This year’s dress code, 'Fashion is Art', aligns with the Costume Institute’s latest exhibition, 'Costume Art', at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The showcase blends haute couture with fine art, pairing designer pieces with celebrated works, from Yves Saint Laurent creations displayed alongside Vincent van Gogh’s Irises, to John Galliano designs for Maison Margiela exhibited next to classical sculpture.
Despite the glamour, this year’s gala has sparked controversy following the announcement that Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Bezos will serve as lead sponsors and honorary co-chairs. Some activists have criticised the billionaire couple’s involvement, casting a shadow over the otherwise celebratory event.
Still, the Met Gala, traditionally held on the first Monday in May, remains one of the most anticipated nights on the global fashion calendar. Among the headline attendees, Beyonce is set to make her first appearance in a decade, joining fellow co-chairs Venus Williams and Nicole Kidman.
The host committee, led by Anthony Vaccarello and Zoe Kravitz, includes a high-profile mix of talent such as Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Misty Copeland and A'ja Wilson.
Beyond its spectacle, the gala continues to serve a critical purpose as a fundraiser for the museum’s Costume Institute. According to Met CEO Max Hollein, this year’s event has already raised a record USD 42 million, surpassing last year’s USD 31 million total.