Fashion critics name worst dressed stars at 2026 Met Gala

• Fashion commentators label several A-list ensembles as underwhelming or confusing.
• Ben Stiller and Kim Kardashian face criticism for choices deemed off-theme.
• Analysts suggest many celebrities played it too safe for the artistic theme.
  

The 2026 Met Gala, themed "Fashion Is Art," saw the Metropolitan Museum of Art filled with high-fashion spectacle on Monday night.

While icons like Beyoncé and Blake Lively drew praise, a significant number of celebrities failed to meet the mark, according to fashion critics.

The evening was marked by several technical flaws and thematic departures that left experts disappointed by the lack of sartorial risk-taking on display.

Ashley Graham

The model arrived in a custom Di Petsa gown featuring sheer fabric and a criss-cross bodice. While Graham looked elegant, critics felt the monochromatic look was too safe for "fashion's biggest night."

Ben Stiller

Stiller opted for a navy suit and orange tie in a clear nod to the New York Knicks' playoff run. Observers noted that while the tribute was loyal, it was entirely "out of place" for the Met Gala.

Olivia Wilde

Wilde wore a Thom Browne creation that featured a black satin bodice and white tulle. However, a strange structural cage extending from the back was described as "confusing" and "strange."

Patrick Schwarzenegger

Schwarzenegger took a risk with a cropped leather jacket over a long blazer and corseted trousers. Critics argued the look was "overwhelmed" by too many competing layers and accessories.

Kim Kardashian

Kardashian debuted a vibrant metallic orange bodysuit by Allen Jones. Though the silhouette was eye-catching, critics noted the leather half-skirt failed to match the plastic-like material of the main garment.

Odessa A'zion

The actor wore a Valentino ensemble featuring a waist corset and floral appliques. Analysts felt the combination of sheer tights and a draped jacket "overwhelmed" the star.

Charli XCX

Known for avant-garde style, Charli XCX was criticised for playing it "too safe" in a strapless Saint Laurent gown. Critics hoped for a design more closely inspired by the artistic theme.

Camila Morrone

Morrone wore a Tory Burch satin dress with 7,000 embroidered flowers. However, the black-on-black detailing made the intricate work nearly invisible, rendering the look "predictable."

Cardi B

The musician wore a Marc Jacobs gown with tan satin puffs. While Cardi B appeared to be enjoying herself, reviewers felt the oversized fabric puffs looked "more silly than fashionable."

Rami Malek

Malek donned an all-black Saint Laurent trench coat and a dramatic fuzzy scarf. Critics felt the oversized accessory overshadowed the outfit and failed to relate to the official dress code.

Tyla

The singer’s teal Valentino gown featured gem-encrusted cut-outs and a dramatic slit. Fashion experts felt the look was "disjointed" and lacked the impact of her previous Met Gala appearances.

Serena Williams

Williams wore a metallic Marc Jacobs gown with a high-low hemline. Although the silhouette was stunning, the silver shade was described as looking "more like a costume" than high fashion.

Karlie Kloss

Kloss wore a white gown with a bulbous bottom that some likened to a garlic bulb. Despite the whimsical shape, critics found the monochromatic styling "plain" and "out of place."

Sarah Pidgeon

The actress chose a lime-green Loewe co-ord. While the colour was striking, the silhouette was deemed "predictable" and lacked the necessary drama for such a prestigious red-carpet event.