By Nimah Alabi
American model, Kendall Jenner, brought a playful touch to red-carpet fashion at the 2026 Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 17, wearing a custom Maison Valentino gown paired with Cartier jewellery.
Designed by Valentino creative director, Alessandro Michele, and styled by Danielle Goldberg, the strapless black-and-white gown featured contrasting polka-dot patterns, a floor-length skirt, a high slit and bow details around the hips.
The design combined smaller white dots on the black bodice with larger black dots on the ivory skirt, giving the classic pattern a distinctive look.
Jenner completed the outfit with matching polka-dot heels and jewellery from Cartier’s Panthère collection.
In an interview with Vogue, Jenner revealed that she had long wanted a polka-dot look for the red carpet, making the custom creation a particularly special fashion moment for her.
The model joined a star-studded guest list at the sixth annual Academy Museum Gala, an event that celebrates the art and history of cinema while raising funds for the museum’s exhibitions, educational initiatives and public programmes.
Jenner’s appearance was among the evening’s notable fashion moments, demonstrating how a familiar pattern can be reimagined through bold contrasts, careful styling and luxury accessories.
