Met Gala 2026 Unveils Theme, Dress Code, Date, and Hosts
The anticipation builds for the Met Gala 2026, one of the most prestigious events in the fashion calendar. Each year, this gala serves as a major fundraiser for the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Celebrities, designers, and fashion enthusiasts gather to showcase captivating sartorial expressions inspired by a unique theme.
Key Details for Met Gala 2026
- Date: May 4, 2026
- Theme: “Costume Art”
- Exhibition Space: 12,000 square feet at Condé M. Nast Galleries
- Announcement Date: November 17, 2025
Understanding the 2026 Theme
On November 17, 2025, Vogue along with the Metropolitan Museum of Art revealed the Met Gala 2026 theme: “Costume Art.” Curator Andrew Bolton notes that this exhibition focuses on the “centrality of the dressed body” within the museum’s extensive collection. The exhibition aims to showcase artworks alongside historical and contemporary garments, exploring the connection between fashion and art throughout history.
Innovative Approach
This year marks a notable change for Bolton as it will be his first theme without a subtitle. He believes that simplifying the theme emphasizes its bold statement. By eliminating unnecessary complexity, Bolton aims to promote an equality of artworks and bodies in the fashion realm.
Upcoming Dress Code Announcement
The official dress code for the Met Gala 2026 will be revealed in the months leading up to the event. Based on past patterns, Vogue typically announces the dress code a few months after the theme introduction. For reference, the dress code for the 2025 Gala was revealed on February 4, 2025.
As the countdown continues, fashion fans eagerly await more details regarding the dress code and additional insights about this iconic evening. Stay tuned to El-Balad for the latest updates on the Met Gala 2026.
