“This is the real Met Gala.

I was at the New York City Ballet’s 2026 Spring Gala inside the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, sharing a cocktail table with two other art lovers and fashion enthusiasts.

It was a fair assessment, considering that over the decades, this event has transformed from an arts fundraiser to a fixture on the New York City social calendar.

Ballet, here, is not just a performance. It’s a gathering of philanthropists, celebrities, artists, and even tech founders, as former ballerina turned the founder of Mirror, Brynn Putnam, was one of the gala’s chairs. She was joined by honorary chair Mick Jagger and members of a host committee, including Stephen Colbert, Claire Danes, Ashley Graham, Nicole Ari Parker, and Christian Siriano.

Around the room, Business Insider spotted looks that were deserving of their own curtain call. Take a look.

Yellow is very nowNYC Ballet Gala fashion

“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Sutton Stracke dazzled in spring’s trendiest color.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Diamonds are foreverNYC Ballet Gala fashion

The New York City Ballet performed “Diamonds,” a clear fashion theme of the night, too.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Peachy keen looksNYC Ballet Gala fashion

Host committee member Ashley Graham got peachy in an orange floor-length gown.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

It’s the shadesNYC Ballet Gala fashion

An attendee wears a dramatic oversize double-breasted black blazer. His statement spectacles make the look.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Yes, we’re blushing tooNYC Ballet Gala fashion

“The Real Housewives of New York” star Sai De Silva and her daughter are expertly matched in complementary ivory and blush-pink gowns.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Chic floralsNYC Ballet Gala fashion

Attendees at the New York City Ballet Spring Gala embraced florals.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

A flower in bloomNYC Ballet Gala fashion

Jean Shafiroff’s floral-inspired gown by Ese Azenabor is a showstopper.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Monogrammed perfectionNYC Ballet Gala fashion

Jill Kargman took monograms to another level with her gown that showcased her initials.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

A couple that slays togetherNYC Ballet Gala fashion

Attendees dazzled in a black overcoat with floral appliqué detailing, while another paired a crystal-embellished black gown with draping white tulle.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Bustles are backNYC Ballet Gala fashion

This attendee, wearing a floor-length gown, complete with a bustle, stood out among the crowd.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

How to make black interestingNYC Ballet Gala fashion

This attendee proved that black is still in vogue, especially when it’s textured and has fringe.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Flowers in the springNYC Ballet Gala fashion

Florals can never disappoint at a gala in the springtime.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

Come for the green, stay for the ChanelNYC Ballet Gala fashion

One guest embraced bold monochrome dressing in an emerald green suit.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

The case for orangeNYC Ballet Gala fashion

This attendee made orange a moment.Rebecca Smeyne for BI

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