Designer Aurora James, known for creating Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's "Tax the Rich" Met Gala dress, is facing a seven-figure lawsuit from event organiser The Gathery Inc. over unpaid bills from a charity gala in February 2026. The case centres on allegations that James, her nonprofit 15 Percent Pledge, and its fiscal sponsor failed to pay approximately $1.08 million in costs for the "15 Percent Pledge Gala 2026" held at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. The incident is notable for the apparent contradiction between James's public advocacy for economic justice and the allegations against her.

The Gathery alleges that James's nonprofit made initial deposits towards a $1.5 million bill before ceasing all payments in November 2025, despite James personally directing the project and assuring payment would follow. According to court documents, James approved cost-expanding changes whilst allegedly knowing the nonprofit lacked the ability to pay. This is not the first time James has faced payment disputes; her fashion brand reportedly accrued tax debts and employee withholding violations totalling at least $14,798 between 2015 and 2019. Legal experts have highlighted the irony of an organisation dedicated to supporting small businesses allegedly stiffing one for such a substantial sum.