Last year, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s iconic stairway became something close to a living exhibition, charged with cultural weight and dressed in extraordinary craft. The theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” with its dress code “Tailored for You,” gave attendees a framework that demanded intention.
Sharply cut suits, heritage fabrics, and bold silhouettes paid homage to the long, proud lineage of Black dandyism while making room for something entirely contemporary. The men delivered a masterclass in elegant restraint.
The women answered with equally considered, concept-driven looks. Nobody came to simply show up.
Met Gala 2026 Rewind
Among the most talked-about moments was the Indian diaspora’s presence on those steps. From Shah Rukh Khan to Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the turnout felt like a genuine cultural arrival rather than a token gesture, and the fashion world took notice. As this year’s Gala approaches, anticipation around Indian representation is building again. Karan Johar has confirmed his Met debut, making him one of the most awaited arrivals of the night. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are expected to attend, as are Isha Ambani, Natasha Poonawalla and Ananya Birla. Priyanka Chopra Jonas may sit this one out. Before the new looks roll in, here is a look back at what our favourites wore last year.
Shah Rukh Khan in Sabyasachi
The King of Bollywood’s Met debut felt personal in a way that red carpet fashion rarely does. His Sabyasachi creation infused meaning into every detail, from pendants engraved with his initials to a floor-length trench worn over a low-cut shirt that struck a balance between grandeur and ease. The tiger-headed cane was not a prop. It was a proclamation.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Balmain
White with black polka dots sounds simple until you see it worn like this. Priyanka’s Balmain dress carried echoes of classic Hollywood and old Parisian chic, but a 241-carat emerald Bulgari necklace made sure nothing about the look read as understated. A wide-brimmed structured hat added the kind of drama that the Met steps were made for. Playful and polished in equal measure.
Kiara Advani in Gaurav Gupta
Kiara was making her Met debut while expecting her first child, and Gaurav Gupta met that moment beautifully. A sculptural black gown with a flowing white silk train was paired with a gleaming gold breastplate that framed her bump with intention and pride. It was armour in the most poetic sense, strength made visible, beauty worn deliberately.
Diljit Dosanjh in Prabal Gurung
No one at last year’s Gala told a more specific story through clothing. Diljit’s ivory sherwani arrived beneath a gold-embroidered cloak that traced the outline of Punjab, elegant and powerful all at once. The jewelled turban crowned the look in a way that shifted the entire mood from red carpet to royal procession. A Cartier watch and layered diamond necklace were the finishing notes on an ensemble that felt genuinely historic.
Also Read: Isha Ambani Wears A Living Map Of Indian Textiles For Pre-Met Dinner
