The Met 2026: Artists referenced in this year's looks
Updates
The first Monday in May arrived and New York City saw 450 guests descend on the 76th Met Gala.
Co-chaired in 2026 by Beyonce, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams and Anna Wintour, the annual charity event invites designers and celebrities to translate a theme into wearable statements, drawing inspiration from painters, sculptors, performers and more.
This year's dress code 'Fashion is Art' saw many references to world renowned artists, some of which you can visit here in London's West End.
The Execution of Lady Jane Grey - Paul Delaroche
Image: National Gallery
Where to see it? The National Gallery - Room 38
The inspiration behind Rachel Zegler's dress by Atelier Prabal Gurung, 'The Execution of Lady Jane Grey' is a blend of history and fashion, inspired by the painting's dramatic mood and emotional story.
Allen Jones RA
Royal Academician and pop artist Allen Jones RA was the artist behind Kim Kardashian's piece. Moulded from Jones's 1969 sculpture Hatstand, the tangerine colour formerly seen on model Kate Moss was used in the piece. Created from fibreglass with the breastplate painted at an auto body shop in Lydd.
Rachel Ruysche - Flowers in a Vase
Image: National Gallery
Where to see it? The National Gallery - Room 28
Naomi Watt's stunned in her floral ensemble by Dior's Jonathan Anderson, taking inspiration from Rachel Ruysche's intricate artworks. Get up close with her work in room 28.
Gustav Klimt
Image: National Gallery
Where to see it? The National Gallery - Room 11
Whilst the exact pieces which inspired Gracie Ambrams' and Hunter Schafer's looks can be found other locations, room 11 at The National Gallery features Klimt's 'Hermine Gallia'. The portrait focuses on refined detail, soft textures and a sense of composed confidence.
Gillian Wearing RA - Spiritual Family
Where to see it? National Portrait Gallery - Room 31
Into the mask worn by Gwendolen Christie was a literal work of art by acclaimed British artist Gillian Wearing RA. Head over to the National Portrait Gallery, and you’ll be acquainted with Wearing’s long fascination with masks in the excellent free display called ‘Spiritual Family’ on until 10 January 2027.
Sir Frederic Leifhton's 'Flaming June'
Frederic, Lord Leighton PRA, Flaming June, c. 1895, oil on canvas, 119.1 x 119.1 cm. Museo de Arte de Ponce. Luis A. Ferré Foundation, Inc.
Where to see it? Previously exhibited at the RA 17 Feb 2024 - 12 Jan 2025
Colleen Allen's design for Chloe Malle took inspiration from one of the most iconic paintings by Frederic Leighton, which was last exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts, the very institution Leighton once presided over as its President for 18 years.