The 2026 Met Gala is set to be remembered for its most daring and revealing outfits yet, as celebrities embraced the dress code 'Fashion Is Art' with interpretations that pushed the boundaries of red carpet fashion. The theme called upon A-list attendees to explore how designers use the human body as a blank canvas, and the stars delivered with gusto.
Irina Shayk's Sculpted Abs Steal the Show
Irina Shayk, 40, ascended the iconic Met Gala staircase in a custom Alexander Wang look that featured a bra crafted from costume jewelry, leaving her sculpted midsection completely exposed. The model's confidence and physique were on full display, setting the tone for the evening's bold fashion statements.
Gigi Hadid's Sheer Elegance
Gigi Hadid, 31, opted for a completely sheer black dress by Miu Miu, which featured strategically placed decorations to preserve a semblance of modesty while still flashing her underwear. The daring choice was both elegant and provocative, perfectly aligning with the evening's theme.
Cara Delevingne's Deceptively Sexy Gown
Cara Delevingne, 33, walked the red carpet in a Ralph Lauren gown that appeared modest from the front—a black turtleneck dress cascading to the floor. However, upon turning around, she revealed a completely backless design that showcased her toned back, eliciting gasps from onlookers.
Tyla's Jewel-Encrusted Bust
Singer Tyla also made a notable appearance in a glamorous dress featuring a bust made entirely of jewelry. The intricate design covered her cleavage in a dazzling fashion, adding a touch of opulence to the evening.
Lena Mahfouf's Artistic Nudity
French influencer Lena Mahfouf, 28, did not shy away from showing skin. She worked the staircase in a design featuring a molding of two hands covering her breasts, paired with a baby blue dress that hugged her waist with delicate straps. The ensemble was both artistic and revealing.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Benefit, commonly known as the Met Gala, takes place annually on the first Monday in May. This year's theme is 'Costume Art,' with the dress code 'Fashion Is Art.' The event is widely considered the Super Bowl of celebrity red carpets.
Powerhouse Co-Chairs and Sponsors
Leading the charge this year is a trio of co-chairs: Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams, joining forces with Vogue's global editorial director Anna Wintour. It marks the first time tennis superstar Williams has co-chaired the gala. Kidman previously co-chaired in 2003 and 2005, while Beyoncé served as an honorary chair in 2013.
The New York City museum will pair historical and contemporary garments from the Costume Institute for the exhibition, which will be loosely divided into three categories: the classical and nude body, aging and pregnant bodies, and the anatomical body. The exhibit will unveil the Met's sprawling new Conde M. Nast Galleries, made possible by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sanchez, who are the lead sponsors and honorary co-chairs.
Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute's curator, stated at a press conference, "The title 'Costume Art' refers to the history of the costume institute." Bolton, who selects the theme, added that fashion has "the status of art because of, and not in spite of, its relation to the body." French luxury fashion house Yves Saint Laurent is also sponsoring the exhibit.
Host Committee and Exhibition Dates
The 2026 Met Gala also features a host committee with co-chairs Anthony Vaccarello and Zoe Kravitz, along with members including Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Angela Bassett, Gwendoline Christie, Misty Copeland, Elizabeth Debicki, Lena Dunham, Sam Smith, Teyana Taylor, and more. The 'Costume Art' exhibition will run from May 10, 2026, through January 10, 2027, following the Met Gala on May 4.
