Stars dazzled in New York City on Monday evening during the highly-anticipated annual Met Gala. This year’s event paid homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld, the renowned fashion designer known for his unparalleled creativity and influence in the industry. A-list celebrities from the realms of fashion, film, politics, and sports graced the red carpet, showcasing their impeccable style and making significant announcements.
One of the biggest highlights of the night was superstar Rihanna’s show-stopping entrance. The fashion-forward singer, who is also expecting her second child, made a grand arrival in a breathtaking white Valentino ensemble. Her outfit featured a white gown with delicate spaghetti straps and a flowing white cape adorned with ethereal camellias, Lagerfeld’s favorite flower. She completed her look with white fingerless gloves, which served as a nod to Lagerfeld’s signature accessory.
The Met Gala also witnessed the glamorous baby bump reveals of tennis legend Serena Williams and supermodel Karlie Kloss. Williams, who tactfully timed her pregnancy announcement for the event, expressed her joy about attending the gala with her husband and their unborn child.
The guest list for the Met Gala is meticulously curated by Anna Wintour, the esteemed editor-in-chief of Vogue. Wintour has turned the annual charity gala into a highly-coveted and prestigious event in the fashion world. This year’s gala not only pays tribute to Karl Lagerfeld but also marks the opening of a Costume Institute exhibition dedicated to his remarkable career. Titled “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” the exhibition honors Lagerfeld’s enduring impact on the fashion industry spanning several decades.
Celebrities in attendance embraced the theme of the gala by donning vintage Lagerfeld looks or selecting designs that epitomized his aesthetic. Oscar winners Nicole Kidman and Michelle Yeoh epitomized timeless elegance in Lagerfeld creations. Kidman wore a feathered blush Chanel gown, which she had previously worn in an iconic ad for the brand. Yeoh opted for a classic Lagerfeld silhouette, stunning in a black and white ensemble.
Singer Dua Lipa opted for a cream-colored Chanel bridal gown from the 1990s, while actress Olivia Wilde chose a vintage Chloe gown designed by Lagerfeld himself. The red carpet witnessed an array of black, white, and cream outfits, with sporadic bursts of vibrant colors that added a touch of liveliness to the evening.
Notably, two guests paid homage to Lagerfeld’s beloved cat, Choupette. Singer Doja Cat arrived in full makeup resembling the feline, while actor Jared Leto donned a full furry costume. Lagerfeld’s cat had become a fashion icon in its own right during the designer’s lifetime.
While Karl Lagerfeld was celebrated for his immense talent and creative prowess, he was not immune to controversy. His public battles with weight and his controversial remarks about curvy women and the #MeToo movement garnered attention. However, the focus of this year’s Met Gala was solely on Lagerfeld’s contributions to the fashion industry, specifically his designs and creations.
The star-studded event was co-chaired by actresses Penelope Cruz and Michaela Coel, retired tennis legend Roger Federer, and singer Dua Lipa. The guest list for the Met Gala is always a well-guarded secret until the night of the event, but it was estimated that around 400 individuals would attend. The Met Gala is an invitation-only affair, with tickets priced at $50,000 for individuals and starting at $300,000 for tables.
The Met Gala honoring Karl Lagerfeld was an unforgettable night that showcased the convergence of fashion and celebrity. As A-listers from different fields paid tribute to Lagerfeld, they also epitomized their own unique sense of style, making the event an iconic moment in the realm of fashion.
Useful links:
1. Metropolitan Museum of Art – Official Website
2. Vogue Magazine – Official Website
