The Met Gala is renowned for its extravagant themes and the tendency of celebrity attendees to flout the dress code. However, at the 2026 gala, a host of stars faithfully adhered to the 'Fashion Is Art' theme, drawing inspiration from some of the world's most iconic artworks.
Kylie Jenner Channels Venus de Milo
Leading the pack was Kylie Jenner in a flesh-colored Schiaparelli gown. The bodysuit featured faux nipples and was paired with a cream-colored satin gown bunched around her hips. While her look was a standout, the art reference was subtle, with fans later noting the dress was inspired by Alexandros of Antioch's famous Venus de Milo sculpture.
Cardi B's Controversial Doll Inspiration
Cardi B faced social media backlash for her bizarre Marc Jacobs gown, which many compared to a colon. The rapper explained that her giant sheer dress with black lace overlay was actually inspired by 'The Doll' by Hans Bellmer, a series of photographs depicting a distorted female body.
Madonna Evokes Surrealist Art
Madonna chose a lesser-known artwork for her inspiration. She arrived in a Saint Laurent creation by Anthony Vaccarello, evoking Leonora Carrington's painting 'The Temptation of Saint Anthony.' The gothic black lace dress was accessorized with a striking ship headpiece and a gold horn, directly replicating elements from Carrington's piece.
Heidi Klum as a Living Statue
Heidi Klum fully embraced the theme, arriving as a living statue. Her Mike Marino costume was reminiscent of Raffaelle Monti's 1847 marble sculpture 'Vestal Virgin.'
Kim Kardashian's Controversial Fembot Look
Kim Kardashian showcased a leggy orange metallic bodysuit by British artist Allen Jones and Whitaker Malem, featuring a custom-molded breast plate. The outfit, inspired by Jones' poster for the 1975 French erotic film 'Maîtresse,' was controversial upon its release in both the U.S. and U.K.
Emma Chamberlain Blends Art and Personal Connection
Emma Chamberlain wowed in a custom Mugler dress hand-painted by artist Anna Deller-Yee. The colorful print drew inspiration from Van Gogh and Munch, but Emma noted her father's work as a painter also influenced the look.
Rachel Zegler Makes a Statement
Rachel Zegler made her third Met Gala appearance in an Atelier Prabal Gurung gown, accessorized with a Jennifer Behr custom silk mask. She confirmed the blindfold referenced Paul Delaroche's 1833 painting 'The Execution of Lady Jane Grey,' drawing parallels to her own experiences with cancel culture. Fans applauded the reference, noting the painting's subject was wrongfully scapegoated.
Gracie Abrams and Hunter Schafer Go Klimt
Gracie Abrams chose golden Chanel for her second Met Gala, working with Matthieu Blazy to create a gown inspired by Gustav Klimt. Hunter Schafer's custom Prada look was also directly inspired by Klimt's seven-foot painting 'Mäda Primavesi.'
Ben Platt Represents the Men
Ben Platt stood out in a custom hand-painted and embroidered Tanner Fletcher suit, inspired by Georges Seurat's 1884 painting 'A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.'
