The meaning of The Met

The Met Gala. The event where the someone's of the world, decked out in avant-garde fashion descend upon the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Turning its grand steps into a runway of couture and glamor. But have you ever wondered what this star centered spectacle was originally all about? Let’s go back to 1948. The Met Gala, formally known as the Costume Institute Gala, was created by Eleanor Lambert, a legendary publicist who knew a thing or two about making headlines. At first, the gala was a modest event, a midnight dinner with a $50 ticket to raise funds for the newly founded Costume Institute. The focus was purely on fashion as an art form, a celebration of the history of fashion and its impact on culture.

Moving into the late 20th century. The gala began its transformation under the direction of Diana Vreeland, a former Vogue editor. With her flair for the dramatic, Vreeland’s influence brought in an era where the gala morphed from a niche event into a glamorous event. It became a magnet for celebrities, artists, and socialites, each eager to flaunt their unique sense of style. Suddenly, the Met Gala was not just about fundraising for fashion exhibitions but a dazzling showcase of who wore what, who arrived with whom, and who managed to steal the spotlight. Today, the Met Gala is the Oscars of fashion. It’s where celebrities and influencers alike serve looks that give viewers like us a look into what they can do fashion wise. Each interpreting the year’s theme through their own lens. Speaking of which, this year’s theme was “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” and the official dress code was the gardens of time. Bringing to life ideas of whimsy, elegance and beauty. 

 The Met Gala has always been more than just a fancy party. It's a platform where celebrities can showcase their fashion savvy and cultural influence. Each outfit is a statement, a reflection of their personality, creativity, and sometimes, a subtle gesture to current societal themes. Execution of themes of the met in my opinion inspire viewers like us, maybe more so fashion buffs like me, rather than your average joe. But they give us insight into what can be done, how Avant Garde and unique we can be with what we wear. And express ourselves in ways that represent us. Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room or rather, the TikTok star on the red carpet. In recent years, the guest list has expanded beyond Hollywood A-listers and supermodels to include social media influencers and TikTok sensations. It’s a sign of the times, really. These digital stars command millions of followers and have significant cultural clout, making them appealing additions to an event that thrives on visibility and buzz.

However, this shift has sparked a debate. Netizens argue that inviting TikTok stars takes away from the gala's exclusivity and high profile. After all, the Met Gala has always been seen as the pinnacle of sophistication, a night where art, fashion, and high society meet. But is the inclusion of influencers really diminishing its profile, or merely reflecting an evolving cultural landscape where fame is more diverse? One thing's for sure; the Met Gala is constantly evolving to stay relevant. Whether you’re Team Hollywood or Team TikTok, the gala’s allure lies in its ability to captivate and surprise. It’s a night where tradition meets innovation, where the past is reimagined through the lens of the present. So, whether it’s a gown inspired by Carl Lagerfeld’s sketches or a TikTok star’s viral ensemble, the Met Gala remains a testament to the ever-changing fashion and fame as the red carpet unrolls each year. 

2024, Layla Gregory @thehubdigital.com

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