"Girl, you're at a classy Met, not a strip club.”
The 2026 Met Gala was a fashion spectacle; however, Simone Ashley’s ensemble caused a stir.
This year’s theme was “Fashion is Art” and it brought together global celebrities and designers.
The cast of The Devil Wears Prada 2 attracted attention, but Simone quickly became a focal point for criticism.
Simone brought a strikingly modern interpretation of the theme through her chain-link gown by Stella McCartney.
The sculptural design used repurposed chains to create a near-bare silhouette that challenged traditional red carpet expectations.
The Bridgerton actress paired the look with diamond bracelets and matching rings from De Beers.
Simone completed the outfit with dangling earrings and stilettos. Her styling included a bold eyeliner and a wine-toned lip, adding to the dramatic aesthetic.
Her hairstyle leaned into the theme’s theatrical tone, reinforcing the outfit’s statement intent. The daring look aimed to push boundaries, aligning with the Met Gala’s tradition of experimental fashion.
However, online reaction was divided, with some questioning the outfit’s suitability for the event.
One wrote: “Girl, you’re at a classy Met, not a strip club.”
Another suggested: “Could’ve worn her Bridgerton outfits or something.”
Some of the comments targeted Simone Ashley’s heritage, as one posted:
“Simone, you are Indian, you could have chosen an Indian dress, customised it like literally could have just tried instead of this??
“Does your team hate you? Did they say no? Why this… wtf is this?”
Another said: “How was she dressed better in The Devil Wears Prada 2 than she is at the Met Gala?”
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Questions around the theme also emerged. A commenter asked:
“What is the art? Chain art? Is that a thing?”
Some responses turned to her styling team. One user wrote:
“She really needs to hire a new stylist, I’m so serious. Beautiful woman whose outfits are always underwhelming.”
Meanwhile, others showed their support for the British actress.
One fan said: “At least she’s pretty.”
Another added: “Simone is the art herself, I get it.”
The brand behind the outfit offered further details on its construction.
In an Instagram post, it stated: “Constructed from 70% iconic Falabella chains and thread from the brand’s London atelier, each element of the garment is assembled by hand.”
The reaction highlights the continuing scrutiny faced by South Asian celebrities on global stages.
Fashion at the Met Gala often invites debate, but the inclusion of cultural identity within criticism reflects wider online discourse.
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