Met Gala 2023: Between past and present

As the awaited Met Gala is approaching, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is getting ready for the memorable event.

History

Met Gala started in 1948 under the name of “midnight supper” under the leadership of Eleanor Lambert. The infamous event used to be held as the Costume Institute Benefit, and was transformed into the current Met Gala. Anna Wintour is recognised for her efforts which resulted in one of the most anticipated fashion events in the world.

The event is accompanied with the annual spring exhibit, which attracts numerous visitors to the museum. The annual exhibition, and corresponding gala theme, is created by the institute’s chief curator Andrew Bolton. This year’s exhibition is held under the title of Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.

A controversial theme

It was announced earlier this year’s theme is honouring Karl Lagerfeld. Honouring the designer’s memory is expected to take many forms, including wearing his fashion pieces among others. Some experts are also anticipating Choupette, Lagerfeld’s Birman cat, might be referenced in the red carpet looks.

The theme’s choice has drawn criticism due to instances where Lagerfeld’s statements were found to be racist, misogynist, or fatphobic. Lagerfeld was cited to criticize #MeToo movement for being “too much.” He also fat-shamed several celebrities, like Adele for instance, and criticized #MeToo movement for being “too much.”

The cost of this year’s Gala is said to be $50,000 for an individual ticket, and tables start at $300,000. The attendees are expected to be about 400 guests with five distinguished hosts. The party’s earnings are used for the benefit of the Met’s Costume Institute, a self-funding department.