The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute Gala, famously known as the Met Gala, returned in full splendor. This year Met Gala 2024 theme was “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” and the dress code “The Garden of Time,” fashion’s biggest night witnessed a breathtaking display of avant-garde looks and unexpected sartorial choices. The dress code, “The Garden of Time,” inspired by J.G. Ballard’s 1962 short story, brought an array of botanical and floral-themed ensembles that transformed the red carpet into a vibrant tableau of living art.
Floral Fantasies and Sculptural Silhouettes
Tyla made a literal statement on time, draped in a custom Balmain ensemble “Sands of time” with an hourglass filled with cascading sand, a striking representation of time’s fleeting nature. She brought the theme to life.
Zendaya, one of the evening’s co-chairs, arrived in full bloom, looking as if she had stepped straight out of a painting in her first Maison Margiela outfit by John Galliano. Her outfit featured a deep blue and green tulle with structured sleeves and greenery detailing, topped with a matching fascinator, setting a high standard for the night. She later graced the carpet with a second look, a Spring/Summer 1996 Givenchy haute couture gown from the archives of Lily et Cie by Rita Watnick.
Nicki Minaj transformed into a floral sculpture, thanks to an avant-garde design by Marni’s Francesco Risso. The 5’2″ rap icon never disappoints when it comes to making a statement on the Met Gala carpet proving once again why she is a red carpet favorite.
Cardi B, known for her iconic Met Gala looks, stole the show once again. Embracing the theme with a dark twist, she appeared like a villainous figure emerging from ominous clouds, reminding us that even in death, time stands still.
Unfortunately, the anticipated appearance of Rihanna was missed as she was reported by PEOPLE to have fallen ill after arriving in New York.
Timeless Elegance and Archival Treasures
Kendall Jenner, a seasoned Met Gala attendee, hit the carpet wearing a never-before-worn vintage Givenchy gown from 1999. After her archival Alexander McQueen look for the main event, she donned not one but two after-party ensembles: a white angelic Givenchy by Alexander McQueen dress and a corseted custom Vivienne Westwood number.
Gwendoline Christie and Ashley Graham, both in custom Maison Margiela, continued to impress with their thematic and bold choices, showing the versatility and depth of the evening’s fashion narrative. Model Anok Yai returned to the Met Gala in style, solidifying her reputation as a red-carpet powerhouse.
Naomi Campbell flowed like a river through the Garden of Time in stunning Burberry, the Smith siblings, Willow and Jaden, showcased their iconic style, making a memorable appearance together.
Co-chair Bad Bunny and actress Gwendoline Christie were among those who chose custom Maison Margiela for the evening, alongside Anna Wintour in Loewe and Ashley Graham in Ludovic de Saint Sernin, each adding their unique flair to the night’s fashion narrative.
Maternity Glamour and Debut Appearances
Pregnant model Adwoa Aboah, the founder of Gurls Talk, made her first red carpet appearance with her baby bump, donning a red H&M skirt set, a ruffled crop top, and a rhinestoned bra, setting the bar high for maternity style.
Pamela Anderson, a first-time Met Gala attendee, looked like an absolute princess in her Oscar de la Renta gown, while Barbie herself, Ms. Angel Reese, celebrated her 22nd birthday at fashion’s biggest night.
Some Controversial Beauties of Met Gala 2024
Doja Cat stunned the internet with her controversial Vetements attire, sporting chrome tears and a towel—an homage to her signature eccentric style. Her second look featured a dripping-wet t-shirt from the same designer. The star had some popular brands “Bounty – Paper towel” defending her bold choices on social media.
Kim Kardashian raised eyebrows and sparking questions about her ribs the its intricate design and fit the tightly fitted silver corset ensemble she wore by Maison Margiela, designed by John Galliano,
After-Party Looks: Continuation of Glamour
As the night progressed, celebrities transitioned to their after-party attire, maintaining the high fashion stakes. Janelle Monae dazzled in an Area S/S ‘24 outfit embellished with eyeballs, not unexpected.
Behind the Scenes: The Craftsmanship at Met Gala 2024
The Met Gala is not just about the glamour on the red carpet; it’s also a celebration of the artistry and craftsmanship behind the garments. Alia Bhatt’s look, which took 1,905 hours to create, involved the work of 163 people. Gigi Hadid’s dress, adorned with 2.8 million beads, took 5,000 hours and the efforts of 70 people to complete. Ashley Graham’s dress required 500 hours of meticulous handwork, while J.Lo’s dress featured over 2.5 million silver foil bugles and beads, with 800 hours of hand labor.
The 2024 Met Gala was a true moment of time and a reflection of the enduring power of fashion, as designers, artists, and celebrities came together to create unforgettable moments that will be etched in the annals of fashion history.
