The 2026 Met Gala will see a significant shift in its planning as Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos take on key behind-the-scenes roles. Announced on November 17, 2023, they have been named the main donors for the upcoming event, which will feature the theme “Costume Art.” This theme aligns with a new exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
Their involvement extends beyond mere financial support; the couple is now integral to the planning team, helping to shape the gala and cover its operational costs. They join other notable contributors, including fashion powerhouse Saint Laurent and the media company Condé Nast, ensuring that the event maintains its prestigious status.
The exhibition, which opens on May 10, 2026, and runs until January 10, 2027, will celebrate the history and evolution of costume design. Proceeds from the gala will benefit the Met’s Costume Institute, reinforcing the event’s dual purpose of glamour and philanthropy.
This iteration of the Met Gala holds particular significance as it marks a transitional moment for Vogue, with Chloe Malle stepping in as editor-in-chief after the lengthy tenure of Anna Wintour. Malle’s fresh vision will influence the gala as some of the fashion industry’s most prominent figures gather to celebrate creativity and artistry.
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez first appeared together at the Met Gala in 2024 under the theme “Garden of Time.” At that event, Sánchez dazzled in a custom gown by Oscar de la Renta, inspired by the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany, while Bezos opted for a classic black tuxedo. Since going public with their relationship in early 2019, the couple has developed a strong partnership, both personally and professionally.
Their increasing prominence in the fashion world reflects their journey from a newly public couple to influential figures within high-profile events like the Met Gala. The 2026 gala not only showcases their evolution but also highlights their commitment to supporting the arts and fashion community.
