The first Monday of May is fast approaching, which only means one thing in the fashion and celebrity world – The Met Gala! Read on to learn more about the star-studded event and how to put together outfits inspired by this year’s theme. 

The Met Gala, Explained

The Met Gala, which is often dubbed as ‘Fashion’s Biggest Night’ and even the ‘Oscars of Fashion’, is a fundraising event that the Metropolitan Museum of Art puts on each year to raise money for its Costume Institute and to signal the opening of their newest blockbuster exhibition.

On the night, the most notable names in fashion, pop culture, music, sports, film, politics – you name it – arrive to ascend the iconic stairs of the Met in New York City’s Upper East side and spend the night partying in the museum. Everyone who is invited will dress according to a set theme to match what will be on display in the new exhibit. 

Met Gala 2022 Theme

This year’s Met Gala theme, In America: An Anthology of Fashion, picks up where last year’s event left off (part one was titled, In America: A Lexicon of Fashion) with an exploration of American cinema and a dress code of ‘Gilded Glamour, White Tie’.

For a bit of historical context: Gilded Glamour is a reference to America’s Gilded Age, the 30-year period of rapid industrialization and massive economic growth during the 19th century. Popular fashion of the rich and well-connected during this time can only be described as maximalist. Think: opulent crystal embellishments, frilly lace, rich jewel towns, exaggerated details and structured silhouettes. 

How to Achieve a Gilded Glamour-Inspired Look

If attending the Met Gala this year isn’t exactly in the cards, you can still rent key pieces to make the theme wearable for everyday. Look out for:

• Corset tops
• Voluminous accents – ruffles, puff sleeves etc.
• Bows
• Luxurious textures – lace, satin, velvet etc.
• Crystal, pearl and metallic accessories   

We tapped our resident Style Director, Blaire Walsh to create 3 everyday outfits inspired by this year’s Met Gala theme. Which one would you rent?

Look 1

Perfect for dinner and drinks or a date night at the theater, this velvet two-piece suit set with paisley detailing is equal parts sophisticated and chic. Style it with a top in a warm, jewel tone shade and sleek metallic accessories.

Look 2

Wear this to any springtime soirée for a sweet, feminine look. The black clutch toughens up the lace and ruffles of the dress while the pearl earrings and simple gold bangle add the perfect amount of polish.

Look 3:

Be the best-dressed guest at any upcoming spring or summer wedding in this asymmetrical plaid dress. The lightweight linen fabric and large bow that cinches you in at the waist makes this dress super flattering and comfortable. Pair it with a velvet clutch and crystal earrings for a wearable take on the “Gilded Glamour” theme.