Blake Lively made a striking impression at the 2026 Met Gala, not only with her elegant attire but also with a custom handbag that showcased the creative talents of her children. The actress, known for her role in “Gossip Girl,” carried a unique Judith Leiber handbag featuring colourful artwork painted by her four children: James, 11, Inez, 9, Betty, 6, and Olin, 3.
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As she ascended the iconic steps of New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art on 4 May, Lively expressed her vision behind the handbag. In a conversation with Vogue on the red carpet, she noted her desire to incorporate her children’s artwork into a piece that might resemble a famous work of art. However, rather than selecting an existing masterpiece, she proposed using her children’s creations to add a personal touch. “I said, ‘Would you, actually, if you’re gonna make it custom, would you do my kids?'” she recounted.
Each of Lively’s children contributed a whimsical watercolour painting that adorned the sides of the clutch, which she described as a way to keep her little ones near her during the event. “Isn’t that special? I probably could have fit them under my dress, to be honest. I should have snuck them under there,” she humorously remarked.
Following the gala, the Judith Leiber brand announced that this bespoke design would be available for other families to customise, carrying a price tag of $9,995. Each handbag will not only replicate Lively’s innovative shape but will also feature more than 10,000 hand-set crystals. The meticulous process of crafting the bag requires over 100 hours of work by a single artisan, ensuring that each piece is unique and of the highest quality.
Describing the handbag, the product listing notes, “Create a one-of-a-kind piece with a meaningful, personalised touch on this beautiful Bespoke Children’s Artwork Rectangle Dome clutch.” The design includes four paneled sides, allowing for the individual artworks to be displayed, making it a perfect keepsake for parents wishing to celebrate their children’s creativity.
Jana Matheson, the Chief Creative Officer of Judith Leiber Couture, commented on the significance of Lively’s creation. In an interview with Vogue, she highlighted how Lively’s affinity for “sparkle and touch of whimsy” inspired the design process. Matheson elaborated, stating, “This season’s clutch, featuring her children’s artwork, is an especially meaningful touch. We used a new minaudière shape with four sides, so each of her children’s drawings could be included.”
Lively’s collaboration with the prestigious handbag brand has opened up possibilities for other families to carry their children’s art in a glamorous, high-end fashion. The brand aims to empower parents to cherish their children’s creativity in a luxurious way, offering a tangible connection to their family’s artistic expressions.
As the Met Gala continues to influence fashion trends and inspire creativity, Lively’s custom bag stands out not just as a stylish accessory but also as a heartfelt tribute to family. In a world often dominated by high fashion, her handbag serves as a reminder that personal touches – especially those from loved ones – can take centre stage.
For those interested in this blend of elegance and familial love, Judith Leiber’s new offering may just be the perfect combination. While the price may be steep, the emotional value it brings can hardly be measured, making it a coveted item for parents looking to celebrate their little artists.