Costume Art: The 2026 Met Gala’s Standout Designers
Luxury brands that redefined the boundary between fashion and art
Image courtesy of Via Molina / Unsplash
At this year’s Met Gala, a diverse lineup of designers channeled their artistic vision through avant-garde pieces worn by celebrities in attendance. Many creatives not only followed but vividly embodied the abstract “Fashion is Art” dress code, while others leaned towards more traditional interpretations.
Perhaps the most compelling theme to date, “Costume Art” enabled designers to experiment with innovative and intricate garments, solidifying the premise that fashion is undeniably art. Designers used the theme to push boundaries within the industry, while still remaining true to their own aesthetic and influences.
Rihanna in Maison Margiela Artisanal
Image courtesy of @fentybeauty
One of the night’s most anticipated arrivals, Rihanna’s custom made Maison Margiela Artisanal dress, designed by Glen Martens, served as a masterclass in three dimensional form. The sculptural look occupies space in a way that standard, two dimensional garments cannot do. Her artistic glam and the intricate details of the bodice accomplish a celestial aesthetic while maintaining its architectural integrity.
Sabrina Carpenter in Dior
Image courtesy of @sabrinacarpenter
Crafted entirely from celluloid film strips, Sabrina’s Dior gown proved that fashion, much like art, can be entirely abstract. Accentuated by an Old Hollywood headpiece, the ensemble blended film noir drama with her signature baby-doll look. Although this silhouette is a familiar style for Sabrina, Dior ensured the execution felt fresh and innovative.
Emma Chamberlain in Mulgar
Image courtesy of @emmachamberlain
Quite literally the embodiment of the “Costume Art” theme, Emma Chamberlain stepped out in custom Mulgar—an incredible contemporary interpretation of an archival “Chimère” gown. Visually representing a paint-dripping canvas, the array of colors and textures offered significant depth without overpowering Emma. Her look struck the perfect balance between avant garde freshness and technical precision.
Lisa in Robert Wun
Image courtesy of @lalalalisa_m
Lisa’s custom creation by Robert Wun captivated the crowd with its intricate structural silhouette. The sheer gown was ethereal in its own right, but the addition of unconventional arm-like headpiece extensions transformed the outfit into a wearable sculpture. The dress and veil, adorned with over a thousand Swarovski crystals, provided a stark, beautiful contrast to the bone-like structure of the garment.
By Bree Robinson
