The Met Gala is renowned not only for its extravagant themes but also for the notorious tendency of celebrity guests to flout the dress code. However, the 2026 gala was a departure from this norm, as a notable number of stars embraced the “Fashion Is Art” theme with remarkable fidelity, channeling inspiration from some of the globe’s most celebrated artworks.

At the forefront of this artistic homage was Kylie Jenner, who captivated attention in a Schiaparelli creation that was a nod to classical art. Her ensemble featured a flesh-toned bodysuit with faux nipples, elegantly draped with a cream satin gown gathered around her hips.

Kylie Jenner: Venus de Milo by Alexandros of Antioch

Kylie’s outfit was one of the evening’s highlights, though its artistic reference was not immediately apparent. It was only later that fans recognized its inspiration from Alexandros of Antioch’s iconic Venus de Milo sculpture.

Meanwhile, Cardi B found herself at the center of a social media frenzy over her unusual Marc Jacobs gown. The outfit drew mixed reactions, with some humorously likening it to a colon, sparking a lively online debate.

Kylie Jenner’s Schiaparelli gown a the 2026 Met Gala was inspired by Alexandros of Antioch’s famous Venus de Milo sculpture

Cardi B: The Doll by Hans Bellmer

Cardi B meanwhile was ripped on social media over her bizarre Marc Jacobs gown, which many compared to a colon.

The rapper told reporters that her giant sheer Marc Jacobs dress with black lace overlay was actually inspired by The Doll – seemingly referring to The Doll by Hans Bellmer, a series of photographs centering on a distorted female body. 

Cardi B was ripped on social media over her bizarre Marc Jacobs gown. The rapper told reporters that her giant sheer Marc Jacobs dress was inspired by The Doll by Hans Bellmer

Madonna: The Temptation of Saint Anthony by Leonora Carrington

Madonna also chose a lesser known artwork to reference. 

The superstar took over the blue carpet in her look from Saint Laurent’s Anthony Vaccarello, which evoked a painting by British-Mexican surrealist painter Leonora Carrington titled The Temptation of Saint Anthony.

The gothic black lace dress was accessorised with a striking ship headpiece and she carried a gold horn, a direct copy of the woman depicted in Carrington’s piece.

Madonna took over the blue carpet in her look from Saint Laurent’s Anthony Vaccarello which evoked a painting by British-Mexican surrealist painter Leonora Carrington titled The Temptation of Saint Anthony

Heidi Klum: Vestal Virgin by Raffaelle Monti

Heidi Klum leaned all the way into the theme, arriving in a look that could only be described as a living statue.

The Mike Marino costume was most reminiscent of Raffaelle Monti’s 1847 Vestal Virgin marble. 

Heidi Klum leaned all the way into the theme, arriving in a look that could only be described as a living statue

Kim Kardashian: Maîtresse by Allen Jones

Kim Kardashian put on a leggy display in an orange metallic bodysuit by British artist Allen Jones and Whitaker Malem that had a custom-molded breast plate on the front. 

Leather material fell down behind her and contained hues of both tan and vibrant orange. 

The outfit took inspiration from Jones’ poster for the 1975 French erotic film Maîtresse and was controversial in both the U.S. and U.K. upon its release. 

Kim Kardashian’s inspiration for her sculpted fembot look that she donned at the 2026 Met Gala has been revealed

Kendall Jenner:  Winged Victory of Samothrace

Kim’s sister Kendall Jenner’s Zac Posen for GapStudio look was inspired by Winged Victory of Samothrace, the second-century Greek statue of the goddess of victory that currently takes pride of place in the Louvre.

Posen used Gap’s staple of a classic white T-shirt as a starting point for his design, telling Vgue: ‘I took a white Gap T-shirt off of my back in my studio and started pulling it and tweaking it and figuring out how – in a contemporary way, in a glamorous way -to interpret the sculpture that influenced humanity and our modern culture.’

Draped chiffon and a custom leather corset from Abel Cepeda Ljoka and Will Kowall of the New York brand Seks as a base completed the look. 

Kendall Jenner’s GapStudio look was inspired by Winged Victory of Samothrace

Lauren Sánchez Bezos:  Madame X by John Singer Sargent

The gala’s honory chair Lauren Sánchez Bezos couldn’t ignore the theme, enlisting Schiaparelli creative director Daniel Roseberry.

‘The theme is Costume Art, and that’s exactly what Elsa Schiaparelli was doing 100 years ago,’ Lauren told Vogue. ‘She wasn’t just decorating bodies—she was making art on bodies.’  

Her black gown is a reference to one of the most famous portraits in The Met’s collection: Madame X by John Singer Sargent. 

The 1883 masterpiece depicting French socialite Madame Pierre Gautreau has a controversial history.

The artist’s choice to include one strap subtly slipping off Gautreau’s shoulder caused such an uproar that he repainted the strap upright and  hid the painting for three decades, eventually selling it directly to The Met. 

Sanchez explained has she was inspired by the tale, and the idea that ‘a small detail once sparked such a strong public reaction. When you stand in front of it now, you see a beautiful woman. For me, the image represents how fashion and cultural standards can shift over time.’

Sanchez wasn’t the only one to take inspiration from Madame X though. Brit actress Claire Foy’s Erdem Moralıoğlu gown was a more direct copy of the dress in the painting, with the added twist of a Barbour jacket.

The gala’s honory chair Lauren Sánchez Bezos couldn’t ignore the theme, enlisting Schiaparelli creative director Daniel Roseberry

Sanchez wasn’t the only one to take inspiration from Madame X though. Brit actress Claire Foy’s Erdem Moralıoğlu gown was a more direct copy of the dress in the painting

Emma Chamberlain: Ploughman by Vincent Van Gogh

Emma Chamberlain was inspired by both famous works of art and her personal connection to painting.

The star wowed in a custom Mugler by Miguel Castro Freitas dress hand painted by artist Anna Deller-Yee.

The colourful gown’s print was inspired by works by Van Gogh and Munch, but Emma gushed that her dad’s work as an oil and watercolour painter also played its part in her look’s creation. 

Emma Chamberlain was inspired by both famous works of art and her personal connection to painting

Rachel Zegler: The Execution of Lady Jane Grey by Paul Delaroche

Rachel Zegler made a statement about her controversial career trajectory with her 2026 Met Gala ensemble, as well as sticking to the Fashion is Art dress code. 

The Snow White actress made her third appearance at the annual event in a stunning Atelier Prabal Gurung gown.

The pearl silk dress was accessorised with a Jennifer Behr custom silk mask.

Rachel, 25, later confirmed that the blindfold referenced Paul Delaroche’s famous 1833 painting The Execution of Lady Jane Grey, who was beheaded in 1554 for high treason.

Fans applauded the reference, musing that Rachel’s own experience with ‘scapegoating’ and ‘cancel culture’ could be linked back to the painting’s subject. 

‘rachel zegler referencing the execution of lady jane grey who was wrongfully scapegoated and executed when she was just a teen girl, thinking thoughts,’ pointed out one fan on X. 

Rachel Zegler made a statement about her controversial career trajectory with her Atelier Prabal Gurung gown, as well as sticking to the Fashion is Art dress code

Gracie Abrams: Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer by Gustav Klimt

Gracie Abrams chose golden Chanel for her second year at the Met. Working with Matthieu Blazy they created a gown inspired by the work of Gustav Klimt.

The Austrian painter, was known for his groundbreaking use of gold leaf during his ‘Golden Period’. 

Gracie Abrams chose golden Chanel for her second year at the Met. Working with Matthieu Blazy they created a gown inspired by the work of Gustav Klimt

Hunter Schafer: Mäda Primavesi by Gustav Klimt

Hunter Schafer’s custom empire-waist Prada look was also directly inspired by Klimt, and specifically his seven-foot painting Mäda Primavesi. 

The 1912/1913 portrait, which hangs in The Met, depicts the nine-year-old girl wearing a white dress by Klimt’s friend, couture designer Emilie Flöge, decorated with flowers. 

Hunter Schafer’s custom empire-waist Prada look was also directly inspired by Gustav Klimt, and specifically his seven-foot painting Mäda Primavesi

Ben Platt: A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat

Ben Platt represented the men, with his custom hand-painted and embroidered Tanner Fletcher suit inspired by the work of post-Impressionist artist Georges Seurat’s 1884 painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.

Ben Platt represented the men, with his custom hand-painted and embroidered Tanner Fletcher suit inspired by the work of post-Impressionist artist Georges Seurat’s 1884 painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte 

The community of Plant City, Florida, is grappling with shock and sorrow after a tragic shooting spree claimed the lives of three generations within one family, including a 4-month-old infant and a 4-year-old child. Authorities confirmed these devastating details on Monday.

The Plant City Police Department reported that officers were called to a residential area early Sunday morning due to a disturbance. Upon arrival, they discovered four individuals had been shot. Tragically, the two young children were declared dead at the scene. Their 28-year-old mother was transported to a hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. A third child was found at the scene but was unharmed.

Further investigation quickly connected this violence to another site less than a mile away. There, officers found the 55-year-old grandmother of the children, who had also been fatally shot. She was identified as the mother of the deceased 28-year-old woman.

Authorities suspect that those involved moved between the two locations on foot during the early hours, which has led to a comprehensive citywide search for evidence.

Plant City police are diligently investigating the tragic murders of the young children, their mother, and grandmother, which unfolded in two separate locations. (Source: FOX13 Tampa WTVT)

Detectives are now urging residents and businesses to review surveillance footage from 5:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. Sunday, especially any video showing a woman walking with three young children near North Burton Street or West Tever Street.

Neighbors say there were warning signs in the days leading up to the killings.

Police have yet to name a suspect or motive in the killings in Plant City, Florida. (FOX13 Tampa WTVT)

“They had some type of disagreement on Friday to where the police were called by the wife. Then in that time, her mother came,” John Czarniak, who lives near one of the scenes, told FOX13 Tampa. He added that he saw suspicious behavior the night before the shooting, including a man strapping on a bulletproof vest and loading a large duffel bag into a car.

Police are asking residents to check footage any home surveillance cameras from between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. Sunday. (Plant City Police Department/Facebook)

Residents in the area described the aftermath as devastating.

“We’re devastated. Watching everything that unfolded is horrible,” neighbor Jody Kott told the station. “From what I saw, they will need every prayer they can get.”

Police have not released the identities of the victims or named a suspect. A motive has yet to be confirmed.

The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Plant City Police Department at 813-763-3316 or submit tips anonymously.

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New York has a reputation for overshadowing even the most brilliant athletes from other cities, much like it did with Reggie Jackson’s time in Oakland and Mark Messier’s stint in Edmonton. It’s easy to overlook that before finding his stride with the Knicks, Josh Hart had spent parts of seven seasons with three different teams—the Lakers, Pelicans, and Trail Blazers. His career took a pivotal turn when he was traded to New York in 2023.

Prior to his arrival in the Big Apple, Hart had never tasted playoff action. However, since reuniting with his former teammate Jalen Brunson, the Knicks have advanced to the second round of the playoffs for four consecutive seasons. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the franchise, reminiscent of the days when Patrick Ewing led the team to similar success from 1997 to 2000.

But what does this mean for Hart, a former national champion?

“Not a damn thing,” Hart candidly remarked before the start of the conference semifinals. “That’s not the goal. The goal isn’t to advance to one series or two series. That’s not a goal that we have as individuals or as a team. To be honest, that’s pretty irrelevant. We’ve gotta make sure we do what we’re supposed to do and focus on advancing in this series.”

Despite his determination, Hart struggled to find his rhythm in the Knicks’ commanding 137-98 victory over the 76ers in the opening game of the series, standing out as one of the few players who didn’t catch fire during the blowout.

But as usual, he did just about everything else.

Coming off an uneven first-round series against the Hawks — in which Hart averaged 10.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.3 steals, but shot 41.1 percent from the field and 5-for-23 on 3-pointers — the do-everything guard repeatedly ignited the Madison Square Garden crowd with his unrivaled energy and relentless defense, getting the offense into transition and treating every loose ball as if his job were at stake.

Hart, who ranks third in Knicks history in triple-doubles, finished with eight points, three steals, eight rebounds and six assists in just 26 minutes, while shooting 3-for-7 from the field (1-for-2 on 3-pointers).

“We want to play a little fast, so being physical, getting stops, pushing the pace, doing those kinds of things is something we’re trying to do, and we’ve got to keep it up,” Hart said. “We need to make sure we’re focused on Game 2 and mentally locked in … They’re definitely gonna come out aggressive.”

In the 2024 first-round matchup against Philadelphia, Hart was one of the biggest reasons why the Knicks prevailed in the teams’ first playoff matchup in 35 years.

He averaged over 46 minutes per game and ranked second on the Knicks in scoring (16.8) and assists (4.5), while leading the team in rebounds (12.3), shooting 43.2 percent and delivering the series-winning 3-pointer.

Once again, the 76ers had no one who could provide the same spark as Hart, no player as motivated, no player who cares half as much about the final score.

“Where we’re at right now, everyone is being unselfish,” Hart said. “We’re willing to sacrifice individual numbers and stats for the betterment of the team. And when we do that, we’re playing our best basketball.

“Being unselfish, that’s the biggest thing.”

In a tragic turn of events, Lorene Seeler Young’s minivan was struck by a speeding car, resulting in her death. This heartbreaking incident occurred because of an unfortunate twist of fate.

The 65-year-old grandmother missed her early morning flight from Fort Lauderdale Airport on May 19, 2024, simply because she didn’t wake up in time to catch the 4:30 a.m. departure.

Feeling downhearted, she managed to book a later flight and was on her way home on I-595. Her mother, Virginia Baker, 84, was driving their 2022 Chrysler Pacifica.

Out of nowhere, their minivan was rear-ended and violently pushed across four lanes of traffic, eventually crashing into a concrete barrier near Davie, Florida, around 5:43 a.m.

The collision was caused by Sofia Todorov, an aspiring model who was 19 at the time. She collided with the Pacifica in her mother’s 2024 Lexus IS at a staggering speed of 118 mph, as determined by police investigations.

Young and Baker were thrown forward against the dashboard as their car collided with the barrier at high speed.

The force of the impact spun the minivan around and violently slammed its rear into the barrier a second time before it finally came to rest. 

Young, an accomplished lawyer who ran her own firm, was killed and Baker escaped from the wrecked Pacifica with serious injuries.

Wannabe model Sofia Todorov, then 19, was allegedly zooming through South Florida in the early hours of May, 2024, year at almost twice the speed limit

The remains of the 2024 Lexus IS Sofia Todorov was driving after it rear-ended a minivan carrying two women, then collided with a concrete barrier

Lorene Seeler Young, 65, an accomplished lawyer who ran her own firm, was killed when Sofia rear-ended her mother’s 2022 Chrysler Pacifica

‘[Baker] only recalls the sound of a loud impact and then she blacked out,’ Florida Highway Patrol investigators wrote in a report obtained by the Daily Mail.

‘When [she] opened her eyes, she remembered seeing her radio and entire dashboard hanging out, and seeing smoke around her vehicle.

‘[Baker] observed [Young] slumped over the front passenger seat with blood coming out of her mouth and she could hear [Young] making sounds.’

Crash scene photos obtained by the Daily Mail showed the frightening intensity of the collision and the injuries Young and Baker suffered.

The two cars were reduced to crushed and twisted metal and mangled engine parts, with debris strewn across the highway.

Streaks of blood stained the white paint of the roof and door of the Pacifica where Baker clambered out of the wreck to desperately wave for help.

No one driving on the highway that morning stopped.

Inside the minivan, Young’s suitcase, packed for her trip, was flung open and clothes and toiletries strewn across the back seats.

Young’s flip-flops lay on the floor of the passenger seat where they were left when she was pulled from the car with her life slipping away.

Virginia Baker’s wrecked 2022 Chrysler Pacifica after it was rear-ended by Sofia and sent hurtling across the highway into a concrete barrier

Streaks of blood stained the white paint of the roof of the Pacifica where Baker clambered out of the wreck to desperately wave for help

More blood on the driver’s side door from where Baker escaped the wrecked car

The force of the impact spun the minivan around and violent slammed its rear into the barrier a second time before it finally came to rest

Skid marks showed the Pacifica’s path across the highway after it was hit, as Baker desperately tried, and failed, to regain control of the car.

Sofia made no effort to help the family she crashed into, and Baker never saw her before she was rushed to hospital, according to the police report.

The teen’s mother Silvia Todorov lent her the $41,000 luxury car to get home from her shift as a hostess at Sway nightclub in Fort Lauderdale.

Highway Patrol troopers wrote that though Sofia didn’t show signs of impairment at the scene and denied drinking during her shift, but refused to take a blood test. 

Her lawyer refused investigators access to the car’s electronic data recorder and police spent more than a year trying to get Lexus to turn it over, only obtaining the search warrant last July.

Police alleged in their report that the Lexus’ event data recorder ‘black box’ clocked her speed at 130mph just one second before the crash.

She began braking just 1.5 seconds before impact and collided with the Chrysler at 113 to 118mph, hitting it so hard the EDR thought the car rolled.

Sofia, now 21, turned herself in at Broward County Sheriff’s Office in October and was charged with vehicular homicide and reckless driving. She has pleaded not guilty.

Young’s flip-flops lay on the floor of the passenger seat where they were left when she was pulled from the car with her life slipping away

Inside the minivan, Young’s suitcase, packed for her trip, was flug open and clothes and toiletries strewn across the back seats

Inside the Pacifica showing the damage to the dashboard and the deployed airbag

Where the Lexus came to rest after sideswiping the concrete barrier seconds after the crash

Silvia may also face ruin as she is being sued by Baker and Young’s children Chase and Katie in two lawsuits for allowing Sofia to drive the high-powered V8 car.

The civil cases progressed to depositions from involved parties last year, but appear to be on hold since the criminal charges. Sofia and her mother deny liability.

Her daughter’s charges severely tarnished her once-popular Silergy Wellness Center, which offers everything from hypnosis to neuro-linguistic programming.

The 44-year-old bills herself as a ‘holistic life coach’ and ‘corporate mindfulness meditation instructor’, but may need to take her own advice.

‘You can’t put positive thoughts or feelings over bad ones, you need to “clear the mechanism” first. Free your mind of all the negativity and open space for new and positive thoughts,’ her LinkedIn read.

‘At Silergy, we integrate life coaching, mindfulness, meditation, fitness, and wellness retreats to help people overcome challenges such as grief, career transitions, burnout, and anxiety.

‘Our mission is to empower individuals to create lasting rituals that build self-discipline, inner balance, and emotional freedom.’

The business’ website no longer exists and its social media pages have not been updated since Sofia was charged.

Sofia, by contrast, spent much of her time filming TikTok videos and posing for risqué photos – even after allegedly ending a beloved grandmother’s life.

Sofia’s mother Silvia Todorov (pictured) runs Silergy Wellness Center and lent daughter the $41,000 white 2024 Lexus IS involved in the crash

Sofia, now 21, turned herself in at Broward County Sheriff’s Office last October and was charged with vehicular homicide and reckless driving

Young’s mother Virginia Baker, 84, was seriously injured in the crash and is suing both Sofia and her mother

She celebrated her 20th birthday at a glam club in March last year, ‘decided to be a cowgirl for a day’ on a trip to Texas last April and posed on a director’s chair in a barely there bikini in September.

‘Dreamer living for the moments that take your breath away. Sun, sea, and sunset vibes behind the camera, in front of it,’ her since-deleted Patreon opined.

‘I’m a fun, outgoing person with a big personality and a love for adventure. I’m always open to trying new things and stepping out of my comfort zone. 

‘Whether it’s exploring a new place or learning a new skill, I’m all about the experience! I’m kind, hardworking, and genuinely care about the people around me. 

‘I’m currently diving into the world of social media, excited to share my journey and connect with others along the way.’

Sofia also shot dozens of short videos for ‘Sloshed on Broadway’, where she approached inebriated revelers in Nashville to ask them about their sex lives.

The most recent video was posted just four days before her arrest.

Charging documents showed she was living in a residential tower with breathtaking views of Miami Beach where apartments cost more than $4,000 a month to rent. 

Sofia appeared in Broward County was held on a $65,000 bond and ordered to surrender her passport and wear an ankle monitor once she was released on bail.

Her defense lawyer, Jeffrey Grossman, claimed in court at the time that ‘there are no aggravating factors here, it was an accident’ and Baker may have cut her off in traffic.

Sofia spent much of her time filming TikTok videos and posing for risqué photos – even after allegedly ending a beloved grandmother’s life

Sofia (right) celebrated her 20th birthday at a glam club in March 2025 (pictured)

Then she ‘decided to be a cowgirl for a day’ on a trip to Texas last April (pictured on the day)

Sofia also posed on a director’s chair in a barely there bikini in September

‘My client indicated to police that the other driver pulled into her lane in front of her,’ he said.

‘Now, I’m not suggesting that my client was driving at a regular speed, but what I am suggesting is that my client did brake as soon as this car pulled in front of her.’

But the police report, relying on data recorded by the car, disagreed.

‘[Baker] was traveling directly ahead of [Sofia]. [Sofia] failed to slow and to keep a safe distance from traffic ahead,’ the report stated.

Sofia told police at the scene that she was going about 90mph, but then in an interview three months later in her lawyer’s office said she didn’t remember.

Neither she nor her attorney consented to police obtaining the EDR and detectives had to get it from the lawyers in the civil suits.

Baker’s lawsuit claimed her injuries from the crash were ‘permanent and continuing in nature’ and would require her to ‘expend great sums for medical, nursing, rehabilitation, and therapeutic and related treatment’.

She told police that she didn’t see another car behind her before being rear-ended.

Sofia (left) also shot dozens of short videos for ‘Sloshed on Broadway’, where she approached revelers in Nashville to ask them about their sex lives

Silvia in a promotional photo on her Instagram, which has almost 300,000 followers

Sofia posed in numerous risque photos on her social media pages even after the crash

Young was mourned online by her family and friends, and also by legal clients for whom she won cases.

‘My favorite memories of Lorene are at our grandma Lorene Higgins. Sitting on the back porch eating lunches of cheese, little round lunch meat on crackers,’ her sister Nikki Seeler wrote.

‘Grandma would mix the ketchup and mustard for dipping and we would look out the windows watching squirrels and birds.’

Baker said she knew her daughter was dead as she came to after the crash

‘The insides of my car were dangling. I felt moisture somewhere. The car was smoking,’ she told Local 10 TV.

‘I knew. In the car. And I asked in trauma, when they were working on me. They said, “We’re doing everything we can.” And the next time I asked – God took her.’

Gasoline prices across the United States have surged by more than 30 cents in just the past week, coinciding with the U.S. military’s recent initiative to provide escorts for commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz.

As reported by AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has climbed to over $4.45 as of Monday. This marks an increase of more than 34 cents compared to last week and over 35 cents from the previous month.

Diesel prices have also seen a notable rise, reaching above $5.64 per gallon on Monday. This represents an increase of nearly 20 cents from the previous week’s figures, according to AAA data.

The escalation in oil and gas prices can be attributed to the Iranian military’s stringent restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. These restrictions follow the initial strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran, which have heightened tensions in the region.

In response, the U.S. Navy commenced operations on Monday to escort vessels through this critical maritime passage. U.S. Central Command (Centcom) has confirmed the safe passage of two cargo ships under their protection.

Adm. Brad Cooper, the head of Centcom, told reporters Monday that U.S. forces have “reached out to dozens of ships and shipping companies to encourage traffic flow” through the strait. 

The mission, though, prompted retaliation from the Iranian military.

Cooper said that Iranian forces opened fire on U.S. warships in the region, to which the American military responded by destroying six Iranian small boats.

As strikes in the Strait of Hormuz persist, the price of gas continues to rise in the U.S. Patrick De Haan, the head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted Monday on the social platform X that gas prices rose in every state over the past week. 

Haan later wrote on X that U.S. oil and product exports have increased by nearly 30 percent since the war began on Feb. 28. Roughly 100 million are leaving American shores in the last seven days alone, Haan added.

That, he noted, is “driving prices higher” at the pump stateside.

In a significant political development, separatists in Alberta have announced they have secured enough signatures to potentially initiate a vote on the province’s departure from Canada. The group behind this movement, Stay Free Alberta, revealed on Monday that they have gathered nearly 302,000 signatures, surpassing the required threshold of 178,000 to prompt consideration of such a referendum.

According to Stay Free Alberta, the question of Alberta’s secession could appear on a province-wide ballot as soon as October. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has indicated her willingness to proceed with the referendum, contingent upon the verification of the collected signatures.

“This is a landmark moment in Alberta’s history,” declared Mitch Sylvestre, the leader of Stay Free Alberta, as he arrived at the Elections Alberta office in Edmonton. He led a convoy of seven trucks to deliver the gathered signatures, likening the achievement to reaching the “Stanley Cup final” after clearing several hurdles.

Although Premier Smith has expressed her opposition to Alberta exiting Canada, she has been critical of past federal Liberal administrations. She has accused them of implementing policies that hinder Alberta’s oil production and export capabilities, resulting in substantial financial losses for the province. Smith has emphasized her desire for the federal government to refrain from intervening in provincial matters.

Supporters were seen transporting boxes filled with signatures to the Elections Alberta office in Edmonton on May 4, 2026, marking a pivotal step in the pursuit of a separation referendum. (Photo by Jason Franson/The Canadian Press)

More than 300 supporters gathered in Edmonton on Monday, waving the provincial flag and chanting “Alberta strong.” 

A “yes” vote would not trigger independence automatically, as negotiations with the federal government would have to take place. 

Daniel Béland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, told the AP that despite the independence effort, liberal Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney “is indeed popular, even in Alberta.”

Mitch Sylvestre, the head of Stay Free Alberta, holds boxes of signatures before submitting them for a separation referendum to Elections Alberta in Edmonton on May 4, 2026. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press)

“The push for independence by some Albertans predates his prime ministership, and it’s related to economic, fiscal, and political grievances about the seemingly unfair treatment of Alberta by the federal government,” Béland said. “These concerns increased during the Justin Trudeau years, but they have peaked and even declined since he left office.” 

Béland added that some Indigenous groups that are already using the courts to prevent an independence referendum would use venues including the courts to stop independence from happening.

Mitch Sylvestre submits signatures for a separation referendum to Elections Alberta in Edmonton on May 4, 2026, as supporters fly flags behind him. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press)

The petition for a referendum could face a hurdle this week as an Edmonton judge is expected to rule on a court challenge by Alberta First Nations, who say separation would violate treaty rights. 

From jubilation to chaos.

Former New York Knicks player J.R. Smith found himself on the ground during a postgame celebration outside Madison Square Garden on Monday night. The once-beloved Knick was heard urging the surrounding crowd to “Relax, man, relax,” following the Knicks’ commanding 137-98 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1.

Smith, who was part of the Knicks from 2011 to 2015, frequently returns to Madison Square Garden for major games. After the team’s resounding win that kicked off their second-round series, he joined fans outside, exuding joy and smoking a rolled white object.

Fences often serve as the initial focal point when gazing into your garden and are typically the first greeting for visitors arriving at your home.

Traditionally, British streets were lined with just three main types of fencing: the simple lap panel, the more robust featherboard, and the charming picket fence.

However, this is no longer the case. Advances in technology and evolving trends have revolutionized home boundaries, offering a wide array of options from sleek, minimalist slatted screens to durable, weather-resistant composite designs.

Despite the allure of upgrading or replacing your fence, it can be a challenging and sometimes contentious task. A seemingly straightforward makeover can lead homeowners astray, resulting in design missteps, caution experts.

Given the nature of shared boundaries, a poor choice doesn’t just affect your aesthetic; it can also impact your neighbors, prompting a shared experience of dissatisfaction.

Jordana Ashkenazi, founder of award-winning design studio, Element One House, tells the Daily Mail borders are often a prime site for DIY disasters – and says you can often tell what kind of homeowner owns a property just by the fences that fringe their exterior space.

Are you a lap fencer? The most common kind of fencing in British towns and villages, the lap fence panel is ‘cheap and cheerful’

She explains: ‘People spend fortunes on kitchens, bathrooms, even cushions, and then completely forget the one thing everyone sees first, particularly in the front garden. The boundary.

‘Whether it’s a fence, a wall, railings or even a hedge, it’s the opening line to your home. It sets the tone before anyone steps inside and, consciously or not, people take it in straight away.

‘In some homes, it’s front and centre. In others, it sits quietly in the back garden or along a side return. But wherever it is, it still becomes the backdrop to your space, and that matters just as much.’

‘The biggest mistake people make is treating their boundary as an afterthought. If it feels considered, it lifts everything around it. If it feels rushed, it brings everything down with it. And people notice that more than you think.’

So, what does your current fence say about you? Have you stepped over the boundary of style, or are you sitting pretty with a border to be admired?

CHEAP AND CHEERFUL: THE LAP PANEL

Secured within a wooden frame, the lap panel is a traditional fencing type that has timber slats overlapping. 

Says Jordana: ‘This is the most basic and widely used option. It’s cheap, functional and does exactly what it needs to do. It’s not about design, it’s about practicality. 

‘You tend to see this in more no-frills, everyday gardens where the priority is simply getting something up and moving on.

The designer adds: ‘It gives a very “that’ll do” energy. Nothing offensive, nothing exciting, and not really driven by style.’

RETIREES’ FAVOURITE: FEATHERBOARD FENCING 

Sensible, and a little bit pricier than a standard lap panel, featherboard is a frequent sight in suburbia

More expensive than a lap panel, the featherboard doesn’t deviate too far from tradition – but lets people know it’s better quality, and thus pricier.   

Jordana’s verdict? ‘This is a step up. It’s more solid, more durable and feels more considered than a basic panel. You’ll often see this in tidy, well-kept gardens where everything is done properly, but not overly designed.’

If a featherboard boundary edges your garden, then you probably care about what your neighbours think – and are keen not to be the house that lets the side down in a middle-class neighbourhood. 

‘It sits firmly in that middle ground. Slightly more polished, slightly more intentional, often associated with family homes or middle-aged gardens where things are meant to look correct and finished.’

BORDERING BAD TASTE: A GREY PAINTED FENCE 

Tempted to reach for the paintbrush – it could make your fence look worse, not better, says design expert Jordana Ashkenazi

Nothing wrong with reaching for a tin of paint come the spring to tart up a lap panel fence, is there? 

Well, says our design expert, investing £50 in some paint and brushes might sound like an affordable outlay…but it could equal an instant taste fail – and it all comes down to which colour you choose.  

‘At one point, everything went grey. Grey sofas, grey kitchens, grey floors, and then, naturally, the fence had to follow. It became the fastest way to feel modern. If it’s grey, it must be design-led.’

She continues: ‘So suddenly everyone was out there painting their fences grey. I’ll do mine too. Now it looks current. Now it feels expensive. The reality is, it doesn’t always work like that.

‘Grey outdoors can feel quite flat and lifeless if it’s not balanced properly. Without planting, texture or warmth around it, it can end up dulling the space rather than elevating it.’

‘It often gives off that slightly try-hard, trend-chasing energy. The intention is there, but the execution doesn’t always land, and instead of looking high-end, it can tip into something that feels a bit downmarket.’ 

Can you ever paint a fence without it looking a little low-rent? You can, says Jordana.

‘If you are going to paint a fence, warmer tones tend to work far better. Soft olives, earthy neutrals and more natural shades sit much more comfortably in a garden setting and feel less trend-driven.’

‘DOING WELL FOR THEMSELVES’ MILLENNIALS: VENETIAN PANELS 

Minimalist battens of red-hued wood might appeal to a trends-loving thirtysomething couple – but they can make a garden feel a little characterless, warns our expert

There is no way an upwardly mobile thirtysomething would utter the words lap or featherboard to their fence installer – it’s all about the batten, ideally in classy red cedar. Fixed – at inch-perfect intervals – by hand, they create a modern-looking screen. 

Our expert’s low-down? ‘This is the more curated, contemporary option. It’s clean, architectural and very intentional. You can tell it’s been chosen as part of a wider look, not just thrown in at the end.

‘This is very much the domain of younger, design-conscious homeowners or well-to-do couples who want their garden to feel considered and on trend. It has that very polished, slightly Instagrammable feel.

‘It looks great when done well, but it can feel a little over-styled if everything around it is just as controlled.’

TOO POSH FOR AN ACTUAL FENCE? A NATURAL BOUNDARY

You don’t get many fences in the Cotswolds…and that could be for good reason. 

Boundaries that don’t rely on the kind of fences seen in suburbia are often much preferred in England’s prettiest towns and villages. 

Skipping the lap panel or featherboard is arguably the most ‘refined’ border you can have, says Jordana.

‘An ivy-covered wall or boundary softened with planting feels very English. It looks traditional, established and like it’s always been there.

‘There’s a softness to it that makes the whole garden feel calm and effortless. It doesn’t shout for attention, it just works.

No boundary required if you’re properly posh and living in rural England

‘You tend to associate this with older, more established homes or people who understand that a garden should feel natural, not over-designed.’

You’ll need to put the graft in every year though, or risk a boundary that quickly becomes untamed – and irks your neighbours.

‘It only works if it’s maintained,’ says our expert. ‘Ivy has a habit of taking over if you leave it to its own devices, and what starts off looking romantic can very quickly feel messy and overgrown. Keep it trimmed, keep it intentional, and it stays elegant rather than chaotic.

‘A simple brick or stone wall with planting in front, or ivy growing up it, can achieve a very similar look. It feels solid, timeless and far more considered than most off-the-shelf fencing options.

‘That said, stone or brick boundaries are not always possible. Where they are, they bring a natural, grounded quality to a garden that is hard to replicate. 

‘More generally, having some form of natural element within a garden, whether through planting, materials or texture, makes a noticeable difference to how calm and cohesive the space feels.’

THE STATEMENT FENCE: BLACK DECORATIVE PANELS 

Risky: Those who buy into statement panels are likely high-street trend followers – but such decorative panels might annoy your neighbours and see you grow tired of them quickly

The one big flaw with installing a fleet of statement fences – often black decorative metal panels with floral designs – is that they can look on point one season and tacky the next. 

Hello nouveau riche, basically. 

Jordana offers a word of caution: ‘They can look striking, but they’re not the easiest to get right. A lot depends on the pattern and how much of it you use.

‘They often appeal to people trying to create something more design-led or eye-catching, but there’s a fine line. Some designs look great, others can feel dated quite quickly, and it’s the kind of thing you might fall out of love with.’

The other pitfall? ‘They also don’t feel particularly natural. At the end of the day, they are large, quite chunky pieces of metal in a garden setting.

‘Used sparingly, they can be interesting. Overdone, they can start to feel heavy and a bit forced. This is where things can lean slightly nouveau riche, where there’s an effort to stand out, but it doesn’t always feel effortless.’

THE STUDENT SPRUCE-UP: WICKER OR BAMBOO SCREENS  

The quickest of fixes…but does such a perfunctory solution suggest that the owners approach life in the same way? 

Who needs to lever out a concrete fence post when you can just tack on a wicker screen and have a new look by lunchtime?  

Says Jordana of the wicker and bamboo screens you can pick up on Amazon for around £17 a panel: ‘These have a softer, more rustic feel, but they can also come across as a bit temporary.

‘They often feel like a quick fix or a budget solution rather than something designed to last. There’s a slightly student, stop-gap energy to them, like something that’s been put up for now and might be replaced later.’

‘If you like that natural look, bamboo can actually be a better option when it’s done properly. It has a similar warmth but can feel more intentional and more durable if it’s well installed and maintained.’

THE CHATTY NEIGHBOUR: A SHORT FENCE  

The height of a fence can say a lot about its owner too, says our interior designer. 

‘Shorter fences feel open and sociable. They suggest you’re happy to be part of your surroundings and not completely closed off.

‘A full 6ft fence is more about privacy and control. It creates a clear boundary and a sense of separation.

‘Neither is right or wrong, but they do give off very different signals.’