New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art hosted its annual Costume Institute benefit gala on 4 May 2026, drawing hundreds of celebrities from film, music, and sports. The theme, 'Costume Art,' invited guests to explore the boundary between fashion and wearable sculpture. Yet the evening was shadowed by a notable absence: several high-profile figures chose to skip the event in protest of its sponsorship by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, Laura Sánchez-Bezos.
Despite the boycott, the red carpet was a parade of opulence. Among the most anticipated arrivals were Rihanna and A$AP Rocky, who appeared in coordinated ensembles that blended avant-garde tailoring with dramatic silhouettes. Beyoncé arrived with Jay-Z and their daughter Blue Ivy Carter, the family making a rare joint appearance that drew intense media attention.
Standout Looks from the Night
Katy Perry made a playful statement with a ball gown that incorporated a large, ornate mask, evoking themes of disguise and theatricality. Kendall Jenner opted for a shimmering, metallic column dress that caught the light with every step. Laura Harrier chose a gown that seemed to be woven from liquid gold, while Tessa Thompson exited the Mark Hotel in a structured, architectural piece that hinted at the 'Costume Art' theme.
Cardi B, accompanied by Marc Jacobs and Char Defrancesco, wore a voluminous creation that required careful navigation on the museum's steps. Anderson .Paak brought a touch of musical flair with a suit that incorporated embroidered instruments, and Welsh actor Luke Evans represented European cinema in a sharp, tailored tuxedo with subtle embellishments.
The event also served as a platform for designers to showcase their most ambitious work. Many looks referenced historical costume, from Elizabethan ruffs to Japanese kimono-inspired draping, underscoring the global influences that shape contemporary fashion. The 'Costume Art' theme allowed for a broader interpretation than in previous years, with some attendees treating the red carpet as a living gallery.
For those who could not attend, the gala remains a key moment in the fashion calendar, generating conversations about the intersection of art, commerce, and celebrity. The protest over Bezos's involvement, however, raises questions about the ethics of such sponsorships, a topic that is likely to persist in future editions.
As the night unfolded, the Metropolitan Museum's steps became a stage for both celebration and critique. The best looks of the evening were those that managed to balance spectacle with substance, reminding viewers that fashion can be both a personal expression and a cultural commentary.
