Ah, the Met Gala, fashion’s biggest night of the year… The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Gala (Instagram) unfolded last night, transforming the steps into a fantastical “Garden of Time.” Inspired by the Institute’s newest exhibition, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” the theme invited a reawakening of historical fashion with a modern twist.
However, the true innovation unfolded within the museum’s walls. The exhibition itself boasts a collection of rare pieces, so delicate they can’t be entrusted to traditional mannequins. Stepping in to bridge the gap between preservation and presentation is cutting-edge technology. Imagine 19th-century ball gowns brought to life with holograms and light projections, their intricate details shimmering for a new generation. This immersive experience allows visitors to truly appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of these fashion relics.
Curated by the one and only Andrew Bolton, the exhibition delves into the beauty of the natural world, divided into three realms: Land, Sea, and Sky. This influence was undoubtedly reflected in the floral and botanical motifs that graced the red carpet, with designers offering their own creative interpretations.
Fashion icons Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, and Chris Hemsworth led the glittering charge, carrying on the legacy of Anna Wintour who transformed the Met Gala into the star-studded spectacle it is today. While the event itself remains shrouded in secrecy (guests even abide by a strict no-phone policy!), whispers of past years hint at high-profile musical performances – this year led by Ariana Grande, lavish dinners, and the chance to mingle with the biggest names in fashion and beyond.
Now, onto the real reason you’re here (besides secretly wishing you were invited): the red carpet looks! Because let’s face it, some interpretations of “Sleeping Beauty” were more “happily ever after” and others were a touch “nightmares in needlepoint.” But fear not, dear reader, we are here to navigate the sartorial leafy landscape:
Tyla in Custom Balmain, this has to be my favourite look, it’s sleek, a beautiful and surprising take on the theme, attention to detail is impeccable and technically, I have no idea how this texture is even possible – also please watch her going up the stairs, she had to be carried, it’s wonderful
Zendaya in Galliano, this is Galliano referencing Galliano, it’s history, it’s fashion, it’s theatrical, it’s strong, it’s bold and still beautiful and most importantly still on theme
Zendaya in Galliano, again, it wouldn’t be a Met Gala without an outfit change, it’s powerful, very Galliano but not as strong as the first look – was this change necessary? What is it adding?
Kendall Jenner in Vintage Givenchy, it’s giving Maleficent vibes and I’m not mad about it. It’s also a win as this archival piece had never been worn before and it’s breathtaking.
Emma Chamberlain in Jean Paul Gaultier, embodying a more grunge version, what I imagine the Grapes of Wrath to look like. Decadent, beautiful.
Rebecca Hall in Danielle Franke, yes, yes, yes, on the nose but ethereal, elegant, airy. Attention to detail on the temporary tattoos rising from the sleeves – perfect execution.
Josh O’Connor in Loewe, I appreciate every detail of this look.
Mike Faist in Loewe, adding him to stand next to O’Connor, because of Challengers and because I appreciated that little turnip
Gwendoline Christie in Maison Margiela by John Galliano, because this year is secretly about him and it’s theatrical and unexpected
Taylor Russell in Loewe, I thought this was a beautiful, an understated way to be on theme, extremely contemporary, a garden is wood, too and no one else seemed to remember
Elle Fanning in Balmain, dressed in water, looking like a nymph while still in her comfort zone
Alton Mason in Thom Browne, brought the duvet with him
Cynthia Erivo in Thom Browne, Thom Browne killed it this year
Nicole Kidman in Balenciaga, a recreation of a Flamenco-Inspired 1950s gown – approved
Lily Gladstone in Gabriela Hearst and Ataumbi Metals, a starry night of understated elegance
Lil Nas X in Luar, I’m not sure what is has to do with the theme but I’m all for a Couture Cowboy
Lana Del Rey in Alexander McQueen, yes to the dress, the storytelling, the designer and the theme – centaur meets dawn in enchanted forest – however, undecided about her hooves
Cardi B in Windowsen, it’s big and dreamy – yes
Amanda Seyfried in Prada, a silver lake in the night, Prada does no wrong
Nicki Minaj in Marni, on the nose, but fun
Adwoa Aboah in Custom H&M – yes, nothing to add
Bad Bunny in Maison Margiela, this is on theme without a rose in his hair, the stitching seems unfinished, a nod to the passage of time, storytelling, fantastical in the details of the shoes, the hat – great look
Gigi Hadid in Thom Browne, the dress seems to be deconstructing before our eyes
