Even in a cycle of never-ending runways and red carpets, the Met Gala always stands out as the must-watch fashion event of the year. This year’s Met Gala theme was Gilded Glamour, a reference to the Gilded Age of American history (roughly 1870-1900.) While the applicability of the theme to each outfit is debatable (looking at you, Kim K!), analyzing this year’s outfits is a masterclass in this season’s trending fabrics, colors, and silhouettes. Read on to discover the six major trends we saw on the first Monday in May, and how you can recreate the look for yourself.
Corsets
Corsets are quickly becoming the staple accessory of the 2020s. Whether incorporated into a dress or left as-is, celebrities used the corset to recall the dramatic shapes of the Gilded Age. Wear your corset as a statement bodice, or incorporated into a dress, such as on the moire confection worn by SZA. While corsets are typically thought of as womenswear, many male celebrities, including style icon Lenny Kravitz, rocked a corset to show their all-gender potential.
Maximalist Embellishments
Feathers, gold, and sparkle, oh my! For a literal take on the theme, Gilded Glamour, celebrities pulled out all the stops and drenched themselves in over-the-top embellishments. Embrace this maximalist trend with brightly colored feathers or sparkling vintage trims.
Oversized Coats & Capes
Inspired by fashion pioneer Andre Leon Talley‘s iconic silhouette, dramatic capes and oversized coats were the must-have statement piece at this year’s Met Gala. This trend was perhaps the most playful of the night; designers used the large swaths of fabric as a blank canvas for embellishments, textural fabrics, and more.
21st Century Americana
It’s safe to say that while the Gilded Age was gilded for some, it was certainly not gilded for all. Some celebrities took the opportunity to make a statement on 21st century America, or to pay homage to those so often overlooked by history. As the Met exhibit’s theme is In America: A Lexicon of Fashion, it is refreshing and important for designers and celebrities to reflect on the prism of the American experience.
Androgyny
As many fashion brands blur the lines between menswear and womenswear, the stars on the red carpet decided to follow suit. The traditional tuxedo was remixed and updated to create genderless, yet gorgeous silhouettes. Some, like Oscar Isaac, opted for a straight skirt, while others, like Jessie Buckley, played with gender in a pinstriped suit and cheeky, drawn-on mustache.
Old Hollywood
Last year’s Met Gala was filled with references to Old Hollywood, and this year was no different. While definitely not “on-theme,” these looks take inspiration from the Golden Age of Hollywood and the cinema stars of the 1930s-50s. Kim Kardashian’s look, a vintage dress from Marilyn Monroe’s wardrobe, was one of the most talked about looks of the night. Meanwhile, some chose to accessorize with a close-fitting hood or turban to evoke the 1920s and 30s.
If you got an invite to this year’s Met Gala, what would you have worn? Let us know in the comments down below!
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