Karen Kohler
The 2021 Met Gala was held on Sept. 13 with the theme “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.” Since there was no Met Gala last year due to the pandemic, people were especially eager to see the looks this year. However, many people agreed that all in all it was a bit of a disappointment, largely because the theme was very vague, and not many people followed it. It was certainly not all a waste though, because there were some highlights and amazing looks to be admired.
Two stars that particularly stood out were model Anok Yai and actress Yara Shahidi. Both their looks paid tribute to iconic artist Josephine Baker. Their astounding looks put them on the radars of many who did not know who they were previously, since they are both rising stars. Hopefully we get to see their careers blossom and their appearances at future Met Galas.
Many others also paid tribute to artists and activists with their looks to fit the theme. Another way that some people followed the theme was with denim, which is the route Actress Lupita Nyong’o took. Singer Ciara made a bold choice and wore a football jersey-inspired dress. This look was definitely out there and a bit ridiculous, but she does get credit for fitting the theme. Actress Lili Reinhart donned a gorgeous dress that fit the theme in a unique way by including the state flower of all 50 states.
A lot of bigger stars were either unable to attend or were, in all honesty, a bit of a disappointment. Kim Kardashian’s look was at least memorable, with a full black outfit that covered even her face. Her sister Kendall took an opposite approach with a gorgeous, sparkling, silver dress that did not disappoint. Celebrity couples Justin Beiber and Hailey Baldwin and Shawn Mendes and Camilla Cabello honestly just looked like they were going to a high school prom. Meanwhile, Timothée Chalamet still managed to garner a lot of attention even though he quite literally wore converse.
This was many rising celebrities’ first Met Gala, including actress and model Hunter Schafer, who looked stunning with a metallic-two piece and caught attention with her all-white contacts. There were also many influencers there for the first time, which caused some controversy, but most people were pleased with YouTuber Emma Chamberlain’s appearance and her bedazzled golden dress.
All in all, this year’s Met Gala had some stand-outs but would have fared better with a more specific theme, which we will hopefully get next time.
