Behind the Scenes at the 2026 Met Gala: The Unsung Heroes Handling the Trains

A Vogue slideshow highlights the train handlers at the 2026 Met Gala, who assist celebrities with their elaborate gowns. Approximately 450 guests attend the event, with nearly as many staff working behind the scenes. Handlers escort stars from the tunnel to the red carpet, straightening and carrying trains. Blake Lively returned with a 13-foot train requiring four handlers to exit her Sprinter van. Madonna's Saint Laurent look had seven attendants trailing her from car to steps. Condé Nast's SVP of Talent, Alison Ward Frank, and the Karla Otto team were on standby to prevent train mishaps. The slideshow features 16 photos by Phil Oh.