The 2026 Met Gala red carpet showcased celebrities interpreting the Costume Institute’s “Costume Art” theme and “Fashion is Art” dress code, exploring the connection between clothing and art over millennia. Despite the controversy surrounding the event’s billionaire sponsorship, attendees embraced the night as a platform for fashion creativity. From drawing inspiration from classical sculptures to iconic artworks, the red carpet transformed into a living gallery of visual culture.
Celebrities like Emma Chamberlain, Sabrina Carpenter, Blackpink’s Lisa, and more embodied artistic themes through their unique interpretations of famous art pieces and historical figures. Heidi Klum channeled Raffaelle Monti’s “The Veiled Vestal” with a full-body illusion look, while Beyoncé stunned in a crystalline skeleton gown inspired by anatomical studies. Madonna paid homage to surrealist painter Leonora Carrington’s “The Temptation of St. Anthony,” and Kendall Jenner embodied the Winged Victory of Samothrace in Zac Posen.
Hailey Bieber’s custom Saint Laurent look referenced a 1969 collaboration between Yves Saint Laurent and sculptor Claude Lalanne, while Bad Bunny’s transformative prosthetic ensemble reflected “The Aging Body” theme from the Costume Institute exhibition. The event also saw Chase Infiniti in a beaded dress inspired by the Venus de Milo, Luke Evans channeling Tom of Finland figures, and Audrey Nuna in an abstract expressionism-inspired gown.
Angela Bassett’s Prabal Gurung outfit drew inspiration from Laura Wheeler Waring’s “Girl in a Pink Dress” painting, while Rachel Zegler’s ensemble paid tribute to Paul Delaroche’s “The Execution of Lady Jane Grey.” Cardi B’s Marc Jacobs dress was inspired by surrealist doll works, and Hunter Schafer’s Prada outfit echoed Gustav Klimt’s “Mäda Primavesi.” Anok Yai’s Balenciaga look took cues from the Black Madonna religious icon.
Each celebrity’s interpretation added a unique artistic flair to the Met Gala, showcasing a blend of historical references and modern fashion aesthetics that captivated the audience and celebrated the intersection of art and style.