The Glamorous Evolution of the Met Gala

Every spring, the steps of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art transform into a red carpet runway for one of the most iconic nights in fashion: the Met Gala. But behind the glittering gowns, avant-garde outfits, and A-list attendees lies a rich history that dates back over 70 years.

The Met Gala, formally known as the Costume Institute Benefit, was founded in 1948 by fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert. At the time, it was simply a fundraising dinner to support the newly established Costume Institute at the Met. Tickets were $50, and the event was relatively modest by today’s standards.

That all changed when Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour took the reins in 1995. Under her leadership, the gala evolved into a high-stakes fusion of fashion, art, and celebrity culture. Each year, the event kicks off the Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibit with a theme that inspires designers and guests alike to push creative boundaries—think “Camp: Notes on Fashion” (2019) or “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” (2018).

Beyond its dazzling looks and viral moments, the Met Gala remains a major fundraiser. It consistently brings in millions for the museum, with ticket prices soaring into the tens of thousands—often requiring a coveted invite to attend. From its humble beginnings to its current status as the “Super Bowl of fashion,” the Met Gala is more than a party—it's a cultural touchstone that reflects the evolving relationship between art, identity, and style.

On Monday, May 5, 2025, the Met Gala will return with a groundbreaking theme: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. This exhibition, inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, will explore the rich history of Black men's fashion, from the 18th century to the present day. The dress code, "Tailored for You," encourages guests to creatively interpret menswear, celebrating individuality and style. The event will be co-chaired by Anna Wintour, Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, with LeBron James serving as honorary chair. 

Stay tuned for our recap of the event in a special edition of the blog on May 7, 2025.