13 Stars Who Channeled Madame X on the Red Carpet Red Carpet Looks Inspired By Art Is Madame X the Secret Muse of the 2026 Met Gala? There's a reason why John Singer Sargent's portrait of Madame X continues to be one of fashion's most beloved references. That black gown! The dramatic pale skin! And yes, the strap that She's an icon, she's a legend and she is the moment When John Singer Sargent's "Madame X" was first displayed in 1884, it was described as indecent and a vulgar attempt