Emily Blunt’s half-million-dollar pearl body necklace redefined the relationship between clothing and jewelry at the 2026 Met Gala, held on May 4 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This stunning piece, crafted by Mikimoto, not only captivated attendees but also sparked conversations about the evolving nature of fashion.
That context matters because this year’s Met Gala theme was ‘Fashion Is Art,’ which encouraged attendees to push boundaries. Blunt’s custom Ashi Studio outfit featured a remarkable pearl body necklace that cost $500,000. It included a striking 21.85-carat morganite and an impressive 45.97 carats of diamonds, showcasing how jewelry can transcend mere adornment to become a central part of an ensemble.
Blunt’s choice to wear such a bold statement piece reflects a growing trend in fashion where accessories take on a leading role. Jessica Paster, Blunt’s stylist, remarked, “The body necklace became the garment; it defines the silhouette and directly expresses the relationship between the body and what adorns it.” This perspective illustrates how jewelry is increasingly integrated into fashion design rather than serving as a secondary element.
In addition to the breathtaking necklace, Blunt accessorized with Mikimoto Bows Akoya Pearl Earrings and Rings totaling another 45.04 carats of diamonds. The event was co-chaired by prominent figures including Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour—each bringing their own flair to this celebration of fashionable artistry.
Blunt also reunited with her co-star Stanley Tucci and sister Felicity Blunt on the red carpet, further highlighting her connections within the industry. Her makeup was likely done by artist Jenn Streicher while her hairstyle may have been styled by Laini Reeves, adding to her overall glamorous look.
The Met Gala not only serves as a platform for showcasing extravagant outfits but also raises funds for the Costume Institute of the museum. Since making her debut at this prestigious event in 2007, Blunt has consistently impressed audiences with her fashion choices—yet this year she truly stood out.
As discussions around fashion continue to evolve, one thing is clear: Emily Blunt’s extraordinary necklace has set a new standard for future events. The fusion of clothing and jewelry into a singular expression of art challenges designers and attendees alike to rethink their approach to style.