Who sizzled at the Serpentine Summer Party?

It’s all in the mix at the Serpentine Summer Party, otherwise known as the coolest party in the art world’s calendar. Aristocrats, billionaires, artists, models, actors, media powerbrokers and a pop star or two flocked to Hyde Park last night for the gallery’s annual fundraiser and unveiling of the Pavilion commission, now in its 25th year.

The 2026 edition has been designed by Mexico City-based Lanza Atelier – think undulating walls built of terracotta bricks – and counts Rolex as its Official Timepiece. In honour of the architects, a number of the country's leading cultural lights served as co-hosts, including Salma Hayek Pinault, in floor-length lilac, who was joined by her daughter (and Tatler Little Black Book alumna) Valentina Pinault.

Lady Gabriella Windsor glided swan-like through the throng, taking time to greet her fellow guests, in a paisley print dress paired with turquoise earrings. Her brother, Lord Frederick Windsor, was accompanied by his wife, Lady Frederick Windsor, who breezed into the event in her belted white shirt dress. The Marchioness of Bath went for an altogether slinkier look in an oxblood Caroline Herrera strapless gown while Princess Olympia of Greece looked chic in all-black.

Richard Caring and his wife, Patricia, mingled while Industry’s Marisa Abela did not leave Polly Anna Monckton’s side. Inside the gallery, in front of huge canvases by Cecily Brown – an artist once considered too staid to fit in with the YBA set – Charlie Brookner and his wife Konnie Huq were lost in conversation with Grayson Perry.

Guests grazed on spicy tamales, grilled corn, orange lollies (irresistible in a heat wave) and slices of chocolate cake. Fewer were invited this year to make for a more intimate atmosphere. One downside to this approach was a sadly empty dance floor.

While many of the starry attendees departed before nightfall, one-time Tatler cover star Emily Maitlis happily stayed. Perhaps the former BBC broadcaster was simply unwinding after the Prime Minister’s resignation that day. She took pictures for fellow guests, even directing two glamazons to achieve just the right pose. And what of the chaos in Westminster and an incoming Andy Burnham? ‘We wait with bated breath,’ she said. But whatever political upheaval the country may go through, the Serpentine Summer Party is a constant, the epitome of art world chic with an unparalleled guest list.

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