Lena Dunham had a bloody good time at the 2026 Met Gala.
Following the evening’s “Fashion Is Art” theme, actress and designer Alessandro Michele drew inspiration from the 17th-century painting “Judith Slaying Holofernes” by Artemisia Gentileschi. This painting served as the basis for her stunning red Valentino gown, which featured feathers and sequins.
Lena explained to Vogue that she shared her inspiration with Alessandro, but instead of focusing on typical Renaissance elements like clothing or weapons, he became fascinated by a specific detail: a bloodstain on the neck of the figure Holofernes. Apparently, Alessandro’s creative mind works in a unique way.
The designer gave Lena a clear idea of how to represent the artwork for the May 4th “Costume Art” gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, but Lena preferred a more imaginative take.
“That was always my pick,” the 39-year-old explained. “I really appreciate his combination of playfulness, technical ability, humor, and dedication.”
Lena added, “I feel this dress embodies all of it.” (See all the stars at the Met Gala here.)
As soon as Lena Dunham learned she’d be helping host the Costume Institute benefit alongside stars like Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour, she decided she wanted to collaborate with Valentino’s designer, Alessandro.
She told Vogue that she sent him a detailed and heartfelt letter expressing how much his work impacted her. Fortunately, he replied and agreed to collaborate.
Anna asked Lena to join the host committee as a show of support, understanding the physical challenges Lena had been facing. It was Lena’s first time participating in the event since 2019.
Lena described feeling supported, like people were acknowledging her recovery and believing in her ability to succeed. She expressed gratitude for the invitation and a desire to meet the challenge it presented.
For a look at all the stars who rose to the occasion of the Met Gala, keep reading.
in custom Olivier Rousteing and Chopard jewelry.
in Maison Margiela, Briony Raymond, Glenn Spiro and Dyne jewelry.
in custom Allen Jones breastplate, Whitaker Malem skirt and Christian Louboutin shoes.
in custom Zara.
in Marc Jacobs.
in custom Saint Laurent and Belperron jewelry.
in Atelier Versace, Christian Louboutin shoes and Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.
in Dior, Christian Louboutin shoes and Chopard jewelry.
in Michael Kors.
in custom Schiaparelli.
in Stella McCartney.
in custom Mike Marino.
in Saint Laurent and Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
in custom Miu Miu and Jessica McCormack jewelry.
in Valentino and Chillhouse nail polish.
in Robert Wun and Bvlgari jewelry.
in Tom Ford.
in Balenciaga and Henry & Henry jewelry.
in Gap Studio by Zac Posen and Buccellati jewelry.
in Saint Laurent.
in Saint Laurent.
in Prada and Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
in Chanel.
in Dior (Kidman Urban) and Chanel (Kidman).
in Chanel.
in Ashi Studio, Jimmy Choo shoes, Kurt Geiger bag and Mikimoto jewelry.
in Burberry.
in Saint Laurent.
in Michael Kors and Christian Louboutin shoes.
in Thom Browne.
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2026-05-05 22:17