The 2018 Met Gala theme, "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," which was followed by the Met exhibition, explored the influence of, and engagement with, fashion in the devotional practices and traditions of Catholicism. This included a variety of papal vestments and accessories, some dating back to the 18th century. Those invited to the event were told to follow a dress code of "Sunday Best."

Designers featured in the exhibition included prominent names such as Alaïa, Balenciaga, Galliano for "House of Dior," Paul Gaultier, Lacroix, Lagerfeld for "House of Chanel," and many others. The night featured celebrities and fashion icons in outfits inspired by religious figures such as the Pope and angels. While pop culture's engagement with religion has often been confrontational, the Vatican endorsed the event and donated more than 40 artifacts to the show. Several Catholic priests even attended the ball as honored guests. The exhibit attracted more than 1.65 million visitors, making it the Met's most visited.