The Met Gala is always one of my favourite nights in fashion. It is the one evening where celebrities, designers and stylists really get to push the boundaries and create something artistic and memorable.
Here is a look at this year’s theme, a little bit of Met Gala history, and ten outfits that I absolutely loved.
The 2026 Met Gala Theme
The 2026 theme was Costume Art, with the dress code Fashion Is Art.
I loved this theme because it gave celebrities so much freedom to interpret fashion creatively. Some people leaned into historical art references, others treated their outfits like sculptures, and some designers created pieces that genuinely looked like they belonged in a gallery.
The History of the Met Gala
If you’re not familiar with the Met Gala, it actually started back in 1948 as a fundraiser for the Costume Institute.
Today it has become one of the most exclusive events in the fashion world. The gala launches the Costume Institute’s annual exhibition and raises millions for the museum each year.
Much of the modern Met Gala we know today is thanks to Anna Wintour, who has overseen the event since the mid 90s and turned it into the global fashion moment it is now.
My 10 Favourite Looks From The 2026 Met Gala
There were so many incredible outfits this year, but these were the ones that really stood out to me.
Emma Chamberlain in Mugler
Emma Chamberlain delivered one of the most on-theme looks of the night in a custom Mugler gown that blurred the line between fashion and fine art. The sculpted, second-skin design featured painterly textures and hand-painted details, giving the impression that the dress itself was a living canvas. With its dramatic silhouette and artistic finish, the look embodied the “Fashion Is Art” theme perfectly, transforming Chamberlain into a walking piece of artwork on the Met steps.
Chase Infiniti in Thom Browne
Chase Infiniti embraced avant-garde tailoring in a striking Thom Browne ensemble that leaned into the brand’s signature theatrical approach. The look combined sharp structure with unexpected proportions, creating a sculptural silhouette that felt both fashion-forward and conceptual. With its precise tailoring and bold presence, Infiniti’s outfit captured the artistic spirit of the evening while showcasing Thom Browne’s distinctive interpretation of modern red-carpet dressing.
Nicole Kidman in Chanel
As one of the evening’s co-chairs, Nicole Kidman made a dramatic entrance in a custom Chanel gown designed by Matthieu Blazy. The deep red sequined dress featured feathered detailing at the sleeves and hips, adding movement and glamour while nodding to the theatrical elegance often seen in classic paintings. Paired with sleek hair and refined jewellery, the look felt both timeless and striking, proving once again that Kidman knows how to deliver a memorable Met Gala moment.
Léna Mahfouf in Burc Akyol
French influencer Léna Mahfouf made a bold statement in a sculptural design by Burc Akyol. The look featured a draped skirt with dramatic cut-outs and a striking metallic bustier shaped like sculpted hands, turning the outfit into a literal piece of wearable art. Keeping her makeup soft with pale blue eyeshadow and minimal jewellery allowed the architectural design of the garment to take centre stage, making it one of the evening’s most daring interpretations of the theme.
The 2026 Met Gala once again proved why it remains fashion’s most anticipated red carpet. From sculptural couture and theatrical tailoring to elegant interpretations of classic glamour, the evening showcased how designers and celebrities continue to push the boundaries of creativity. Whether through bold silhouettes, intricate craftsmanship, or artistic storytelling, this year’s looks highlighted fashion’s power as a true form of art.
Written by Emma Rostron, a Fashion Blogger and Personal Stylist, dedicated to helping women discover their unique style and empowering them to shine with confidence.
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