The annual fashion show and fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute is facing criticism and calls for a boycott this year, despite its historical success in attracting attendees and generating revenue. The event, scheduled for May 4, will showcase the theme “Costume Art,” highlighting the connection between fashion and art throughout history.
Curator Andrew Bolton emphasized the theme “Fashion is Art,” aiming to shift the conversation away from the debate on whether fashion qualifies as art. The event, which raised over $31 million last year, will take place in the newly inaugurated Condé M. Nast Galleries, replacing the museum’s former retail space.
This year’s exhibit will feature a diverse range of mannequins, including figures often overlooked in art history, such as those representing larger and disabled bodies. The star-studded event will be co-chaired by Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Beyoncé, with notable names like Anna Wintour, Anthony Vaccarello, and Zoë Kravitz leading the host committee.
However, the gala’s association with Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos as honorary chairs has sparked controversy. The Bezos couple’s involvement, serving as the primary funders of the event, has drawn criticism and led to calls for a boycott due to concerns over worker exploitation and ethical practices within Amazon.
Protests against the gala, notably from the activist group Everyone Hates Elon, have highlighted Amazon’s alleged involvement in contentious issues like aiding deportation orders and reports of employees being compelled to urinate in bottles. These protests underscore a broader criticism of the Met Gala’s exclusivity and opulence against the backdrop of societal wealth disparities.
The decision of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani to skip the event signals a shift in the gala’s cultural significance, as past attendees have used the platform to advocate for social causes. With Anna Wintour’s potential retirement looming, questions arise about the gala’s future without her leadership, especially amidst changing dynamics in the fashion industry and societal priorities.
Despite these challenges, the Costume Institute has been prudent in building financial reserves from Met Gala proceeds to ensure its sustainability in case of unforeseen circumstances. While the gala’s future may face uncertainties, the 2026 event is set to proceed as planned on Monday.