The Met Gala Theme is More Important Than You Think

For the general public, the first Monday of May is the one time we collectively start our weeks in “fashion police” mode, usually from comfortable couches and beds. Outside of our praise and critiques, the Met Gala’s themes have always brought to life some of the most intricate stories across art, history, literature, and fashion. The Met Gala focuses on funding the Costume Department at New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute and the announcement of the theme is what usually kicks off the excitement.

This year, the theme is "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion: Garden of Time." If you’re thinking of Disney's "Sleeping Beauty" you’re unfortunately mistaken. The theme references another story– the 1962 short story "Garden of Time" by J.G. Ballard. "The Garden of Time" is a story of a couple living away from human civilization in peace in a garden full of flowers, and as human civilization comes close to them, they cut one of the flowers, which allows the couple more time to stay away from human civilization. So, more and more, as they try to buy time away from human civilization, the more flowers die until there are no more, and they are met with the real world. With this background, we can expect this year’s looks to have more thought behind them than blooming and decaying flowers, The Met Gala has previously drawn inspiration from literature for its themes, raising the question of which themes and outfits stood out as the most exceptional. Here are some of our favorite Met Gala themes throughout the years.

2018: “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination”

Based on audience reception and buzz, the 2018 Met Gala theme has been deemed as one of, if not the best theme. The theme was built around the influence of religious symbols and attire in fashion. The exhibition showcased how religious iconography, symbolism, and imagery have inspired designers throughout history, to create garments that reflect both sacred and secular themes. Catholic aspects and symbols can be seen in major fashion houses' designs such as Coco Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana. However, the theme did have controversy, as many people saw it as a mockery of religion itself, especially in the Catholic community.

2015: “China: Through the Looking Glass”

In 2015, the Met Gala highlighted the influence of Asian art and film culture on Western culture with the theme “China: Through the Looking Glass.” Since the sixteenth century, European interaction with China has influenced the West through the art and objects of the East, even influencing popular Western designer Yves Saint Laurent. While the theme was about influence, there was controversy about the chance of appropriation, such as the typical Western stereotypes associated with Asian culture found in various Western films and art.

Best looks for 2015: “China: Through the Looking Glass”

2016: “Manus x Machina”

The 2016, Met Gala theme showcased the partnership between handcrafted garments and the advancement of technology in fashion, highlighting how technology aids in bringing these products to life. While this theme aimed to demonstrate the harmony between the two, technology has influenced design and production, which differs from how technology is viewed in fashion now. This theme was 8 years ago but is still relevant today as more fast-fashion companies emerge, causing tension in the fashion community as they find ways to replicate long craftsmanship for cheaper and for the masses.

2004: “Dangerous Liaisons: Fashion and Furniture in the 18th Century”

This theme pokes at the luxurious lifestyle of the 18th century through its lavish furniture and outfits. During this time in history,it was the reign of Louis XV and Louis XVI, where fashion and beauty were valued on wealth and delicacy.

Best Looks: 2004: “Dangerous Liaisons: Fashion and Furniture in the 18th Century”

 1974:  “Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design”

The Met Gala in 1974 celebrated the theme of "Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design." The event focused on the elegant and luxurious fashion styles popular in Hollywood during its Golden Age. Guests at the gala likely dressed in outfits inspired by the glamorous attire worn by movie stars from that time. It was a chance for people to showcase their interpretation of classic Hollywood fashion, capturing the timeless charm of that era. This also sparked the trend of the naked dress, which Cher showcased.

Best looks 1974:  “Romantic and Glamorous Hollywood Design”