Rihanna closed the Met Gala on May 5, 2026, with a breathtaking gown that took over 1,380 hours to create. This marked a significant moment for her and A$AP Rocky after a tumultuous year. The event took place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and featured a theme centered around ‘Costume Art’.
The evening began with Venus Williams co-chairing the event. She wore a black sparkling gown and expressed her excitement, saying, “I dey dance inside.” Beyoncé made her first Met Gala appearance in ten years, showcasing her presence on the red carpet.
Key celebrity appearances:
- Rihanna dazzled in a gown featuring over 115,000 jewels.
- A$AP Rocky sported a custom pink Chanel ensemble.
- Kendall Jenner wore a GapStudio dress inspired by the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
- Heidi Klum’s outfit drew inspiration from Raffaele Monti’s Veiled Vestal statue.
The Met Gala serves as an annual fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute. The funds raised contribute significantly to maintaining and expanding the museum’s collection.
A$AP Rocky praised Rihanna’s gown, stating she is both “the art and the artist.” His admiration highlighted the creative effort behind her stunning look. The couple now has five children together, adding personal significance to their appearances.
This year’s event not only celebrated fashion but also emphasized artistic expression through clothing. The combination of celebrity fashion and fundraising efforts continues to make the Met Gala a pivotal moment in the cultural calendar.