Every year, the Met Gala celebrates the creativity of the fashion industry by gathering Hollywood celebrities and high-end designers in an epic show of flamboyance. Although delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gala finally occurred on September 13th, showcasing a wide variety of outfits all aimed at addressing this year’s theme: In America: A Lexicon of Fashion. This theme was arguably one of the most exciting and unpredictable to date due to American fashion’s vast history. But as with any Met Gala, there are bold hits and even bolder misses. Regardless, the 2021 Met Gala has stayed consistent in creating memorable fashion statements for years to come. From stunning couture to enigmatic garments, here are the best (and worst) looks from the 2021 Met Gala.
One of the most unique garments presented on the runway was Grimes’ Iris van Herpen grey semi-sheer dress, inspired by the book Dune by Frank Herbert. Apart from the many retro looks showcased at the Met Gala, Grimes displayed a futuristic look that still managed to pay homage to the past. Even more impressive, however, were the accessories, particularly a metallic grey mask from the original 1984 Dune movie which added the detail necessary to fully symbolize the film within her complete outfit. Grimes’ sleek, tied-back hair only accentuated what could only be described as the futuristic chic in her runway look.
Euphoria actress Barbie Ferreira also delivered a stunning runway, showcasing a modern portrayal of the 1920’s “flapper,” with Swarovski crystals and pearls draped against her shoulders and legs. At the same time, the design shapes her figure, providing a contrast in layering which is simply stunning to look at. A monument to the immense precision taken to create the garment, Ferreira’s crystal-made gown beautifully extracts from previous American styles and reinvents it to fit the Met Gala. Coupled with matching high heels, Ferreira’s runway is almost unmatched in precision and dedication to the theme.
Unfortunately, not all of the Met Gala’s looks were as impressive. Pete Davidson’s three-quarter white coat coupled with a black shirt draping past his knees only looked incomplete. The shirt essentially functioned as a skirt, given the fact that Pete Davidson did not wear any lower body attire besides black socks and shoes. Even with his white-black color combo extending to his hair, his entire runway still left something to be desired. Additionally, his runway did not really speak to the theme, which is disappointing given that Thom Browne, the designer of Pete Davidson’s Met Gala look, has had a significant impact on contemporary American fashion.
Perhaps an even more bizarre look presented on the runway was Kim Petras’ “Horse Girl” outfit. The pop superstar emphasized that her look, specifically the giant horse head centered on the upper body of her floral gown, was done to represent “all horse girls and horse humans here.” Although it could be argued that horse riding is certainly American, Petras’ look in regards to addressing the theme is a reach at best. While the floral gown can be appreciated, due to the gown possibly signifying American fashion’s usage of floral patterns particularly in feminine clothing, it does not pair well with a sculpted horse head placed on the bodice of the superstar. Nonetheless, this Collina Strada gown will certainly be remembered, for better or for worse.
The horse-head gown is hilarious and fun. I also like how Petras has her hair in a very long ponytail to match!