For the 2026 Met Gala, “Fashion is Art,” Camila Mendes stepped onto the steps in a custom mahogany couture gown by Manish Malhotra — a look rooted in the painted world of Amrita Sher-Gil, one of India’s most iconic and emotionally charged artists. Conceived as a continuum of dry brushstrokes, the French chiffon gown was entirely hand-ruched, each fold placed with precision to create a painterly, sculptural effect. Mendes takes V into an exclusive behind-the-scenes of her look.

What makes this Met Gala particularly special or exciting for you?

This year felt especially meaningful because I had the opportunity to collaborate with Manish Malhotra. He’s such an iconic voice in Indian fashion, and it felt exciting to bring his work onto a global stage like the Met.

Why are you excited to collaborate with Manish Malhotra this season?

Working with Manish and his team was such a collaborative experience. They came in with a very clear vision inspired by the women depicted in Amrita Sher-Gil’s paintings, and it felt like we’re creating something that paid homage to this iconic Indian artist, while also honoring my own unique style and taste.

What makes this look particularly special for you?

The color immediately stood out to me because it’s not commonly worn on red carpets, and the uniqueness of it intrigued me. Also the way the fabric was draped across my shoulder and wrapped around my arm felt very sculptural, almost like the dress was interacting with my body. The dress code this year was “fashion is art” and this idea of the dressed body, and I felt like Manish and his team understood how to dress my body in a way that was incredibly artistic.

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s event?

Honestly, seeing Beyoncé in the flesh. She was sitting at the table next to me and it truly felt like I was in the presence of royalty.

Any key notes on the beauty look you want to highlight?

Jen Tioseco wanted to keep it monochromatic so she pulled from the burgundy and mahogany tones of the dress for the makeup. We liked the idea of a softly smoky look that still felt fresh and light. For hair, Lauren Palmer Smith and I decided to keep it clean and off the face since I was already draped in so much fabric. That way the dress could really have its moment.

What jewelry are you wearing and what makes it unique?

I’m wearing Manish Malhotra jewelry, which really completed the look for me. The piece on my head is actually a necklace and we originally planned to wear it as such, but then the night before the event, Manish suggested styling it as a tiara, and that’s when everything clicked. Lauren did such a flawless job at hiding the necklace chain behind my hair.