The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute’s spring 2024 exhibition—Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion—features 250 historic garments that are too fragile to be worn again. These garments are put on display in a temperature-controlled environment to preserve them for future generations. The annual fundraising gala for the museum took place last night, where hundreds of the world’s most notable public figures showcased their own delicate and unique looks that were too fragile to be worn beyond the event. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski wore stunning outfits, with Jenner donning a never-before-worn piece of Givenchy-era Lee McQueen and Ratajkowski posing in an Atelier Versace gown from 2001.
Kendall Jenner, who wore a lace Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood corset dress to the after-parties, was among the many celebrities who changed into different outfits throughout the evening. Emily Ratajkowski also changed into a dress designed by McQueen during his time at Givenchy later in the evening. The evening’s after-parties featured a variety of incredible looks, including Janelle Monáe in a googly-eyed Area mini and Michèle Lamy in a sculptural Rick Owens dress. These looks showcased the unique and innovative designs of top fashion houses and designers, creating a visually stunning display of fashion at the Met Gala.
The exhibition showcases not only the historic garments on display, but also the creativity and artistry of contemporary designers and their ability to create intricate and delicate pieces of clothing. The gala attendees highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating fashion as an art form, with their outfits representing a fusion of past and present styles. The event brought together some of the most iconic figures in the fashion world, showcasing their individual tastes and interpretations of the theme of reawakening fashion.
The Met Gala after-parties provided a platform for celebrities to continue showcasing their style and creativity, with attendees like Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski changing into different outfits for each event. These after-parties allowed for a more relaxed and fun atmosphere, where guests could mingle and enjoy each other’s company while dressed in their most glamorous attire. The variety of looks at the after-parties reflected the diverse range of designers and styles represented at the Met Gala, creating a visual feast for fashion enthusiasts and spectators alike.
Overall, the Met Gala and its accompanying exhibition highlighted the importance of fashion as a form of artistic expression and cultural significance. The event brought together a diverse group of individuals from the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and art to celebrate and showcase the beauty and creativity of clothing. The after-parties provided a continuation of this celebration, allowing guests to further express themselves through their fashion choices and enjoy a night of glamour and excitement. The event serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of fashion on society and the importance of preserving and celebrating its history and innovation.
