After a year of cancellation due to the pandemic, the Met Gala triumphantly returned on September 13, 2021, marking the culmination of a shortened New York Fashion Week. The theme, echoing the cultural mood, was “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” celebrating American fashion’s history and its ongoing influence.

Co-chaired by Vogue’s Anna Wintour alongside a fresh-faced group including Timothée Chalamet, Billie Eilish, Amanda Gorman, and Naomi Osaka, the gala embraced a new generation of tastemakers. The red carpet was a kaleidoscope of interpretations of the theme. From the classically elegant gowns of Amanda Gorman and Ella Emhoff to the audacious, gender-bending outfit of Troye Sivan, celebrities pushed boundaries and sparked conversation.

Lil Nas X made a grand entrance, outfitted in a golden Versace suit of armor that he dramatically revealed to be a flowing robe. Billie Eilish ditched her signature dark look for a custom Oscar de la Renta peach gown, a surprising yet captivating choice. Lady Gaga offered a multi-layered performance art piece, starting in a voluminous blue cape by Christopher John Rogers before stripping down to a sequined bodysuit and platform boots ismus.info/.

The night wasn’t just about over-the-top fashion. The “Lexicon of Fashion” theme highlighted the often-unheard stories of American fashion, bringing to light the contributions of Black designers, immigrants, and unsung heroes of the industry.

The 2021 Met Gala was a night of fashion, spectacle, and cultural commentary. It marked a return to normalcy for the fashion world, while simultaneously prompting reflection on American identity and the ever-evolving landscape of fashion.