Met gala 2026

The 2026 Met Gala will take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, showcasing the theme ‘Costume Art.’ This marks a significant change as it is Andrew Bolton’s first theme without a subtitle.

The dress code for this prestigious event is ‘Fashion Is Art.’ The exhibition will span nearly 12,000 square feet within the Condé M. Nast Galleries, featuring an array of artworks including paintings, sculptures, and garments from the Costume Institute.

The theme was officially announced by Vogue and the Metropolitan Museum of Art on November 17, 2025. It draws inspiration from the centrality of the dressed body in the museum’s collection—a concept that connects various curatorial departments.

Bolton emphasized this connection when he stated, “What connects every curatorial department and what connects every single gallery in the museum is fashion, or the dressed body.” This reflects a growing recognition of fashion as an art form.

The Met Gala has long been regarded as fashion’s biggest night, with celebrities using the red carpet to make bold statements. In previous years, themes have included more complex titles, but this straightforward approach may open new avenues for creativity.

In Bolton’s words, “We took it out and it was like taking off a corset,” indicating that this new direction allows for greater freedom in expression. The anticipation surrounding this year’s event suggests an abundance of possibilities for attendees.