Monday marked the date of the 2023 Met Gala, notably referred to as “fashion’s biggest night out,” and last night’s looks proved this title to be true. The annual event raises money for the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is put on by Vogue and Anna Wintour, hosting an extremely exclusive guest list. This year’s theme was ‘Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty’ honoring the late creative director of Chanel and his incredible fashion influence. Despite Karl Lagerfeld’s many controversies and disputable reputation, his pioneering impact on the fashion industry and power are undeniable. Let’s take a look at some of this year’s best (and worst) reflections of Lagerfeld’s influence.
One of last night’s shockingly unique looks was Doja Cat living up to her name, dressed as Lagerfeld’s iconic and beloved cat, Choupette. Dressed in Oscar de la Renta and prosthetics by Malina Stearns, Doja even acted the part, meowing for all her interview responses.
One of the best looks of the night was Anne Hathaway, stunningly rocking a white tweed Versace gown. This look was inspired by not only Lagerfeld, and his heavy utilization of tweed, but also by a past Elizabeth Hurley look, designed by Versace, with the integration of safety pins. Anne had not attended a Met Gala since 2018, but after this look, I can see her becoming a regular on this red carpet!
Taking the cake as the most head-turning and wild look was Jared Leto. Leto dressed as Lagerfeld’s cat Choupette, as was Doja Cat, but Leto took his homage in a much more literal direction, unrecognizable in his full cat get-up. Leto later changed into a tamer all-black ensemble.
Wearing beautifully detailed custom Schiaparelli and Emefa Cole SMO Gold, Michaela Coel uniquely honored Lagerfeld’s love for elegance in embellishment.
Another one of my personal favorite looks was Anok Yai’s, who attended the event in a stunning dress designed by Prabal Gurung and a Piers Atkinson mask.
Nicole Kidman brought back the 2004 Chanel gown she wore in the iconic Chanel No. 5 commercial. Kidman beautifully honored Karl and their friendship by representing not only this gorgeous gown but the art corresponding to it.
Kendall Jenner, one of Lagerfeld’s most famous muses, rocked a full sequin Marc Jacob’s bodysuit. When interviewed Kendall emotionally thanked Lagerfeld for embracing her at such a young age and for his contribution towards the amazing modeling career she has today.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky arrived fashionably late in custom Valentino and Bvlgari jewelry. Rocky took inspiration from Lagerfeld’s love for Scotland and a similar skirt he wore for a 2004 Chanel show, while also incorporating his own modern stylistic choices through studded denim and stacked belts. Rihanna on the other hand wore a cape covered in floral appliqués, one of Lagerfeld’s favorite touches, over a white bridal-esque gown. Could this be a hint that the two will soon get engaged?
Dua Lipa looked absolutely fabulous in Chanel FW92 Couture accessorizing with a 100-carat Tiffany & Co. diamond. Everyone knew that had to be at least one Chanel bridal gown at this year’s Met Gala and Dua Lipa lived up to everyone’s expectations in this gown.
Although some did not love the Miu Miu suit worn by Emma Chamberlain last night, it is amazing to see her continuous influence and integration into the luxury fashion space. Chamberlain has notably broken the barrier between influencers and celebrity high society, two areas that before her rarely ever seemed to collaborate. Her presence at fashion’s biggest and most exclusive event is inspiring to not only her viewers and fans but also to influencers and content creators across the globe.
This year’s attendees did an excellent job of reminiscing on Karl’s iconic influence, taste and work across numerous fashion houses outside of just Chanel. Common themes included black and white monochromes, ties and collars, blazers, pearls, tweed, and oddly enough… cats!
To view the hundreds of other looks from last night, check out vogue.com. Additionally, if you plan to be in New York City this year, check out the highly anticipated corresponding exhibit. I know I will be!
