To co-chair the Met Gala means being one of the main celebrity hosts and figureheads of the event, alongside Anna Wintour. It is considered a very prestigious role that signals high status in fashion, entertainment, or culture.
Core responsibilities
Co-chairs help host the evening itself, which includes being among the first to arrive, setting the tone on the red carpet, and often giving remarks or appearing prominently once guests are inside. Their names and images are used heavily in promotion, so they act as the public “faces” of that year’s gala.
Behind-the-scenes role
Reports and industry coverage indicate that co-chairs typically collaborate on elements such as the theme’s presentation, the dress code, the dinner, the decor, and sometimes performances. They may also have input on parts of the guest list, although Anna Wintour retains final say over invitations.
Fundraising and representation
The Met Gala is the main fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, so co-chairs are expected to help publicize and represent the event to maximize attention and donations. Being chosen signals that the person is seen as influential in fashion and pop culture and aligned with the year’s exhibition and sponsors.
Co-chair vs honorary chair
A co-chair is actively involved in hosting and promoting the gala, while an honorary chair is more of a symbolic title often tied to a key sponsor or major donor. Honorary chairs may be listed alongside co-chairs on materials but are generally less involved in planning and on-the-night duties.
