Met Gala 2026: Sarah Paulson sports ‘weird’ $1 bill as blindfold in symbolic red carpet look

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: A bold fashion choice at the 2026 Met Gala quickly turned into a heated online debate, with Sarah Paulson finding herself at the center of it.

On Monday, May 4, the actress stepped onto the iconic red carpet wearing a dramatic gray tulle gown paired with a striking and controversial accessory: a one-dollar bill used as a blindfold.

The look, which Paulson revealed was titled “the one percent,” was meant to make a statement. But instead of applause, it sparked criticism, confusion, and plenty of eye-rolls online.

Sarah Paulson’s ‘one percent’ look sparks debate

Paulson’s outfit, designed by indie label Matieres Fecales, was clearly meant to carry a message.

The one-dollar bill mask appeared to symbolize wealth and inequality, a bold concept, especially at an event known for its exclusivity and luxury.

During her time on the carpet, Paulson leaned into the idea behind her look, framing it as commentary on the ultra-rich. But many people watching weren’t convinced.

The Met Gala, after all, is one of the most expensive events in the world, with tickets reportedly costing around $100K. That context made her message feel off to some viewers.

Online reactions poured in almost instantly. One user wrote, "Weird"

Another said, “This is the worst one at the Met Gala. Sarah Paulson’s dollar bill mask is some sort of protest against the 1% of which she is a part. If you want to protest the rich don’t go to an event that costs $100k per ticket. And give your $12m net worth away.”

Another added, “It's a microcosm of how out of touch they are”

Critics call out hypocrisy at Bezos-backed gala

The backlash didn’t stop at the outfit itself. Many pointed out the irony of making a statement about wealth inequality at an event backed by billionaire sponsors.

The 2026 Met Gala is being led by Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, who are serving as honorary co-chairs.

That connection only fueled the criticism surrounding Paulson’s look. There was also criticism about how closely her look matched the theme.

This year’s theme, “Fashion Is Art,” encouraged designers and celebrities to explore the human body as a canvas including aging, anatomy, and form.

Fans defend Sarah Paulson’s bold choice

Despite the backlash, not everyone was critical. Paulson’s fans quickly came to her defense, praising her for taking risks and bringing conversation to the red carpet.

Some even called the look “very Met Gala,” applauding her for embracing the artistic side of the event rather than playing it safe.

One user on X commented, saying "Sarah Paulson: Hit. Conceptually unhinged, but a hit. A grey tulle ballgown the size of a small studio flat, white opera gloves, a dollar bill taped across her eyes, blood-red lip. This is performance art, not a dress. The dollar bills are doing actual commentary, blindfolded by money, the gown is haute couture excess, and she’s standing on the Met carpet (literal cost-of-entry: $75K) staring back at us through cash. Whether it’s intentional satire or just an Avant-garde mood, it reads as the only fit on the carpet that’s actually saying something about the carpet. Costume Art doesn’t always mean pretty. Sometimes it means uncomfortable. She got it."

Another added, "Sarah Paulson The dollar bill shade? Love to see it"

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Benefit, held every year on the first Monday in May, is known for mixing high fashion with cultural commentary.

This year’s exhibition, “Costume Art”, explores how fashion interacts with different types of bodies, from classical forms to aging and anatomical designs.

The exhibit, curated by Andrew Bolton, will run from May 10, 2026, through January 10, 2027. It pairs historical pieces with modern designs to highlight how fashion evolves with the human form.

The event itself was co-chaired by major names including Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour, continuing its tradition of blending celebrity, art, and influence.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.