After a year-long hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Met Gala returned in September 2021 with a renewed sense of excitement. Held on the second Monday of September rather than its usual May slot, the event was a celebration of American fashion, with the theme “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.”
The theme’s broadness allowed celebrities to interpret it in various ways. Some, like Billie Eilish in an Oscar de la Renta gown reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour, embraced a more classic American fashion aesthetic. Others, like Dan Levy in a deconstructed Thom Browne ensemble, used their attire to make bolder statements about American identity.
Co-chaired by actress Gemma Chan, singer Billie Eilish, tennis champion Naomi Osaka, and poet laureate Amanda Gorman, the 2021 Met Gala was a star-studded affair. Celebrities from all walks of life turned heads on the red carpet, with unforgettable looks from Rihanna in a black Balenciaga coat dress to Lil Nas X in a gold Versace suit with a flowing white train a588g.com/.
One of the most talked-about moments of the night was Democratic U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s dress by Aurora James. The white off-the-shoulder gown featured the phrase “Tax the Rich” emblazoned on the back in red lettering, a bold political statement that resonated with many.
Despite the scaled-back guest list due to COVID restrictions, the 2021 Met Gala remained a night of extravagant fashion and celebrity glamour. It served as a reminder of the power of fashion to spark conversation, celebrate creativity, and showcase American style in all its diverse forms.