Blake Lively's 2026 Met Gala Attendance: Invitation Details, Her Date, and What She Wore

Blake Lively stepped onto the Met Gala red carpet in 2026, marking her first appearance at the prestigious event since 2022. Her attendance sparked considerable speculation, particularly given the timing with her legal settlement with Justin Baldoni, her co-star and director on It Ends With Us.

However, the actress's appearance was far from a last-minute decision. According to reports, Lively's participation had been arranged well in advance, with Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour extending the invitation weeks prior. She would have attended regardless of her legal situation, and the event was not something she needed to purchase her way into, despite claims circulating on social media.

The planned nature of her attendance was underscored by a full feature with Vogue that was prepared ahead of time. This marks Lively's 11th Met Gala appearance overall.

For the occasion, Lively selected an archival Versace dress, pairing it with a Judith Leiber bag and jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz. Speaking to Vogue, she reflected on her return to the event: "It's an honor to attend with Donatella, one that I don't take lightly. I haven't been since giving birth to my fourth child. Every year I am a different version of myself than the last, so to be able to stand in the version of myself that I am today—and all the experiences I've had—in strength and confidence is important to me. So is staying home on the couch with my kids in pajamas. Getting to do both is an honor I will never stop being grateful for."

Lively's husband, Ryan Reynolds, was not present at the gala. Instead, she attended with her cousin William Blake McAlpin, who assisted by carrying the train of her gown. On Instagram Stories, Lively affectionately referred to him as her "sweet angel gorgeous cousin." McAlpin is a model represented by State Management and Eric Cano Management.