Dear Shaded Viewers,
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute Gala, fondly known as the Met Gala, returned on May 6th, 2024, with a theme that was both fantastical and thought-provoking: “The Garden of Time.” Inspired by J.G. Ballard’s short story of the same name, the evening celebrated the upcoming exhibition, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” with a focus on the cyclical nature of trends and the ever-evolving landscape of fashion. This year Anna Wintour selected Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, Zendaya and Chris Hemsworth as co-chairs for the night.
Hours before the floral extravaganza commenced and the NYPD apprehended pro-Palestine protestors whilst nearby, Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute’s head curator, delivered a poignant explanation of the “Sleeping Beauties” exhibition’s connection to the gala’s theme at a Monday preview, setting the scene for what was to come.
To many onlookers the theme for the night was a source of confusion, as although some celebrities were in tune with the ‘Garden of Time’ theme, many others arrived in looks emulating the ‘Sleeping Beauties’ theme from the exhibition.
It was a given that florals would rule the night, as they were central to the Met’s theme, however the selection of interpretation’s were for the most part brilliantly done. Gigi Hadid’s breathtaking Thom Browne gown, meticulously handcrafted over 13,500 hours left a lasting impression on viewers. Greta Lee’s custom Loewe dress, made from white Chantilly lace was adorned with 3D flowers which made the detailing on the gown divine, especially on the dramatically high neckline. Anna Wintour herself donned an elegant black coat with florals embroidered down the front. The coat, custom made by Loewe was inspired by a cape designed by Charles Frederick Worth, a renowned British designer and founder of the House of Worth., also known as the father of haute couture.
An array of other floral dresses and motifs could be seen on the not so red carpet on the night —the Met went green this year, in line with the theme— Taylor Russell’s custom Loewe look was an ode to the trees depicted in the garden of J.G. Ballard’s story. Her bodice was given an oak effect with brown vines carved across the waist, whilst the bottom of the dress was made from elegantly draped material. Demi Moor opted for something more sustainable this year, parading the steps in a Harris Reed designed custom gown from made from recycled material, making her look ever the flower in high bloom.
As celebrities and guests ascended those hallowed stairs on Monday night, it was clear to see who got the memo about that their attire should capture the essence of “fleeting beauty” and who did not! Some standouts from the night included Zendaya – unsurprisingly- who captivated social media with both her looks, one of which was custom made by Maison Margiela fitting the theme in an eccentric yet visually pleasing way. Styled by Law Roach Zendaya, returned the stairs once more this time in a sumptuous vintage Givenchy gown designed by John Galliano in 1996, topped off with an exquisite floral bouquet hat by Phillip Treacy from Alexander McQueen’s 2007 show. Clad in a Gaurav Gupta gown that resembled a “melting flower,” actress Mindy Kaling brought a touch of the desert to the night, with its flowing, nude fabric her dress was reminiscent of windblown desert sand. Elle Fanning’s light blue glasslike Balmain gown put an icy spin on the nights theme, the silhouette held up by the sleeves by what looked like two sculpted birds, giving the actress an almost ethereal look.
The men did not disappoint this year. Many arriving in stunning looks and enchanting brooches to match. Adrien Brody’ stepped out in a slick Maison Margiela tuxedo, accented by an avian-inspired brooch that featured a stunning aquamarine centrepiece. Singer Omar Apollo’s Loewe look was also a showstopper. The black suit designed by Jonathan Anderson, featured a wide lapel embellished with crystal flowers. Meanwhile, legendary designer Tom Ford donned a red velvet Saint Laurent suit jacket and sharp black trousers, by Anthony Vaccarello. His look finished with an elegant white floral brooch, giving it the sophisticated contrast it needed.
Elsewhere, the theme of ‘time’ was also explored, numerous stars paid homage to designs of old, whilst others showcased more futuristic interpretations of the theme. From serial business woman, Mona Patels Iris Van Herpen gown complete with moving butterflies —an innovative take on the theme— to South African singer Tyla’s gown of sand, from the genius mind of Olivier Rousteing for Balmain. The dress was long, sculptured and completely covered with sand.
This year more so than ever the theme chosen by Anna Wintour and her team at The Met Museum, was widely interpreted with some hits and many misses. Although many still relish in the splendour of the first Monday in May, is it slowly and painful losing its allure. Has it, like the exhibitions themselves become a relic of the past or can it – will it- evolve into something else in order to keep the conversation going.
Later,
Bethany
