The Met Gala, also known as the Costume Institute Benefit or the Met Ball, returned in 2023 with a spectacular event honouring the late fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the gala drew in an impressive array of A-list celebrities, fashion designers, and industry insiders. The event showcased extravagant outfits inspired by Lagerfeld’s iconic style and celebrated his contributions to the fashion world. Here are the facts and highlights from the unforgettable Met Gala 2023.
The theme of the 2023 Met Gala was “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.” Attendees were encouraged to dress in outfits that paid homage to Lagerfeld’s signature aesthetic and innovative designs. The theme aimed to celebrate Lagerfeld’s remarkable career and his influence on the fashion industry.
This year’s co-chairs for the Met Gala were retired tennis star Roger Federer, Grammy-winning singer Dua Lipa, renowned actress Penélope Cruz, multi-talented writer, actor, and producer Michaela Coel, and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Their presence added star power and a diverse range of talents to the event.
The invitation-only gala welcomed approximately 400 guests, comprising Hollywood celebrities, fashion industry icons, models, musicians, and influential figures. Prominent attendees included:
- Kim Kardashian: Kim Kardashian made a striking appearance in a Schiaparelli design dripping with pearls, inspired by her visit to the Karl Lagerfeld office in Paris.
- Karlie Kloss: Karlie Kloss graced the red carpet, showcasing her pregnancy announcement at the event.
- Serena Williams: Serena Williams also used the Met Gala as an opportunity to reveal her pregnancy.
- Nicole Kidman: Nicole Kidman paid tribute to Lagerfeld by wearing a vintage Chanel creation.
- Naomi Campbell: Supermodel Naomi Campbell stunned in a vintage Chanel gown, paying homage to Lagerfeld’s iconic designs.
- Dua Lipa: Co-chair Dua Lipa showcased her fashion-forward style in a custom Chanel outfit.
- Gisele Bündchen: Gisele Bündchen honored Lagerfeld by wearing vintage Chanel on the red carpet.
- Margot Robbie: Margot Robbie chose a custom Chanel dress to pay tribute to Lagerfeld’s legacy.
- Vanessa Kirby: Vanessa Kirby opted for a vintage Chloé gown, adding her unique touch to the theme.
Special Highlights:
- Choupette Tribute: Lagerfeld’s beloved cat, Choupette, was honored during the event. Several celebrities, including Doja Cat and Jared Leto, dressed as Choupette, showcasing their admiration for Lagerfeld and his feline companion.
- Fashion Homages: Many attendees donned Lagerfeld’s own creations or collaborated with the fashion houses associated with him, such as Chanel, Fendi, and Karl Lagerfeld Couture. The gala showcased Lagerfeld’s influence on the fashion world through the unique interpretations of his style by renowned designers and rival fashion houses.
- Extravagant Outfits: The red carpet was adorned with lavish and eye-catching outfits, featuring pearls, starched collars, and black and white elements, reminiscent of Lagerfeld’s iconic fashion choices.
- Pregnancy Announcements: The Met Gala 2023 witnessed pregnancy announcements by Karlie Kloss and Serena Williams, adding an exciting twist to the event and the attendees’ personal journeys.
The Met Gala 2023 paid tribute to the legendary Karl Lagerfeld, celebrating his extraordinary career and profound impact on the fashion industry. The star-studded event featured breathtaking outfits, special tributes to Lagerfeld’s style, and surprising announcements. Through a remarkable display of fashion creativity and reverence for Lagerfeld’s work, the gala once again solidified its status as the pinnacle of celebrity fashion events.