The 2026 Met Gala was a spectacle of fashion and drama, with celebrities donning their finest looks, and one designer who stood out was Valentino. The Italian fashion house's creative director, Alessandro Michele, dressed eleven celebrities, showcasing a diverse range of styles that blended theatrics, surface detail, and house codes. Here's a breakdown of some of the standout looks and my personal thoughts on them.
Joe Alwyn: Draped Drama with a Twist
Joe Alwyn's custom Valentino look is a bold departure from his usual style. The pleated, draped neckline shirt, paired with a satin belt and relaxed trousers, is a unique take on the classic Valentino silhouette. The softer styling, including a shift in hairstyle, helps him commit fully to the look. A Hublot timepiece completes the ensemble, adding a touch of luxury. I think this look is a great example of how Michele understands how to dress performers who thrive on presence. It's a showman's energy that aligns with Alwyn's stage persona.
Sombr: Showman Energy
Sombr's Valentino-embroidered cape is a perfect example of Michele's approach to dressing performers. The cape leans into Sombr's stage persona, and the understanding of how to dress performers who thrive on presence is evident. The look feels aligned with who he is on stage, not just for the carpet. I think this is a great example of how Michele's designs can enhance a celebrity's stage presence.
Colman Domingo: Harlequin, But Make It Conflicted
Colman Domingo's custom Valentino look is a clash of ideas. The woven jacket, inspired by the house's harlequin motif, gives me court jester vibes, while the red beaded and sequinned trousers pull in a disco direction. It's a unique take on the classic Valentino silhouette, but I'm lukewarm on it. The reference to Valentino heritage is clear, but the overall look feels a bit mixed up. Boucheron jewels completed his look, adding a touch of luxury.
Odessa A'zion: Turning the Dial Up
Odessa A'zion's custom Valentino look is a risky one, but I think it pays off. The proportions and exposure push the look into riskier territory, which suits the event. The underboob and all add a touch of drama and edge to the ensemble. Pandora Jewelry completed her look, adding a touch of luxury. I think this is a great example of how Michele can create a bold and memorable look.
Dree Hemingway: Couture, Turned All the Way Up
Dree Hemingway's Maison Valentino Specula Mundi Haute Couture look is a dramatic and surreal take on the classic Valentino silhouette. The oversized pleated crinoline collar, edged in gold Lurex with polka-dot detailing, frames her like a theatrical prop. It's a maximalist look that aligns with Michele's vision. Pandora Jewelry completed her look, adding a touch of luxury.
Tessa Thompson: Art, Worn Literally
Tessa Thompson's custom Valentino asymmetrical dress is a clever take on the classic Valentino silhouette. The cut-out hems and neckline mimic a dripping painting, and the detail of paint trailing from her fingers ties it together. It's a unique and memorable look that aligns with Thompson's style. Pandora Jewelry completed her look, adding a touch of luxury.
Tyla: Showgirl Codes
Tyla's Valentino look is a familiar one, but she wears it well. The ornamental detailing on the top half of the look is a perfect match for the satin skirt. The teal Valentino Garavani Révélé pumps are a perfect match for the satin skirt. The only downside for me is the necklace; it feels unnecessary and slightly disrupts the balance. I think this is a great example of how Michele can create a showgirl-inspired look.
Nicole Kidman and Lena Dunham: Feathers First, Everything Else Follows
Nicole Kidman and Lena Dunham both wore red sequins and feathers, but Dunham took it further. The boa-like feather trim framing the entire look amplifies the drama, pushing it into full red carpet spectacle. The Valentino Garavani Rockstud shoes feed into the maximalist energy. I think this is a great example of how Michele can create a maximalist look.
Maude Apatow: Quietly Lost in the Crowd
Maude Apatow's Maison Valentino Specula Mundi Haute Couture look is a beautiful take on the classic Valentino silhouette. The pleated collar frames her beautifully, and the silhouette works. However, on a red carpet filled with bigger statements, it risks being overlooked. Brilliant Earth jewels completed her look, adding a touch of luxury.
Hero Fiennes Tiffin: Classic, with a Twist
Hero Fiennes Tiffin's custom Valentino tux is a sharp and elevated take on the classic Valentino silhouette. The bow-tied collar detail adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. I think this is a great example of how Michele can create a classic look with a twist.
Ahn Hyo-Seop: Tailoring on Max
Ahn Hyo-Seop's custom Valentino look is a maximalist take on the classic Valentino silhouette. The sequinned jacket anchors the look, and the overall style is a bold and memorable one. I think this is a great example of how Michele can create a maximalist look.
In conclusion, the 2026 Met Gala was a showcase of fashion and drama, with Valentino's creative director, Alessandro Michele, delivering a diverse range of styles that blended theatrics, surface detail, and house codes. Each look is a unique take on the classic Valentino silhouette, and I think it's a great example of how Michele can create a memorable and bold look for each celebrity.
