How Lauren Sánchez Bezos’ Met Gala Dress Claps Back at Fashion Scandal

Lauren Sánchez Bezos delivered with her homage to a scandal.

For the 2026 Met Gala, which has a “Fashion Is Art” theme, a former journalist collaborated with Schiaparelli’s designer, Daniel Roseberry, on an outfit inspired by John Singer Sargent’s famous – and initially shocking – 1883 painting, “Madame X.” The portrait of socialite Madame Pierre Gautreau caused a scandal when it was first shown because of the way her dress strap appeared to slip off her shoulder. The reaction was so strong that Sargent actually repainted the portrait with the strap secured.

Sánchez Bezos was particularly captivated by this detail, telling Vogue that she was fascinated to learn how even a small element, like the detached jeweled strap, had caused such a significant public response.

Looking at the painting now, you see a striking woman. As I see it, the artwork shows how ideas about fashion and what’s considered acceptable have changed throughout history. What we consider ordinary today – like a simple strap on a dress – was once considered shocking, as was the case with Sargent’s ‘Madame X’ when it was first painted.

I was absolutely captivated by the midnight blue Schiaparelli gown she wore to the “Costume Art” benefit! She explained that Daniel Roseberry didn’t just copy a gown from Sargent’s painting, but truly reimagined it, making it uniquely his own creation. It was stunning!

Sánchez Bezos explained that the dress’s shape echoes the painting it’s inspired by, and the delicate pearl and crystal straps are a subtle nod to the original artwork. However, she emphasized that everything else about the design is entirely the work of Daniel, praising his incredible skill and artistry. (You can see photos of all the celebrities at the Met Gala here.)

I was so excited to see MacKenzie, who’s a true inspiration alongside Jeff Bezos as a co-chair of the event! She did have one specific ask when it came to the dress – she wanted it to really cinch in at the waist and show off her figure. It was a lovely detail and made the outfit even more stunning.

She recalled giving Daniel a single piece of direction: ‘Let’s focus on the waist.’

Sánchez Bezos has also faced criticism for her fashion choices, most notably at President Trump’s 2025 Inauguration, where she wore a revealing white outfit consisting of a bustier top, blazer, and pants.

I was so impressed with how she handled the negativity! Instead of directly responding, she brilliantly showed her appreciation for supportive comments on an old Instagram post – one even said, “You absolutely nailed that first look, don’t listen to the haters,” and she liked it! It was the perfect way to acknowledge her fans and subtly shut down the criticism.

For a look at all the stars channeling works of art at the 2026 Met Gala, keep reading.