The Met Gala is back with a bang this year, promising a star-studded affair and a plethora of iconic fashion moments. Officially known as the Costume Institute Benefit, the gala is an annual fundraising event held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This year, the event will take place on May 6.
Traditionally held on the first Monday in May, the Met Gala is renowned as the most prestigious fashion event of the year. The Costume Institute, now named the Anna Wintour Costume Center, pays homage to Vogue’s editor-in-chief, who has spearheaded the event for nearly three decades.
What is this year’s Met Gala theme?
The theme for this year’s Met Gala is “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” In addition to the theme, which sets the overall tone of the event, there’s also a specific “dress code.”
This year’s dress code, “The Garden of Time,” draws inspiration from J.G. Ballard‘s 1962 short story of the same name. According to Vogue, attendees are expected to interpret the theme with botanical and floral-inspired looks.
The exhibition will showcase approximately 250 rare items from the Costume Institute’s collection, featuring designs by iconic fashion houses like Schiaparelli and Dior. The exhibition will be divided into three main “zones” – Land, Sea, and Sky – to represent natural resources and sustainable design.
Who will be hosting the Met Gala?
This year’s Met Gala hosts include an impressive lineup featuring Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny and Chris Hemsworth. They follow in the footsteps of last year’s star-studded group, which included Penelope Cruz, Michaela Coel, Roger Federer, Dua Lipa, and Vogue’s iconic editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour.
Red carpet arrivals typically commence around 17:00 ET and wrap up by 20:00 ET. Most red carpet livestreams, including Vogue’s coverage, will kick off at 18:00 ET.
How is the Met Gala guest list chosen?
Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief and the lead chairperson of the Met Gala since 1995, is responsible for overseeing both the benefit committee and the guest list.
Meanwhile, Vogue staffers assist in assembling the list of invitees.