Making statements at the Met Gala

Celebrities who made people’s heads turn on the white carpet

Ashley Nichols / Assistant Arts and Culture Editor / The USD Vista

Since 1948, the Met Gala continues to serve fashion, fame, and history. Each year, the elite of the world gather in Manhattan’s own Metropolitan Museum of Art. After there was no event in 2020, this year the world watched on the edge of their seats to see the famous flaunt what we don’t have and say what we need to hear. 

Each year the Met Gala embraces a different theme for attendees to follow. Each individual uses their creative freedom to interpret the theme on their own. 

Many designers and elite decided to use this year’s theme of “American Independence” as an opportunity to make a statement, and some definitely made an impactful one.The most famous and iconic politicians, musicians, and actors all came together to put on a “PR Super Bowl.”

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne is a model, feminist activist, and an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her Met Gala looks for the past nine years have flattered many dedicated fans. Her 2021 outfit was an all white ensemble with the words “PEG the PATRIARCHY” written in red on a bulletproof vest. With such a large following, Cara Delevingne knew that if she wanted to say something to the public, this is where she could do  it.

Some used the Gala to break boundaries and start a conversation, but Delevingne didn’t need to say anything at all. 

Dior’s head designer, Maria Grazia Chiuri, wanted to collaborate with Delevingne to make a simple statement that didn’t call for much imagination. “PEG the PATRIARCHY” stands for female empowerment and gender equality. They wanted to literally “stick it to the man.”

NikkieTutorials

Nikkie de Jager (NikkieTutorials), a Youtube sensation from a young age, was inspired to represent Marsha “pay it no mind” Johnson. In Jan. of 2020, NikkieTutorials came out as transgender after a lot of media speculation. Now, she is an icon for the transgender community. 

For the Met Gala, NikkieTutorials wanted to pay homage to Johnson, who was at the forefront of the Stonewall riots and an icon for the LGBTQ+ community. 

NikkieTutorials’ dress is created by Edwin Oudshoorn Couture, and it’s filled with pink, yellow, and red flowers. 18k gold flowers, leaves and buds surround the crown, which was created by goldsmith Digna Gorkovoi. The flower crown was the main characteristic that connected her to Johnson’s legacy. Johnson’s death is widely known as a tragedy and that is why there is still a great amount of  attention on this historic figure. 

NikkieTutorials’ beautiful tribute is the true meaning behind the Met Gala’s theme this year: to honor those who changed society and made America a better place.

Dan Levy

Dan Levy, the star of Schitt’s Creek, wore the designer Loewe, created by Johnathan Anderson. This particular piece featured an outline of two men kissing over a background of world maps. It also had enormous puff-sleeves and pants, which continues the theme of the world map. 

This design was based off of the late artist and LGBTQ+ activist, David Wojnarowicz. In Loewe’s design, Wojnarowicz’s drawing was hand stitched with beads onto a polo.

The message behind this beautiful statement was to look away from hate and celebrate LGBTQ+ love and visibility. The imagery of this clothing offers a hopeful message. Jonathan Anderson and Dan Levy used this look as a way to celebrate love, resilience, and the joy of community.

AOC – Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

The Representative of New York City arrived at the Met Gala in a custom Brother Vellies ivory wool jacket dress with the message “Tax the Rich.” This particular look at the Met Gala caused a lot of buzz’ in the media. 

Each seat at the Met Gala costs $35,000, which according to critics pulls from the focus of the message AOC is trying to send.  Designers and corporate sponsors paid $35,000 for her seat. 

There is still a lot of speculation and critiques stating how “hypocritical” it was to make such a strong statement. Many socialists were stunned by her message because so many believe the Met Gala is best to be shunned. On the other hand, there is still a large amount of Met Gala viewers who support her message. The Met Gala brings together a group of diversified figures under the public eye.      Attendees use their platform to start a conversation, pay homage to icons, support all forms of love, promote gender equa   lity, and inspire fashion enthusiasts everywhere. 

This year’s Met Gala left a great impact for the next years to follow.