The 2023 Met Gala, the annual fashion extravaganza at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was a star-studded affair celebrating the iconic designer Karl Lagerfeld. The theme, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” saw celebrities interpreting the designer’s multifaceted legacy through their attire. From whimsical Chanel to avant-garde punk, the red carpet was a dazzling display of fashion creativity.
The theme – A Line of Beauty:
The 2023 Met Gala theme celebrated Lagerfeld’s incredible career, which spanned over six decades and touched countless fashion houses, including Chanel, Fendi, and his own namesake label. His work was characterized by an unparalleled understanding of the female form, a love of theatricality, and a constant push for boundaries. The attendees’ interpretations of Lagerfeld’s “line of beauty” were as diverse as the designer himself, showcasing the enduring influence of his vision.
Top attendees and their showstopping ensembles:
Rihanna
The pregnant pop queen slayed in a custom Schiaparelli gown featuring a voluminous black taffeta skirt and a gold breastplate adorned with crystals. Rihanna’s look embodied Lagerfeld’s signature blend of classicism and boldness.
Billie Eilish
The singer made a dramatic statement in a custom Gucci gown featuring a corseted bodice and a deconstructed train. The black and green color scheme and gothic influences echoed Lagerfeld’s punk rock sensibilities.
Lizzo
The singer exuded confidence in a custom Thom Browne gown featuring a voluminous skirt and a plunging neckline. The vibrant yellow color and playful ruffles were a nod to Lagerfeld’s love of color and theatricality.
Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa paid tribute to Lagerfeld’s Chanel legacy in a vintage 1992 gown by the fashion house. The dramatic silhouette and feathered embellishments embodied the designer’s love for high fashion and theatrical elegance.
Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman rewore a vintage 2004 Chanel No. 5 dress, honoring both Lagerfeld’s iconic fragrance and his timeless designs. The sleek silhouette and shimmering embellishments exuded timeless Hollywood glamour.
Olivia Wilde
Olivia Wilde channeled Lagerfeld’s Chloé era in a vintage 1983 “violin dress” designed by the maestro himself. The unique silhouette and bold black and white stripes showcased Lagerfeld’s avant-garde vision and ability to redefine classic cuts.
Gisele Bündchen
Gisele Bündchen stunned in a vintage 2007 Chanel Haute Couture gown she previously wore in a Harper’s Bazaar feature photographed by Lagerfeld. The intricate beading and delicate feathers showcased Lagerfeld’s exceptional craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
Naomi Campbell
Naomi Campbell slayed in a vintage 2010 Chanel couture gown. The bold black and white stripes and dramatic feathered sleeves embodied Lagerfeld’s love for graphic patterns and theatrical touches.
Jared Leto
Jared Leto channeled Lagerfeld’s androgynous style in a custom Gucci tuxedo with a ruffled bib and feathered sleeves. The bold look challenged traditional gender norms, echoing Lagerfeld’s love for pushing boundaries and redefining fashion conventions.
Doja Cat
Doja’s dress was a custom Oscar de la Renta masterpiece. It was a white backless hooded gown with a shimmering silver sequined bodice and a cascading feathered mermaid train. The dress reportedly took over 5000 hours to create, with 350,000 beads meticulously hand-sewn.
Conan Gray
The charming and fashion-forward Conan Gray graced the 2023 Met Gala red carpet with a custom Balmain ensemble that perfectly channeled Karl Lagerfeld’s signature black-and-white elegance with a touch of youthful flair.
Anne Hathaway
Anne opted for a custom Valentino gown, showcasing Lagerfeld’s iconic brand in a new light. The dress featured a double-breasted blazer top in black and white tweed, attached to a matching mini dress underneath.
Beyond the Red Carpet:
The Met Gala is more than just a celebrity fashion show. It’s a fundraiser for the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and this year’s event raised millions to support future exhibitions. The 2023 Met Gala was a fitting tribute to Karl Lagerfeld, a true fashion icon whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate.