The highly anticipated Met Gala event in New York was a dazzling spectacle that showcased stars on the red carpet, each interpreting the theme of “gilded glamour” in their unique way. After being canceled in 2020 and postponed to the autumn in 2021 due to the pandemic, the annual extravaganza made its grand comeback to its original schedule.
Blake Lively, who served as one of the co-hosts for the night, made a stunning entrance in a beaded Versace gown, complete with an oversized satin bow. She described her dress as a tribute to the iconic architectural landmarks of New York City, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Accompanying her was her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, who looked dapper in a brown velvet tuxedo.
Among the early arrivals was Anna Wintour, the influential editor-in-chief of Vogue and the overseer of the Met Gala. Wintour exuded elegance and philanthropic spirit as she donned a Chanel dress paired with a tiara. The Met Gala is not just a glamorous event; it also serves as a fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, generating millions of dollars.
Over 400 celebrities from various industries, including music, film, fashion, and sports, were anticipated to grace the red carpet and showcase their extravagant costumes on the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim made her Met Gala debut wearing a feathered tulle ballgown, while actress Michelle Yeoh turned heads in a flowing green Prabal Gurung gown. Actor Riz Ahmed took a unique approach to the theme, paying tribute to the immigrant workers of the Gilded Age with his black open shirt, white undershirt, and leather boots.
The guest list for the exclusive event is closely guarded, creating an air of anticipation throughout the evening. Notable early arrivals included singers Jon Batiste and Shawn Mendes, tennis star Venus Williams, and actress Emma Corrin, known for her role in “The Crown.” While pop sensation Rihanna is a regular attendee, she was not expected to be present at this year’s event due to her pregnancy.
The Met Gala has garnered a reputation for bold and statement-making fashion moments over the years. From Beyoncé’s iconic “naked dress” to Kim Kardashian’s face-covering black bodysuit, the event always captures attention. In 2019, Lady Gaga astonished attendees with a striptease performance, donning four different outfits throughout the evening. The event, however, goes beyond fashion and has been a platform for political expressions. In 2020, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made a statement by wearing a dress adorned with the slogan “Tax the Rich.”
This year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams used fashion as a platform to raise awareness about gun violence. He wore a jacket with the words “end gun violence” on the back, sparking important conversations about the issue. The Met Gala serves not only as a celebration of fashion and creativity but also as an opportunity for social consciousness and activism.
The dress code for the Met Gala is inspired by the annual exhibit that coincides with the event. This year’s exhibit, titled “In America: An Anthology of Fashion,” showcases the evolution of American fashion from the late 19th century to the present. The gala was co-hosted by Oscar-winning actress Regina King and Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of the Broadway hit “Hamilton.” Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri and renowned designer Tom Ford served as honorary presidents for the year, with Ford dressing many of the attendees.
Since its establishment in 1948, the Met Gala has transformed from an exclusive gathering for New York’s high society into a global cultural phenomenon. Under Anna Wintour’s stewardship since 1995, it has become a star-studded catwalk where fashion, art, and philanthropy converge. With its return to its pre-pandemic splendor, the Met Gala continues to captivate audiences with its glamorous affair and its profound influence on the fashion industry.
Useful links:
1. Metropolitan Museum of Art
2. Vogue
