On the Podcast: Inside the 2024 Met Gala
Met Gala time! Monday marked Vogue’s biggest night of the year—our Super Bowl, some might say—and attendees arrived at the Met dressed to the nines. This year’s Costume Institute exhibition is titled “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” and with that and the gala’s dress code, “The Garden of Time,” as guideposts, starlets and their fashion designer friends dreamed up a wide range of looks—with an abundance of florals and clocks in the mix.
Inside the Podcast Conversation
To kick off the conversation on this week’s special episode, Chloe and Chioma were joined by Oscar-winning actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Gap creative director Zac Posen. The group ducked out shortly after what was rumored to be an incredible musical performance from Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in front of the Temple of Dendur.
This was Da’Vine’s first time at the Met, and her dress—designed by Zac—was a gorgeous, sculptural, 1700s-inspired gown made from denim. This is what custom Gap looks like! The look was accented by her fiery orange hair, flowing gracefully beside her dress train.
Standout Looks of the Night
- Amelia Gray: Wore a garden of a garment in Jun Takahashi’s yellow terrarium dress.
- Tyla: Brought the beach (or perhaps, the desert?) to the Met steps with her Balmain gown made of actual sand, an allusion to the sands of time.
- Lana Del Rey: Showcased a breathtaking gown that referenced Alexander McQueen circa 2006.
- Zendaya: Knew how to steal the show with a Margiela couture gown and runway-inspired makeup, followed by a billowing Givenchy dress.
- Bad Bunny: Wore custom Margiela and was the epitome of a handsome prince.
The Vogue Staff Perspective
Before heading off to after-parties, hosts invited their colleagues Irene Kim, Maya Layne, and Florence O’Connor to discuss what it’s like to work the Met Gala as Vogue staffers. According to them, there was cheese, chocolate, and not too much panicking.
The Aftermath of a Glamorous Night
Now, the fete-goers have frolicked in Anna Wintour’s garden; the clock has struck midnight; and the big day is over. It’s time for our sleeping beauties to rest. Sweet dreams!
The Evolution of Gala Fashion
This year’s Met Gala was not just a night of glitz and glamour but also a celebration of fashion evolution, creativity, and bold statements. The theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” encouraged attendees to draw inspiration from both past and future trends.
How Themes Influence Fashion
The integration of timepieces and flora into many outfits reflected not only the gala’s theme but also the timeless nature of fashion. It’s interesting how designers interpret such themes, transforming them into wearable art that tells a story.
Innovative Materials
- From denim to sand, the materials used in this year’s designs showcased innovation and pushed the boundaries of what is traditionally considered gala-appropriate attire.
- The use of unconventional materials speaks volumes about the industry’s willingness to explore and redefine luxury fashion.
Cultural Influences
Many looks paid homage to historical periods, blending nostalgia with modernity. This fusion highlighted the cyclical nature of trends in fashion.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact
The Met Gala serves as a barometer for the industry’s current state and future direction. It is not just about who wore what but how these choices reflect larger cultural and societal movements.