The 2024 Met Gala promises a night of breathtaking fashion, where the past and present intertwine under the evocative theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” and the enigmatic dress code, “The Garden of Time.”
The dress code is inspired by The Garden of Time by J. G. Ballard. A 1962 short story that reminds us to cherish beauty while we have it, for time inevitably fades it. It celebrates the wonder of human existence, where creation and destruction constantly dance in a cycle. Just like the relentless passage of time, life itself is a force that both builds and breaks, leaving nothing untouched. Ballard is known to write about dystopian modernity, bleak artificial landscapes, and the psychological effects of technological, social, or environmental developments.
But there’s a deeper layer to this theme. The “Sleeping Beauties” exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of fashion’s ephemeral nature. Many of the showcased garments, due to their delicate state, can never be worn again. This adds a layer of intrigue to the “Garden of Time” dress code, suggesting a reawakening of these slumbering garments through the creative interpretations of the night’s attendees.
The theme invites a multitude of interpretations. Expect to see floral motifs and botanical references bloom alongside abstract concepts like the cyclical nature of time and the fleeting essence of trends. This opens the door for designers and celebrities to push boundaries and showcase their artistic vision in a way that transcends the ordinary.
Probably expecting to see designers translating this concept into gowns that evoke the fragility of delicate fabrics, utilizing sheer materials, intricate embroidery, and floral embellishments. Whereas others might take a more metaphorical approach, using their creations to represent the passage of time, the cyclical nature of trends, or the enduring legacy of fashion history.
The Met Gala offers a glimpse into the treasures housed within the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. The “Sleeping Beauties” exhibition presents a rare opportunity to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating these irreplaceable garments. From the intricate beadwork of an 18th-century gown to the innovative construction of a 20th-century avant-garde piece, the exhibition offers a journey through the evolution of fashion and its impact on culture.
This year had marked the tenth year that I had anticipated and adored the designs that stunned outisde The Metropolitan Museum of Art. My original spark of inspiration to look into the field of costume design and fashion design. This year I hand picked some of my favourites and noticed an array of lavendar, lime green, cremes and nudes that painted the carpet reminscent of garden and fairytale. Overall, this happens to be one of the btter ones with an array of perceptions on the theme and dress code. My personal favourites Class of Loewe, Givenchy archives and McQueen. Oscar de la Renta nevere fails to impress me.
