Anticipation mounts as the 2024 Met Gala approaches, promising an unforgettable evening of fashion and cultural immersion. Set to unfold on May 6, amidst the grandeur of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, this year’s event will follow the theme of “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.”
An evening cloak by Charles Frederick Worth, 1889. Photo by Nick Knight. Image credit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Attendees are urged to follow the “The Garden of Time” theme with their attire, setting the stage for a mesmerizing exploration of sartorial evolution. At the heart of the gala lies the exhibition, a showcase of over 250 rare treasures sourced from the Costume Institute’s extensive archives. Spanning over four centuries of fashion history, these pieces include iconic designs by luminaries like Schiaparelli, Dior, Givenchy, and more.
Among the highlights are garments too delicate for physical wear, ingeniously brought to life through video animation, light projection, AI, and CGI technologies. One such spectacle features a Jeanne Hallée evening dress from 1913–14, employing the Pepper’s ghost illusion to animate its infamous “hobble skirt.” This controversial design, popularized by couturier Paul Poiret, symbolized female empowerment yet elicited comparisons to insects due to its restricting silhouette.
An Alexander McQueen dress, Spring 2001. Image credit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Visitors will also get to explore the intricate embroidery of a Dior 1615–20 waistcoat and the form of a “Mini Miss Dior” dress through 3-D printed maquettes. Adding to the sensory immersion are pieces that harness the power of sound, exemplified by a metal ensemble from Marni’s spring/summer 2024 collection and a dress crafted from razor clam shells by Alexander McQueen.
Meanwhile, a star-studded lineup, including Bad Bunny, Chris Hemsworth, Jennifer Lopez, Anna Wintour, and Zendaya will assume the role of co-chairs for the Gala, ensuring an evening of glamour and prestige. After the event, the ornate centerpiece showcased in the Museum’s Great Hall will be available for public viewing until May 7.
The Venus & Junon Gowns by Dior, 1949. Image credit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
With popular social media app TikTok facing a ban or divestment in the United States, it’s interesting to note that the MET Gala is sponsored by the app, and CEO Shou Chew will be accompanying Anna Wintour on the red carpet.
The event, which is also supported by luxury lifestyle brand Loews, will be under even more intense focus this year.
