Met Gala 2026 Debuts: Karan Johar Jisoo and More – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
New York City – The 2026 Met Gala unfolded on May 4 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where attendees interpreted the dress code “Fashion Is Art” through bold, conceptual ensembles.[1][2] While established stars drew attention, a roster of first-time guests captured the spotlight with innovative takes on the theme. Indian filmmaker Karan Johar and BLACKPINK member Jisoo stood out among the newcomers, signaling a global infusion of fresh talent into fashion’s premier event.
Karan Johar’s Tribute to Indian Heritage
Filmmaker Karan Johar made his long-awaited Met Gala debut in a custom Manish Malhotra creation that channeled the paintings of Raja Ravi Varma.[1][3] The ensemble featured a black bandhgala jacket adorned with golden zardozi borders and intricate hand-painted details, including an ethereal woman’s portrait. Sleek black trousers paired with a dramatic cape-style jacket completed the look, embroidered with motifs of deities, lotuses, pillars, and swans in gold, red, and black tones.
Johar credited designer Manish Malhotra for transforming him into a living canvas, a nod to the evening’s artistic directive.[3] Malhotra himself attended, showcasing Indian craftsmanship through dori, zardozi, chikankari, and kasab embroidery on an architectural cape over a bandhgala. The designer’s presence underscored Bollywood’s growing footprint at the gala.
Jisoo Marks K-Pop Milestone
BLACKPINK’s Jisoo arrived for her first Met Gala in a custom strapless pink and silver sequin Dior gown by Jonathan Anderson.[1] Alternative accounts described the bodycon studded pink dress with a peplum top, accented by a choker, diamond earrings, rings, and bold winged eyeliner.[3] Her appearance completed the set for BLACKPINK members, following Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa’s prior visits.
The gown’s shimmering layers evoked wearable sculpture, aligning seamlessly with the theme’s emphasis on fashion as high art. Jisoo’s poised red carpet presence highlighted K-pop’s rising influence in global style circles.
Hudson Williams and ‘Heated Rivalry’ Stars Impress
Hudson Williams, co-star in the series “Heated Rivalry,” debuted in a custom Balenciaga look blending black and pale blue tones.[1] The two-piece ensemble included a matador-inspired structure with black jewelled embellishments on a blue jacket and trousers, plus a sweeping cape for dramatic effect.[4] Dramatic “Black Swan”-style makeup added a performance-art edge.
Co-star Connor Storrie complemented the moment in a Saint Laurent suit jacket over a polka-dot halter top and black pants, later shedding the jacket to reveal arm-baring flair.[5][4] Their coordinated yet distinct styles earned praise for blending classic tailoring with avant-garde twists, marking Hollywood’s next generation.
A Wave of Diverse First-Timers
Beyond the headliners, other debutants brought eclectic interpretations to the carpet. The evening featured a mix of actors, musicians, athletes, and family members stepping into the spotlight for the first time.[2]
| Debutant | Outfit/Designer | Notable Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Alysa Liu | Louis Vuitton deep-red gown | Strapless bodice, ruffled hem; post-Olympics vibe[4] |
| Blue Ivy Carter | Balenciaga all-white | Bubble-hem skirt, popped collar sweater[4] |
| Stevie Nicks | Custom Zara by John Galliano | Voluminous skirt with tulle roses, top hat[4] |
| Sunday Rose | Chanel | With mother Nicole Kidman[2] |
| Karina (AESPA) | Custom Prada | White satin dress, black cape; Hanbok reference[1] |
These newcomers, from Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu to music icon Stevie Nicks, demonstrated the gala’s role in elevating emerging and unexpected names.[5] Asian talents like AESPA’s Karina and Ningning further diversified the lineup with culturally infused designs.
New Blood Energizes Fashion’s Night
First-time attendees received what many call Anna Wintour’s stamp of approval, a rite of passage in elite fashion circles.[5] Their contributions ranged from heritage homages to sculptural experiments, proving the theme’s versatility. As the night blended tradition with innovation, these debuts hinted at evolving tastes ahead. The 2026 gala affirmed that fresh perspectives keep the event’s artistic pulse beating strong.
