Kendall Jenner Scores Polka‑Dot Moment at 2026 Academy Museum Gala
The 2026 Academy Museum Gala lit up Los Angeles last night, gathering Hollywood’s elite to celebrate and fund the museum’s mission of preserving cinema. Among the flashing lights were Kim Kardashian, Taylor Swift, A$AP Rocky and a host of other A‑list guests. Kendall Jenner arrived in a custom Valentino gown that quickly became the talk of the evening.
“I love the Academy Gala. It’s so great we have this in L.A.,” Jenner told Vogue the morning after the event. “Supporting the museum and film brings me such joy. To be in the room with such legends is an honor, and having friends and family there makes it even more special. I truly enjoyed it all.” She added that she has been balancing “a lot of work and some play” this fall, and the gala offered a perfect chance to step out and have fun in a high‑profile setting. “I’ve been feeling extremely blessed to have a healthy work‑life balance,” she said. “When I can, I hide away with my animals and enjoy some quiet.”
On the carpet, Jenner chose a black‑and‑white polka‑dot Valentino dress she has long imagined for a red‑carpet moment. She explained to her stylist, Danielle Goldberg, that she sent a collection of inspiration photos and together they discovered the perfect piece. The floor‑length, strapless gown is crafted from a georgette fabric printed with black and ivory polka dots, overlaid with embroidered ivory duchesse satin and a black underlay. A deep side slit and two bow details at the hips add drama, while Jenner praised the silk feel of the material and the beaded black polka dots on the lower half, calling the dress “one of my favorites on a carpet.”
She completed the look with matching pointy pumps and a set of Cartier Panthère earrings and a ring, both set in 18‑karat white gold and studded with emeralds, onyx and diamonds. “The jewels were the perfect finishing touch for dancing the night away,” she said. Jenner capped the evening by spending time with loved ones and enjoying a drink, and she hinted that she plans to unwind for the holidays, hoping for a relaxed end to the year.
Jenner’s preparation for the gala was documented in a series of photos. She began her day at 8 a.m. in Athens, Georgia, attending an 818 college tailgate before flying back to Los Angeles. Once home, she moved straight into hair and makeup, applied final touches to her dress, and slipped into the comfortable yet stylish shoes that would carry her through the night.
Looking ahead, Jenner said she is eager to transition into holiday mode and continue sharing festive, glamorous looks. “I’m hoping my end of year is quite chill, and I can’t wait for the holidays,” she concluded.