Inspired by the Winged Victory of Samothrace
Kendall Jenner is still making a name for herself at the Met Gala, taking inspiration from the “Costume Art” theme through an awe-inspiring ensemble that draws inspiration from the Winged Victory of Samothrace. In her twelfth year attending this renowned annual event, Kendall collaborated with fashion designer Zac Posen, who designed her look and is good friends with her family.
The stunning ensemble draws inspiration from the legendary Greek statue, which greets visitors at the Louvre with its commanding presence. Despite never having collaborated before, Kendall and Zac shared mutual admiration. She fondly recalls Christina Ricci’s 2011 Met Gala dress—the “spider dress”—as a look that’s stayed with her, saying, “It’s so perfect, and she looks so gorgeous and hot.”
Zac Posen, who has a longstanding connection with Kendall’s sister Kim Kardashian, had been eager to work with Kendall for years. When the 2026 theme was announced, he reached out with a heartfelt letter, expressing his desire to create something extraordinary together. Kendall, captivated by the idea, admits she was thinking of Zac when the opportunity arose. “It felt very fated,” she shares, believing the universe played a hand in bringing their vision to life.
Transforming Ancient Art Into Modern Fashion
The designer reimagined the ancient statue with a modern twist, starting with a classic white Gap T-shirt—an iconic staple—then transforming it into a sculptural, glamorous masterpiece. “I took a white Gap T-shirt and started pulling and tweaking it to interpret the sculpture in a contemporary way,” Zac explains. Drawing inspiration from legendary figures of jersey and drapery—Madame Grès, Alaïa, Roy Halston, Vionnet, and others—he crafted a look that balances timeless art with modern elegance.
Kendall was deeply involved throughout the creative process, eager to embody the rippling, windswept qualities of the statue’s tunic. Zac selected a lightweight cotton-viscose blend to create a wet, fluid drapery effect, layering it with satin-faced chiffon and organza to evoke the sculpture’s fluidity and movement. “It’s been incredible to see Zac’s creative process unfold,” Kendall says. “I love being part of every step.”
The base of the dress features a custom leather corset, designed by Abel Cepeda Ljoka and Will Kowall of Seks NY, who 3D-printed Kendall’s body to craft a precise mannequin and bust. Zac draped the fabric over this sculpted foundation, emphasizing the garment’s sculptural details and adding a touch of allure with an exposed corset.
Credits: Renell Medrano
Wings, Movement, and Met Gala Magic
No homage to Nike is complete without wings. Kendall envisioned them as effortless and lightweight, so Zac crafted the wings from airy satin-faced chiffon. There are large scale photo prints which are based on the real wings of the victory of Samothrace which create a sense of grandeur and movement. As Kendall lifts her arms on the red carpet, the wings will fan out dramatically, creating a stunning visual impact.
A seasoned Met Gala attendee, Kendall has her routine down to a science—watching the livestream before arriving, then mingling and soaking in the moment. Yet, even after 12 years, she reveals she still gets pre-event jitters: “I’ll probably need a shot before the carpet,” she laughs.
This year’s look is a perfect blend of ancient art and modern fashion—an unforgettable tribute to the timeless power of costume art.
Written By
Eleanor Vance
Eleanor Vance covers celebrity style, red carpet fashion, and Hollywood trends with insightful and engaging storytelling.
