Lauren Sánchez’s Met Gala role sparks billionaire fashion debate

The Met Gala is facing criticism over its lead sponsors. Here's what Anna Wintour has to say

Anna Wintour described Lauren Sánchez Bezos as a 'great lover of costume and obviously of fashion' when asked about backlash surrounding the Bezos's role as sponsors of the 2026 Met Gala.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos have been named lead sponsors of the 2026 Met Gala. The event, hosted by New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, will centre on the theme Costume Art. Their partnership with the museum has already sparked debate about billionaire influence in cultural spaces.

Anna Wintour praised Lauren Sánchez Bezos for her passion for fashion and generosity in supporting the exhibition.

The 2026 Met Gala will feature Costume Art as its central theme, with Lauren Sánchez Bezos playing a key role in its development. Alongside French luxury brand Saint Laurent and Condé Nast, she will help promote sustainable fashion trends through the Costume Institute’s exhibition. A gallery space will also be named in honour of Condé Nast’s late founder, following a donation from the media company.

Wintour, who stepped down as Vogue US editor-in-chief earlier this year but remains global editorial director, called Sánchez Bezos a great lover of costume and fashion. She dismissed criticism of the sponsorship, describing the philanthropist as an incredible asset to the museum and the event.

The announcement triggered backlash on social media, with critics questioning the growing influence of billionaires over cultural institutions. Despite this, Wintour emphasised Sánchez Bezos’s enthusiasm for the project and her commitment to the arts.

The 2026 Met Gala will proceed with the Bezos family as its primary backers. The event’s focus on Costume Art and sustainability will be supported by major fashion and media partners. A dedicated gallery at the museum will now bear the name of Condé Nast’s founder, marking the company’s contribution.