Blake Lively shines in ‘sunrise and sunset’ gown at Met Gala 2026 after Justin Baldoni settlement
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Blake Lively made her return to the Met Gala on May 4 in NYC, appearing relaxed and in high spirits. Her appearance comes after a long-running feud with her 'It Ends With Us' director and co-star Justin Baldoni.
The conflict between the two lasted around 18 months and involved legal disputes. It was resolved just before their New York trial, which had been scheduled for May, bringing the matter to a close.
For the red carpet, Lively wore a vintage Versace gown from 2006. She shared that the outfit was inspired by “a sunrise and a sunset and watercolor,” giving it a soft, artistic look.
She is known for creating standout moments at the Met Gala. In 2022, she wore a gown inspired by the Statue of Liberty that transformed on the carpet. The dress revealed a copper-toned train, reflecting the statue’s aged finish.
Blake Lively stuns in Versace gown inspired by sunrise and sunset
The dress featured intricate detailing inspired by 18th-century Venetian Rococo art. The fitted gown was adorned with gemstones in shades of pink, yellow, peach, and lilac, while the skirt flowed into a long, sunset-like train.
The 'The Age of Adaline' actress completed the look with a sparkling Judith Leiber handbag, designed with artwork created by her and Ryan Reynolds’ four children.
Her jewelry included bold pieces by Lorraine Schwartz, such as drop earrings featuring pink sapphire, kunzite, and diamonds, along with a large yellow diamond ring and a pink sapphire ring.
Talking about her look, Lively said, “What made this piece ‘the one,’ is that the gown is the color of both a sunrise and a sunset, representing so much beauty, warmth and the many layers and nuances in the closing of one day and the beginning of another.”
As per Vogue, she also shared how meaningful the moment was for her, adding, “It’s an honor to attend... Every year, I am a different version of myself... to stand in the version of myself that I am today... in strength and confidence is important to me.”
Blake Lively attends Met Gala after settling Justin Baldoni dispute
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni settle lawsuit over acrimonious It Ends With Us production
— ˶˃ News Reader Cat 📰🗞️NO DMs˂˶ (@typocatCAv2) May 5, 2026
Settlement details were not revealed in the agreement that put an end to a highly anticipated trial before it began. -The Guardian pic.twitter.com/qaDW7T9ek6
The legal case tied to 'It Ends With Us' has officially been resolved, allowing both sides to move forward. In a joint statement, they described the film as “a source of pride.” They also acknowledged that the process was difficult at times.
The attorneys noted that there were real challenges and said the concerns raised by Lively “deserved to be heard.”
The statement further emphasized a shared commitment to maintaining a respectful environment. “We remain firmly committed to workplaces free of improprieties and unproductive environments. It is our sincere hope that this brings closure and allows all involved to move forward constructively and in peace, including a respectful environment online.”