Another year marks yet another MET Gala leaving a trail of memorable fashion in its wake. With the gala’s cancellation in 2020, it is only natural that this was one of the most anticipated red carpet events post-quarantine. There are a plethora of stunning looks that graced the carpet, from the gilded cage of Iman’s feather skirt and matching headpiece to the visual dream that was Quannah Chasinghorse’s turquoise and silver accents paying homage to the Navajo Tribe. The theme of the night was In America: A Lexicon of Fashion. In alignment with the freedom symbolized, high society took that as an initiative to express the freedom of wearing whatever they wanted.
Are we really going to sit here and ponder over whether that is painfully on brand or not? (Which, yes, it is extremely in character.) In the spirit of celebrating freedom in fashion, we will explore a more collegiate interpretation of this year’s theme.
History lives through art. We see it in fashion, architecture, and music, which brings us to the inspirations that created this first look. Jabulani pays tribute to Billie Holiday, a jazz and swing swinger from the ’30s that innovated the genre we know today. This look is adorned with glitter, from a full face to the sparkly white dress and gloves climb up her forearm. To wrap this homage as if it is a delicate package meant to be cherished, Jabulani completes the look with a headpiece made of gardenias.
Since we’re on the topic of history and fashion, this next look captures the evolution of America and how different cultures and movements have impacted runaways and the meaning of couture. Coletti’s inspiration combines women’s fashion from the 1800s and punk subculture from the 1980s – Black fabric and lace are abundant, complete with a dramatic eye and full hair. The body chains and jewelry give the nod to the Spring 1998 collection hosted by Dior and Galliano.
“One’s culture is what defines them.” These are the words Balaji used to express the inspirations behind this next look. She captures a modern take on the sari by combining the dress with pearl flourishes and a soft brown color palette. This look is a stunning blend of culture and couture, appealing to champagne and vintage visions. The timelessness of the piece is not lost, only amplified by its additional elegance.
Tropes are heavily prevalent in American media, from high school football’s epic highs and lows to remake after remakes of beloved concepts. Redhead plays into the culture of these themes with a look inspired by Prom. Her interpretation of a Prom Queen Gone Couture features a large skirt with lots of tulles and a long train and a corset bodice pulling the piece together. A pearl-adorned face and heavy tiara are integral to the look, but the true finishing detail is the prom queen sash that crosses over her shoulder.
In America: A Lexicon of Fashion provided a perfect opportunity to explore figures and movements that have inspired American Fashion. It’s a lush history that can inspire a whole collection of creative concepts, some of which, not represented on the red carpet.
Well, there is a Part 02 for a reason.
Words by Bri Shufford.
Graphic by Fai McCurdy.
Interviewees are Jamila Jabulani, Dina Coletti, Sanaa Balaji and Asia Redhead