Met Gala 2026: Stars Embrace Costume Art Theme

The 2026 Met Gala unfolded with a lavish interpretation of its 'Costume Art' theme, inviting celebrities to explore whimsical and dramatic fashion.

This year's event saw the highly anticipated return of Beyoncé after a decade-long absence. She captivated attendees with a monumental Olivier Rousteing creation, featuring an embellished skeleton design and a dramatic feathered cape. Beyoncé shared her joy in returning with her daughter, Blue Ivy, who, at 14, was among the night's youngest guests, as the Gala typically requires guests to be 18 or older.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky concluded the carpet arrivals, a tradition they've established. Rihanna donned a custom Maison Margiela gown adorned with thousands of jewels, while A$AP Rocky sported a custom Chanel ensemble.

Co-chairs for the evening included Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour. Wintour, in a feathery Chanel piece, marked her first Gala since stepping down as Editor-in-Chief of American Vogue. Kidman appeared in a striking red Chanel gown, and Venus Williams accessorized her sparkling gown with a jewel-encrusted neckpiece.

Other notable attendees showcased creative interpretations of the theme. Tennis star Serena Williams wore a silver Marc Jacobs creation. Lauren Sánchez Bezos channeled art history with a Schiaparelli gown inspired by John Singer Sargent's 'Madame X.' Broadway star Joshua Henry opened the event with a performance.

Many stars embraced the 'costume' aspect, with Heidi Klum and Bad Bunny nearly unrecognizable in elaborate outfits. Angela Bassett stunned in a gown inspired by a Harlem Renaissance painting, and Emma Chamberlain wore a vibrant, art-resembling gown. Model and activist Aariana Rose Philip made history as the first wheelchair user to attend the Met Gala.

Manish Malhotra contributed a cape tribute to Mumbai, while Karan Johar wore a hand-painted cape inspired by Indian mythology. Naomi Osaka revealed a second outfit after her initial appearance. Katy Perry's face was obscured by a unique mirrored mask, and Sam Smith sported an extravagant feathered headpiece.

Hunter Schafer's Prada dress paid homage to Gustav Klimt's 'Mäda Primavesi,' while Madonna arrived in a dramatic nautical-witch ensemble. Kim and Kylie Jenner wore distinct Schiaparelli designs, with Kendall Jenner in Zac Posen for GAP.

Sarah Paulson's mask fashioned from a dollar bill signified the '1 percent,' and Lena Dunham's Valentino gown was inspired by Artemisia Gentileschi's 'Judith Slaying Holofernes.' Charlie XCX opted for a sophisticated black gown, and Doja Cat wore a Grecian-inspired dress made of silicone.

Sinéad Burke returned in a corseted gown, and Sabrina Carpenter's dress was made of film strips, possibly referencing the 1954 film 'Sabrina.' Cher and Stevie Nicks also made impactful appearances with distinct styles.