Paloma Elsesser Debuts Francesco Risso's Bureau of Imagination at 2026 Met Gala
At the 2026 Met Gala celebrating 'Costume Art,' model Paloma Elsesser wore a one-of-a-kind gown by Francesco Risso's new project, Bureau of Imagination. The dress was patchworked from over 30 vintage dresses sourced from eBay, hand-painted and embellished with metal embroideries in Milan. Risso, former creative director of Marni, describes the Bureau as a manufacturing house for objects, with a high-end series called 'Vestige' focused on collaging vintage pieces. Elsesser collaborated closely on the selection of dresses and artist references (Ana Mendieta, Cy Twombly, Joan Miró). The gown was assembled on a mannequin with her measurements. Risso plans to build a studio community and produce various series of objects.
Key facts
- Paloma Elsesser wore a gown by Francesco Risso's Bureau of Imagination at the 2026 Met Gala.
- The gown was made from over 30 vintage dresses sourced from eBay.
- The dress was hand-painted and embellished with metal embroideries in Milan.
- Risso is the former creative director of Marni.
- The Bureau of Imagination is described as a manufacturing house for objects.
- The 'Vestige' series involves collaging vintage pieces.
- Elsesser collaborated on dress selection and artist references including Ana Mendieta, Cy Twombly, and Joan Miró.
- Risso plans to build a studio community and produce multiple object series.
Entities
Artists
- Paloma Elsesser
- Francesco Risso
- Ana Mendieta
- Cy Twombly
- Joan Miró
Institutions
- Bureau of Imagination
- Marni
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
Locations
- New York City
- United States
- Milan
- Italy