The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute showcased the theme of “Costume Art” at the 2026 red carpet event, with a designated dress code of “Fashion is Art.” Despite some controversy surrounding the event’s sponsorship by billionaires, the red carpet was a spectacle of fashion. Attendees drew inspiration from various art forms spanning 5,000 years, including classical sculptures and iconic artworks, turning the carpet into a living gallery.
Celebrities like Emma Chamberlain, Sabrina Carpenter, Blackpink’s Lisa, and others embraced the night’s artistic themes with their unique interpretations. From Heidi Klum’s full-body illusion inspired by “The Veiled Vestal” to Beyoncé’s crystalline skeleton gown, each look paid homage to different artistic influences.
Other standout outfits included Madonna’s custom Saint Laurent ensemble inspired by surrealist painter Leonora Carrington, Kendall Jenner’s Zac Posen creation inspired by the “Winged Victory of Samothrace,” and Hailey Bieber’s Saint Laurent look inspired by Yves Saint Laurent and sculptor Claude Lalanne’s 1969 collaboration.
Additionally, Bad Bunny’s transformative prosthetic look, Chase Infiniti’s beaded trompe l’oeil dress, Luke Evans’ Palomo Spain outfit inspired by Tom of Finland, Audrey Nuna’s Robert Wun gown inspired by Jackson Pollock, Angela Bassett’s Prabal Gurung attire inspired by Laura Wheeler Waring, and Rachel Zegler’s Prabal Gurung outfit inspired by Paul Delaroche all added to the night’s artistic flair.
Cardi B’s Marc Jacobs ensemble inspired by Polish artist Hans Bellmer’s surrealist doll works, Hunter Schafer’s Prada look inspired by Gustav Klimt’s “Mäda Primavesi,” and Anok Yai’s Balenciaga outfit inspired by the Black Madonna further showcased the fusion of fashion and art on the 2026 Met Gala red carpet.
