The ultimate recap in case your invite was lost in the mail

by VIVIAN YANG ★ SEPTEMBER 14, 2021

New York City can finally breathe again. The Met Gala is back. One of the most anticipated events in pop culture, fondly referred to as the “Oscars of the fashion world,” has 110% satisfied our Vogue-starved eyes. It’s been WAY too long since we’ve seen the faces of our favorite heartthrobs draped in trains and diamonds and dressed to the nines.

There has been chatter about the 2021 Met Gala guest list since the stars stepped off the carpet in 2019. Some argue that the Met Gala is straying away from traditions and sophistication, but this year’s guest list was TAILOR-MADE for the theme and deeply represents the fashion industry’s core values.

The theme of this year's ball is “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.” With Emma Chamberlain walking alongside Anna Wintour, we can all agree that America is undergoing a fashion renaissance. This year, the Met Gala clearly focused on celebrating the younger generation’s fearless role they play in shaping America. Young designers and creators are the voices that will be making a difference in America’s social and political climate.

As one of the youngest co-chairs this year, Billie Eilish embraces her femininity in a light pink ball gown with a long, flowing train by Oscar de la Renta. Billie’s look will definitely strike up conversations about confidence.

The other co-chairs also understood the assignment. Just take a look at Timothee Chalamet…he is shooting us straight “the-quiet-cool-and-INCREDIBLY-sexy-highschool-boy” (my type, tbh) vibes. The laid-back all-white ensemble by Haider Ackermann, featuring a satin tuxedo jacket, white sweats, and converse shoes, curating the perfect mix of America's uptown and downtown cultures.

Now let’s talk about the looks that will live in our heads rent-free for the rest of the year.

Kim Kardashian rolled up to the function in a fully black bodycon dress masking herself from head to toe. This unconventional move has all of our jaws dropped. Honestly, we are all just EXTREMELY proud of Kim’s growth these past years. She is inviting conversations that reach beyond the surface.

Imam Humamm was glowing from inside and out in a sheer, star-spangled dress. The look could not be more fitting for the theme. We are in LOVE.

When Rhiana and ASAP Rocky stepped on the beige carpet, we all said a silent prayer thanking God that we live in the same timeline as them.

It is all heart eyes for the people’s favorite, Dan Levy. Even his outfit demonstrates the queer representation that he reinvented with his role in Schitt’s Creek.

Of course, we will NEVER stop obsessing over the iconic BFF duo: Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid.

This year was definitely a turning point for the Met Gala featuring new faces and ideas, but if it means we get to spark important conversations and see more unique looks, then WHO CARES if Addison Rae is invited! Her acting in He’s All That vs. Timmy in Call Me By Your Name...no like, same thing.

Anyways, here are some other notable looks for the books:

Naomi Osaka