The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute showcased the theme of “Costume Art” at the 2026 Met Gala, with a dress code centered around “Fashion is Art.” Despite some controversy over the event’s billionaire sponsors, the red carpet was a spectacle of fashion creativity. Celebrities drew inspiration from various artistic periods and iconic artworks, transforming the red carpet into a living art gallery.
Among the standout looks were Emma Chamberlain channeling Vincent van Gogh and Edvard Munch, Sabrina Carpenter in a dress adorned with film strips from the classic Audrey Hepburn movie “Sabrina,” and Blackpink’s Lisa in a surreal ensemble inspired by traditional Thai dance. Each attendee’s outfit was a nod to centuries of visual culture, embodying the night’s artistic themes.
Notable appearances included Heidi Klum as the Veiled Vestal, Beyoncé in a crystalline skeleton gown, Madonna as The Temptation of St. Anthony, Kendall Jenner as Winged Victory, and Hailey Bieber paying homage to the 1969 Yves Saint Laurent and Claude Lalanne collaboration. Other striking interpretations included Bad Bunny’s transformative prosthetic look, Chase Infiniti as the Venus de Milo, Luke Evans as a Tom of Finland figure, and Audrey Nuna in abstract expressionism.
The red carpet also featured Angela Bassett as the Girl in a Pink Dress, Rachel Zegler as Lady Jane Grey, Cardi B as The Doll, Hunter Schafer as Gustav Klimt’s Mäda Primavesi, and Anok Yai as the Black Madonna. Each outfit was a unique interpretation of art and fashion, showcasing the deep connection between garments and artistic expression.