The Metropolitan Museum of Art has just revealed the theme for its highly anticipated Costume Institute exhibition and gala in 2024. Known as the fashion world’s party of the year, next year’s event will be titled “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” The Met Gala, held annually, gathers a prestigious guest list of fashion icons, celebrities, and influential figures in politics, all carefully curated by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Scheduled to take place in Manhattan on May 6, 2024, the gala will celebrate the opening of the exhibition. From May 10 to September 2, 2024, the general public will have the opportunity to explore the exhibition, which promises to be a sweeping and immersive experience.
The exhibition will feature approximately 250 garments and accessories dating back to the past four centuries. These pieces will be sourced from the Costume Institute’s extensive archives, which house an impressive collection of 33,000 items. Among the notable items that will be on display are a 17th-century embroidered jacket and an iconic Alexander McQueen gown made of shells from his spring-summer 2001 collection.
Using the natural world as a visual metaphor, the exhibition will delve into cyclical themes of rebirth and renewal, symbolizing the transient nature of fashion. The aim is to bring these historic artifacts back to life by stimulating the senses commonly associated with fashion. Costume Institute curator Andrew Bolton explains that even though visitors cannot wear the items, various technologies will enable them to experience the movement, smell, sound, and touch that would otherwise be absent.
During the unveiling event, a stunning 19th-century House of Worth ball gown made of silk satin was showcased. Although it is too fragile and damaged to be displayed on a mannequin, it will be presented flat and restored to its original glory using computer imaging and holographic technology, showcasing the Met’s commitment to immersive exhibitions.
In a somewhat controversial decision, the Met Gala will be co-sponsored by TikTok, a Chinese-owned video sharing platform. While the partnership may face backlash due to concerns over the platform’s alleged ties to China’s ruling Communist Party, the museum views it as an opportunity to maximize accessibility and extend the exhibition’s global reach.
The Met Gala is not only a star-studded event but also serves as a crucial source of funding for the Costume Institute. Led by Anna Wintour, it has evolved into one of the world’s most highly anticipated and widely discussed events. As preparations for the “Sleeping Beauties” gala and exhibition get underway, the fashion world eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the guests’ extravagant outfits and the breathtaking display of fashion history that awaits them at the Met.
Useful links:
– Metropolitan Museum of Art – “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” Exhibition
– Vogue – “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” Met Gala Theme
