The Met Gala on Monday featured an array of celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez and Zendaya, showcasing elaborate nature-themed outfits on a lush green carpet adorned with live foliage. Lopez stunned in a silver leaf-adorned gown, while Zendaya made a striking double appearance in peacock-inspired attire. Serving as co-chairs of the fundraiser, both received enthusiastic cheers from fashion enthusiasts gathered outside The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Lopez, donning Schiaparelli, exuded glamour in a nearly-naked gown, marking her 14th appearance at the Met Gala. Meanwhile, Zendaya opted for Maison Margiela by John Gallliano, featuring vibrant hues of blue and green with leaf accents, complemented by a headpiece embellished with flowers by Alexander McQueen. She later closed the carpet in a black Givenchy Haute Couture gown, also designed by Galliano, accentuated with floral headgear.
Embracing the event's theme, "The Garden of Time," inspired by J.G. Ballard's short story, flowers dominated the attire. Mindy Kaling turned heads in a sand-colored ensemble by Indian couturier Gaurav Gupta, while Usher added a touch of mystery in an Alexander McQueen ensemble by Seán McGirr, holding a single red rose.
Notable fashion statements included Gigi Hadid's Thom Browne creation adorned with millions of microbeads, and Sarah Jessica Parker's meticulous Alice in Wonderland-inspired look by Richard Quinn. Ayo Edebiri made her Met Gala debut in a youthful white ensemble by Loewe, reminiscent of a colorful garden.
Serena Williams and Ariana Grande opted for bold metallic looks, while Cardi B. made a grand entrance in a statement black gown by Windowsen, accessorized with a high black turban. Kendall Jenner channeled a Gothic aesthetic in Givenchy, contrasting with Kylie Jenner's Old Hollywood-inspired Oscar de la Renta attire. Dua Lipa embraced a rock 'n' roll vibe in black by Marc Jacobs.
The gala's theme, "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion," inspired creative interpretations, with attendees like Barry Keoghan embodying the Mad Hatter and Demi Moore donning elaborate garden-inspired wings by Harris Reed. Indigenous representation was highlighted by Lily Gladstone, who expressed pride in showcasing her cultural heritage through fashion.
Despite some notable absences, the event showcased a diverse range of styles and interpretations, with attendees pushing boundaries and celebrating individuality. As early reactions poured in, industry experts noted trends such as bold blush and elaborate floral embellishments, signalling a departure from minimalist aesthetics towards vibrant expressions of creativity.