Lily Gladstone made history at the 2024 Met Gala by becoming the first Native American woman to be nominated for an Oscar and showcasing Indigenous fashion on the red carpet. Her outfit, designed by Gabriela Hearst and crafted by Kiowa jeweler Keri Ataumbi, featured a black corseted dress and organza cape adorned with recycled silver stars arranged into nine different constellations. Gladstone drew inspiration from her cultural heritage, stating that Indigenous peoples have always believed they come from the stars and return to them in death. This theme of time and ancestry was beautifully captured in the tapestry of stars on her outfit.
The creation of Gladstone’s outfit was a collaborative effort between Hearst and Ataumbi, who both share a connection to the Great Plains and its starry skies. Ataumbi’s background and passion for the stars led to the idea of incorporating celestial imagery into Hearst’s sleek design. The challenge of mapping out nine different constellations on a garment required careful planning and attention to detail. By studying an image of the Great Plains sky during the summer solstice, Ataumbi accurately embroidered the constellations onto the dress and cape. This accurate representation of how Indigenous peoples view the stars aimed to shift the perspective from the traditional Western viewpoint of constellations.
The significance of incorporating Indigenous themes and cultural references into fashion was not lost on Gladstone, who sees her Met Gala outfit as a way to honor her heritage and bring attention to Native American artistry. The collaboration between Hearst and Ataumbi highlights the importance of Indigenous representation in the fashion industry and the power of using traditional techniques and motifs in modern design. By showcasing the craftsmanship and storytelling behind her outfit, Gladstone hopes to inspire other Native American artists and designers to share their culture with the world.
The symbolism of the constellations on Gladstone’s outfit carries a deeper meaning for Indigenous peoples, linking them to their ancestors and the land. The stars represent a connection to the past and a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and death. By wearing these constellations on the red carpet of the Met Gala, Gladstone is reclaiming her place in history and celebrating the resilience and creativity of Indigenous communities. Through her thoughtful approach to dressing and her commitment to representing her culture in a meaningful way, Gladstone is paving the way for greater visibility and recognition of Native American fashion and artistry.
The attention to detail and craftsmanship of Gladstone’s outfit symbolizes a larger movement towards inclusivity and cultural appreciation in the fashion industry. By collaborating with Indigenous artists and incorporating traditional techniques into contemporary designs, designers like Hearst and Ataumbi are challenging stereotypes and promoting diversity in the mainstream. Gladstone’s outfit at the Met Gala serves as a powerful statement of pride and self-expression, showcasing the beauty and complexity of Native American heritage through the lens of high fashion. As she continues to break barriers and push boundaries, Gladstone is leading the way for more inclusive and representative storytelling in the world of fashion and entertainment.
Overall, Lily Gladstone’s outfit at the 2024 Met Gala represents a significant moment in the intersection of Indigenous artistry and high fashion. By choosing a design that honors her cultural heritage and celebrates the beauty of the stars, Gladstone is bringing attention to the importance of Indigenous representation in the fashion industry. Through collaboration with designers like Gabriela Hearst and Keri Ataumbi, she is showcasing the talent and creativity of Native American artists and designers. This thoughtful and intentional approach to dressing not only highlights the richness of Indigenous culture but also challenges conventions and expands the boundaries of what is considered fashionable and beautiful. Lily Gladstone’s presence at the Met Gala is not only a personal achievement but a landmark moment for the visibility and appreciation of Native American fashion and artistry on a global stage.
