The Met Gala is The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual fundraiser for The Costume Institute. The Met Gala always coincides with the opening of the exhibition and also inspires the dress code. This year’s theme for The Met Gala was “American Independence”.
The exhibition, Dress In America: A Lexicon of Fashion is a two part exhibit. The first part is on September 18, 2021 – September 5, 2022.
Here are my standouts on this year’s Red Carpet…
Iman: Reed Harris x Dolce & Gabbana
Sun Goddess. None of the cultural and historic references were lost on me. Let’s start at the top! The headdress evokes a Juju Hat, an homage to her African heritage. The caged hoop crinoline skirt, whose boning was covered in the same feathers as the headdress, reminded us of a very distinct point in history. Historically these were worn in the 1850-60s by wealthy white women. A time when most African-Americans were enslaved. Then, the choice of pants underneath the skirt is also a historical silhouette changer for women’s fashion and liberation. I love that all of these historical elements were combined into majestic magnificence.
Billie Eilish: Oscar De La Renta
The usual androgynous fashion choices deviated to channeling the iconic Hollywood glamour of Marilyn Monroe. This Vegan and Animal Rights Activist wore this on a condition that no more fur would be used by the brand. Proving that animals are a girl’s best friend!
Storm Reid: Prada
Deconstructed Can-Can Dancer & Western Saloon Girl served up a sultry cocktail of wine and blush! This modern version was a high kick.
Lil Nas X: Versace
A King, a Pope, and a Toreador! This cape commanded The Carpet.
Maisie Williams: Thom Browne
The Pannier took a trip to the 21st century to deliver a sculptural silhouette, which all tied together, and culminated in a cascading train of drama.
Lily Aldridge: Ralph Lauren
American Cowboy and Flapper fashion elegantly collided. The wonderfully western shirt and tiered beaded long skirt were punctuated with a metallic western belt.
Evan Mock: Thom Browne
Shorts, Safety Pins, and Spikes! This all came together giving us a peek back at Punk.
Normani: Valentino Couture
Bell Gown! The overly accentuated voluminous sleeves and skirt all cinched together perfectly at the waist and plunging neckline.
Charles Melton:
Brace yourself! The relaxed-open shirt, no tie, long open cuffs, and braces gave us more Après Party than Red Carpet. But, isn’t that where all the fun begins?
Tom Ford: Tom Ford
Ford, Tom Ford. Superbly stunning!
Carey Mulligan: Valentino Couture
Astoundingly A- line! This all encompassing skirt and strapless modern bustier with a billowing cape tied askew were pink perfection.
MJ Rodriguez: Thom Browne
This feminized, and folded fabric take on the traditionally male Tuxedo was completed with a corset instead of cummerbund. The reinterpretation of a classic was invigorating.
Gabrielle Union: Iris Van Herpen
Bubbling beauty! This work of art was created out of the genius mind and creative vision of Iris Van Herpen. Art belongs in Museums and so finally is this Designer.
Jimmy Fallon at The 2021 Met Gala
Jimmy Fallon: Thom Browne
The Pipped Tuxedo had a little whimsy, just like Jimmy!
