monti’s “The Veiled Vestal,” Beyoncé in a crystalline skeleton gown by Olivier Rousteing, Madonna’s Saint Laurent ensemble inspired by Leonora Carrington’s art, Kendall Jenner’s Zac Posen attire inspired by the “Winged Victory of Samothrace,” and Hailey Bieber’s Yves Saint Laurent and Claude Lalanne homage.
Other notable appearances featured Bad Bunny in a transformative prosthetic look symbolizing “The Aging Body,” Chase Infiniti in a Thom Browne dress inspired by the “Venus de Milo,” Luke Evans in Palomo Spain paying tribute to Tom of Finland, and Audrey Nuna in Robert Wun reflecting Jackson Pollock’s abstract expressionism.
Angela Bassett, Rachel Zegler, Cardi B, Hunter Schafer, and Anok Yai also wowed the crowd with their art-inspired outfits, each showcasing a unique interpretation of famous artworks or cultural references. The event truly brought the theme of “Fashion is Art” to life on the red carpet.