Most Wanted

On the first Monday in May, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York plays host to one of the most mesmerizing red-carpet events on the calendar: the Met Gala. Undoubtedly fashion’s biggest night out, the annual event draws the industry’s leading luminaries and has consistently delivered some of the most unforgettable looks of all time. This year’s dress code, ‘Fashion Is Art’, invites guests – with Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Zoë Kravitz and Sabrina Carpenter all expected to be in attendance – to explore the many ways the worlds of fashion and art intersect. As we count down to the evening, we couldn’t resist putting together our own take on the theme.

“From the Balenciaga archives to the latest collections from Dilara Findikoglu and Rick Owens, many designers make a strong case for fashion as art,” says NET-A-PORTER junior shopping editor Millie Parry. “I’d love to see Nicolas Ghesquière’s spring 2006 collection for Balenciaga on the Met Gala red carpet. The intricate ornamentation on those pieces is remarkable – they’re museum-worthy,” she adds.

While accessing rare archival designs takes a little know-how, anyone with an eye for aesthetics will appreciate Sharon Wauchob’s exquisite detailing and innovative use of materials. The London-based designer’s oeuvre is encapsulated by the artful drapes and folds of the ‘Sata’ blouse, which will certainly be the focal point of any outfit. Pair yours with indigo denim and statement accessories that could easily be mistaken for objets d’art, such as Dries Van Noten’s expressive heels and Alaïa’s aptly named ‘Sculptural Minaudiere’ resin clutch, for gallery openings or a night at the museum.

Alternatively, for a more formal, Met Gala-inspired moment, look to Tove’s plum-colored ‘Gai’ gown – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive from the spring/summer 2026 runway. A masterclass in modern draping, it’s expertly gathered at the shoulders and waist, echoing the classical silhouettes of the peplos or chiton seen on Ancient Greek sculptures and vases. Paired with a dazzling display of diamonds – think David Yurman’s ‘Cable’ 18-karat gold bracelet and Ilaria Icardi’s carnelian ring – it’s an elegant choice for your next black-tie benefit. Just add Sophie Buhai’s satin pouch and sleek black pumps from Calvin Klein Collection before stepping out for the evening. Worn together or separately, for an injection of everyday glamour, these are Met-worthy pieces that are sure to get the fashion and art crowd’s approval.

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