Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen | Source: Getty Images
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, 39, Make Rare Public Appearance Days Before Met Gala — Photos
The iconic twins step out in New York City just days before the Met Gala in a rare sighting. The photos reveal details that have netizens taking a closer look.
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Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen rarely appeared in public together, which made any sighting notable. This time, the twins were seen in Manhattan during a casual lunch outing with a friend, as reported by Page Six on April 30, 2026.
The 39-year-old fashion designers and "Full House" stars wore straight-leg jeans, dark outerwear, and minimalist mules, staying true to their signature aesthetic.
In the photos, the sisters walked along a tree-lined street wearing dark sunglasses and carrying structured handbags, their similar styling making them hard to tell apart at a glance.
One twin, with lighter hair and a cream scarf, held a phone, while the other wore a black coat.
According to the report, Mary-Kate carried a $33,000 alligator Lady Bag, while Ashley appeared to carry a croc version of The Row's Agnes Bag.
Once the images circulated, online users quickly responded.
On Facebook, a netizen wrote, "They look thicker than all the ozempic people....and that says something! They look healthy!" Another commented, "Wow, they're actually both smiling at the same time. That's the first time. I swear I've ever seen that since they've been little."
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A different commenter added, "Who is who at this point lol. Maybe Ashley has the brown hair now and Mary Kate still is a blonde?"
Meanwhile, another shared, "I know it's only a picture, but they LOOK happier and healthier than ai've [sic] seen in years. I love this for them."
On Instagram, reactions were more concise. One supporter gushed, "Very Pretty 😍." Another declared, "They were so cute, still are! It is a shame they withdrew like they have."
Someone else added, "I miss seeing them more. They were such a part of my growing up."
According to the same publication, the twins' Manhattan appearance came just days before the 2026 Met Gala, scheduled for May 4, though it remains unclear whether they will attend.
This year's theme, "Costume Art," will examine "the centrality of the dressed body."
Mary-Kate and Ashley last attended the event in 2019 for "Camp: Notes on Fashion," and their most recent public appearance before this sighting was at the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Awards in November 2025.
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In recent years, the former child stars have kept a low profile while focusing on their luxury brand, The Row, which adds context to the attention surrounding even a casual outing.
They are also known for keeping their personal lives private.
Ashley welcomed a son, Otto, with her husband, artist Louis Eisner, in 2023, while Mary-Kate has remained out of the spotlight since finalizing her divorce from Olivier Sarkozy in January 2021.
The twins' latest photos offer a closer look, alongside a timeline that tracks how their style and public presence have changed over time.
1988
Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen sit side by side as toddlers in matching pale pink outfits. They hold snacks and look forward with curious, wide-eyed expressions.
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1993
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen lean in close, smiling brightly in red tops and denim overalls. Matching bandanas and their pose give the moment a playful feel.
2000
Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen stand shoulder to shoulder in sleeveless dresses and chokers. They angle inward with soft smiles and a polished, composed look.
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2003
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen pose outdoors with their heads tilted together. Their loose hair and layered outfits create a relaxed, easygoing feel.
2006
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen stand at a fashion event with composed expressions. Ashley wears a pink velvet gown and jacket, while Mary-Kate chooses a sheer black dress.
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2009
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen pose closely during a TV appearance, leaning in with soft smiles. Their loose waves and neutral outfits give the moment a relaxed, polished feel.
2011
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen stand side by side at a formal event, both in dark outfits and round sunglasses. Their composed expressions and sleek styling create a bold, modern look.
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2013
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen pose closely at a fashion event, facing the camera with calm expressions. Their minimal makeup and simple black outfits highlight their signature understated style.
2015
Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen walk side by side in the city, both in dark, relaxed outfits and sunglasses. One holds a drink as they move casually down the street.
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2016
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen stand side by side at the Met Gala, turning slightly toward the camera. The black-and-white shot highlights their layered looks and calm, composed expressions.
2017
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen stand together at a fashion event, facing forward with neutral expressions. One wears a dark coat, the other a light blouse, both holding small clutches.
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2018
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen walk side by side at an event, both in structured black outfits. One raises a hand mid-gesture, while the other looks on with a calm, composed expression.
2019
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen pose in front of a pink floral wall, both in sleek black leather looks. With hands on hips, they face the camera with confident, polished expressions.
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2026
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