On a gorgeous first Monday in May, Swarovski Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert took to the Met Gala carpet. She arrived in a sparkling deconstructed gown alongside KPop Demon Hunters star Ejae, who was draped in sculptural Crystal Mesh. Co-chair Venus Williams also wore Swarovski—the look referenced her own portrait by Robert Pruitt, Venus Williams, Double Portrait (2022). 

Reflecting the night’s “Costume Art” theme, Engelbert’s gown was a testament to the artist’s process. A Crystal Mesh apron rested atop a nude corset with visible boning, and organza flowed from structured underpinning. A Swarovski swan headpiece finished the look.

Ejae stepped out for her Met Gala debut in a timeless high-neck look celebrating beauty and cultural heritage. For accessories, the “Golden” singer wore matching Swarovski binyeos, a style of Korean hairpin. Williams, who co-chaired the night alongside Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Anna Wintour, opted for sparkling onyx crystals. Cher also completed her 2026 Met Gala look with Swarovski jewelry.

Through references to both specific artworks and design as a process, Engelbert’s sketches came to life on the carpet, aligning with the attendees’ personal histories as well as the night’s official theme.

See the meticulous making process unfold in a series of exclusive behind-the-scenes images below.