The Met Gala is upon us, and with the theme—and hosts—finally demystified, our guests are surely wondering what to wear.
For those who need a recap: The exhibit “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” will spotlight the Costume Institute’s formidable archive of historical garments too fragile to ever be worn again (hence the “sleeping beauty” designation.) The theme also refers to the 1962 story “The Garden of Time” by J.G. Ballard, which deals with themes of paradise and dystopia against the backdrop of a lush landscape. Also touching on the natural elements of the theme, the exhibit will be divided into three sub-categories: land, sea, and sky.
Luckily, in a wonderful coincidence, several shows from last month’s couture week seemed to inadvertently fit the brief. So we’ve gathered some of the over-the-top looks from the spring 2024 couture shows that perhaps our guests—including our lovely co-hosts—could rock on the red carpet this first Monday in May. After all, there are no wallflowers at this garden party!
Simone Rocha for Jean Paul Gaultier
The Irish designer’s turn at the helm of Gaultier’s couture label more than satisfies the “land” and “sea” brief of the Met’s land, sea, and sky divisions. We’d love to see Zendaya or J.Lo in the seashell minidress with the snake embroidery, or the metallic cascading flower motif top. Extra points for wearing the sailor hat!
Giambattista Valli
Leave it to Giambattista Valli to pull out a romantic show. For anyone keen to try out the pantless trend, this black bodysuit with 3D off-the-shoulder flowers will certainly do the trick. Or, stay more classic in this voluminous drop-waisted floral skirt with balloon sleeves to match.
Chanel
Virginie Viard loves a floral and spring 2024’s couture show proved no different. Anyone who wears these airy tulle creations will surely look like they’ve emerged from the Garden of Time.
Gaurav Gupta
These sculptural works by Gurav Gupta remind us of wisps of air or a rushing stream—perfectly in line with our sub-themes. J.Lo, who has previously rocked headwear on the carpet, would look especially fabulous in this metallic silver number.
Christian Dior
Maria Grazia Chiuri recreates a splendid, sun-drenched garden on this strapless, tea-length dress that would surely be a welcome sight on the carpet. Or, channel a creature of the sky with this feathered top and trousers.
Miss Sohee
Anyone who opts for a burst of colourful florals from Miss Sohee’s spring 2024 couture show would surely be the belle of the ball.
Elie Saab
When Saab sent his trademark whimsical styles waltzing down the runway, we knew they’d be right on-theme. His effervescent florals are perfectly befitting the Countess from “The Garden of Time.”
This article was originally published on Vogue.com.
