Celebrities from various industries are set to grace the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the first Monday in May, a tradition synonymous with the highly anticipated Met Gala. Hosted by none other than fashion icon Anna Wintour, this exclusive event brings together stars from film, fashion, music, sports, politics, and social media for an evening of cocktails, dinner, and an immersive experience into the latest exhibit, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” As preparations for fashion’s grandest night unfold, The Associated Press presents its annual guide for the 2024 Met Gala.
Who is Hosting the Met Gala 2024?
Bad Bunny might croon, “Anna Wintour Me Preguntó,” as Jennifer Lopez, the ultimate multi-hyphenate, gears up for yet another exciting role in her already bustling year. Meanwhile, in the realm of Marvel stars, Zendaya continues to captivate on red carpets with her striking ensembles from “Dune” and “Challengers,” while Chris Hemsworth ventures into new territory, leaving behind Mjolnir for the upcoming “Furiosa.” Interestingly, Hemsworth is a first-time attendee at the gala, joining the ranks of celebrities and industry luminaries eagerly anticipated by none other than Wintour herself.
WHAT IS THE MET GALA THEME?
While the theme centers around “sleeping beauties,” it deviates from traditional fairytales. Titled “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” the exhibit showcases garments from the Costume Institute’s collection that have been dormant, some too delicate to be displayed upright for fear of damage. Curator Andrew Bolton has curated 250 pieces spanning four centuries for the showcase.
Accompanying the theme is a dress code, this year dubbed “The Garden of Time.” However, interpretations of both the theme and dress code tend to be flexible. Therefore, there’s a possibility that you might spot an Aurora-inspired ensemble gracing the red carpet after all.
HOW CAN I WATCH?
You can catch the entire carpet event live on Vogue’s livestream. If you happen to be in New York City, you can join other fans lining Fifth Avenue or further east on Madison, behind barricades, to catch a glimpse of the arrivals. Additionally, the AP will be streaming live departures from the Mark Hotel, where many gala attendees prepare for the event.
WHAT HAPPENS INSIDE?
Upon entering the museum, guests are greeted by an impressively large flower arrangement in the lobby, often accompanied by the melodic tunes of an orchestra nearby. Attendees then have the option to enjoy cocktails or explore the exhibit. Cocktail hour typically runs from around 6 pm to 8 pm, followed by dinner. However, it’s not uncommon for the most renowned or those aiming to make a grand entrance to arrive fashionably later in the evening.
