THIS EVENING, CELEBRITIES will be gathering at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for the very fancy Met Ball (or Met Gala, as it’s also known).
It’s been a huge event in the fashion lover’s calendar for years now, but what even is a Met Ball? Let us explain.
What is it even for?
To give it its full title, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute benefit raises money for the museum’s fashion wing. Fashion houses (Burberry, Gucci etc) typically buy tables, and dress everyone at their particular table. Basically, it’s a great opportunity for the big fashion designers to show off.
Since 1999, it has been run by Vogue editor Anna Wintour, who has pretty much single-handedly made it into the huge deal it is today. To show the extent of her power – this year, she’s not allowing selfies at the bash. And you know how much celebs love selfies.
But whyyy is it such a big deal?
Because all of the biggest pop stars, actors and models in the world get dressed up in fabulous clothes, come to the gala and get pissed, basically.
If it weren’t for the Met Ball, how would we know that Reese Witherspoon would be gas to have a pint with? Exactly.
You may remember that at last year’s event, Jay Z and Solange had what ended up being a very public spat in an elevator at the Gala’s after party.
Things happen at the Met Gala. They just do.
Is there a theme?
Yes. This year, the theme is China’s influence on Western fashion, ahead of the opening of a new exhibit at the museum, China: Through The Looking Glass.
Expect some people to go the whole hog – but if you’ve kept up with previous Met Balls, you’ll know the theme is taken very lightly. These were some attempts at ‘punk’ from 2013:
Who will be there?
Everyone. And we mean everyone. Some of the rumoured attendees this year include Benedict Cumberbatch, Anne Hathaway, Katy Perry, Rihanna and Kimye. A ridiculous amount of celebrities, to be honest.
Keep an eye out on Instagram for ‘getting ready’ snaps and thinly-veiled humblebrags. We know we will be.
