Filipino style experts discuss the best (and worst) looks from the 2026 Met Gala

Speaking of alien-like, Alex Consani in Gucci was out-of-this-world chic. Now that’s a complete look—from the bleached brows to the bleached nipples. The impeccably placed black plume feathers looked like they either engulfed her or spat her out. I was surprised when I read it was Gucci.

Madonna in Saint Laurent also deserves a mention because how could she ever commit halfway? She looked like a virgin bride with a crow’s nest for a tiara and four grim forest fairies carrying her veil and tending to her every whim. Only Madonna could pull that off.

Least favourite look: Lauren Sánchez. I have a list of reasons twice as long, but I’ll restrain myself. I’ve read the research and story behind the dress. I have context. Still, no. Honestly, her space suit would’ve made a stronger impact here compared to this navy number.

More from Tatler: 2026 Met Gala: 10 Asian celebrities who nailed the ‘Fashion Is Art’ dress code

This year felt like the Met Gala was finally finding its way back to its prime era. Having Beyoncé as a co-chair after years of absence immediately gave the night more weight and excitement. What I liked most was the balance between true icons and the newer generation of celebrities who actually understand fashion as a form of storytelling.

More importantly, the exhibit itself feels culturally relevant and unexpectedly timely based on the previews and images released. The strongest Met Galas are always the ones where the fashion, celebrity casting and exhibition theme all feel connected, and this year seems much closer to that standard again.

Favourite looks: Aside from Beyoncé in Olivier Rousteing’s post-Balmain era piece, especially with Blue Ivy Carter accompanying her in Balenciaga, I really loved Kendall Jenner’s white Gap Studio look constructed from actual cotton shirts. It was intelligent fashion without looking overly conceptual, which is difficult to pull off. It still felt wearable and modern while fully committing to the theme.

Sabrina Carpenter, wearing Dior by Jonathan Anderson, was another standout for me because it felt witty and self-aware without losing elegance.

I also have to mention Emma Chamberlain. Even though she arrived early and hosted, her custom Mugler was one of the looks that actually embodied the theatricality I expect from the Met Gala. It felt intentional, dramatic and memorable.

And of course, Madonna remains unmatched when it comes to committing to the occasion. Her Saint Laurent look reminded everyone why she is still one of the few true fashion provocateurs left on that carpet.

Least favourite looks: Fashion is always subjective, but the looks that personally did not leave much of an impression on me were Gigi Hadid, Charli XCX and Amanda Seyfried’s.

See also: Jisoo debuts, Rihanna rules: 2026 Met Gala beauty—from prosthetic hair to crystal lids—channels wearable art

I do not think any of them looked bad necessarily, but for the Met Gala, I always look for either a strong narrative, a surprising silhouette or a memorable fashion moment. In their case, maybe my expectations were simply higher because I know they are capable of delivering much more impactful looks.

I found this year’s red carpet theme, “Fashion is Art”, to be a breath of fresh air since it’s more straight to the point than previous themes. The red carpet felt more like a gallery opening, and there was a real emphasis on texture, brushwork and silhouettes that blurred the line between a garment and a sculpture.

Favourite look: Without a doubt, Emma Chamberlain in custom Mugler. I always anticipate her red carpet looks, and this hand-painted Mugler was breathtaking. It felt like a literal canvas coming to life. The mix of the vibrant, melting colours of the dress was just perfect and photographs very well too.

Least favourite look: I’d have to say Rosè in Saint Laurent. While she looked undeniably stunning (and I do love Blackpink), it felt like a safe play. I was hoping for something that pushed the envelope more since she’s always in Black minimalist looks on the red carpet.

This year’s Met Gala proved that fashion still thrives when imagination takes centre stage. From Emma Chamberlain’s otherworldly Mugler moment to Madonna’s haunting Saint Laurent entrance, the night sparked plenty of debate across fashion circles and social media feeds alike.

What was your favourite look from the Met Gala 2026 red carpet?

NOW READ

Asia’s Most Stylish 2025: meet the Filipino fashion icons of elegance, heritage and reinvention

The Lohanaissance is real: Lindsay Lohan serves 8 ultra-stylish looks for ‘Freakier Friday’

Red carpet royalty: the Dakota Johnson style evolution