Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's 2026 Met Gala Look Inspired by Sargent's Portrait of Madame X

For the 2026 Met Gala, model and entrepreneur Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wore a burnt umber gown by Burberry, inspired by John Singer Sargent's scandalous 1884 portrait of Madame X (Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau). The painting, which caused such outrage in Paris that Sargent repainted the fallen strap and relocated to the UK for a year, is among Huntington-Whiteley's favorite artworks. She collaborated with Burberry's chief creative officer Daniel Lee on the look, which features a crystal-and-beaded heart-shaped bodice and draped silk tulle skirt, aiming to capture a "sense of quiet confidence and sensuality." The Met museum acquired the painting a century ago. Huntington-Whiteley also shared her pre-event rituals, including facials with skin expert Cynthia Rivas, hydration, and a calm atmosphere. Her makeup by Francesca Abrahamovitch focused on fresh, sculpted skin and pulled-back hair. She attended the Tiffany & Co. Blue Book Gala earlier in the week.