The much-anticipated annual Met Gala has arrived, drawing our beloved stars to the spotlight for fashion’s grandest affair. Taking place on the first Monday of May, this event delves beyond the glitz of the red carpet, rooted in a deeper purpose. Originating in 1948 under the guidance of fashion luminary Eleanor Lambert, the Met Gala began as a charitable endeavor to support the Costume Institute, coinciding with the unveiling of its yearly exhibit. Initially conceived as a midnight dinner, the gala has since blossomed into a pinnacle of New York City’s social calendar, under the stewardship of Vogue Magazine’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, and her co-chairs. Together, they curate every aspect, from the guest list to the annual theme. In 2024, the Gala embraced the theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” symbolizing fashion’s ever-renewing essence, mirroring the evening’s Garden of Time dress code. While often conflated, the Gala’s theme and the red carpet dress code stand distinct. This year’s attire theme, The Garden of Time, inspired a flurry of interpretations from stars and stylists alike, shaping unforgettable moments on the red carpet. Here’s a glimpse at four standout looks from the evening.

Zendaya

The Met Gala is fashion’s biggest night and Zendaya did not disappoint when she stepped onto the carpet. As one of this year’s co-chairs for the gala, Zendaya was one of the first to grace the carpet, and her look nailed the theme (like always). Styled by her longtime stylist and friend, Law Roach, Zendaya’s first look was a period gown by Margiela. If there’s one star that commits to serving killer looks that nail the theme, it is definitely Miss Zendaya Coleman. 

Mona Patel

Is it safe to say that the Met Gala is actually one of Law Roach’s biggest nights? Every star he styles does not fail to stun every single time; this time, it was Mona Patel and her moving butterflies. The Indian-born fashion entrepreneur captivated everybody and caused quite a stir on social media with her Met Gala debut look. Her enchanting look had everyone gushing over her. Styled by Law Roach, Mona Patel stepped onto the carpet in a stunning custom creation by Iris Van Herpen. Her structured gown had attached mechanics that made the butterflies featured on the sleeves of the gown flap their wings as she walked the carpet. Mona Patel’s outfit was the perfect embodiment of the dress code and a truly unforgettable look. 

Tyla

Speaking of unforgettable looks and stunning Met Gala debuts, let us take a moment to marvel over South Africa’s very own superstar, Tyla. Tyla is on a roll and we love to see it! From winning a Grammy at just 22 years old to releasing an amazing debut studio album and now making an unforgettable Met Gala debut with a stunning look, Tyla is unstoppable. Styled by Katie Qian, Tyla’s outfit was a unique look that perfectly aligned with the evening’s dress code, “The Garden of Time”, ‘Time’ being the keyword in Tyla’s outfit. The singer wore a custom Balmain gown that sculpted her body and featured a long train- a bold and creative choice that symbolizes the sands of time. Carrying an hourglass accessory in her hand and sand-like glitter on her shoulders, the star clearly knows how to commit to a dress code. She completed her look with a short bob, brilliant cat eye, and a glowy makeup look. Tyla’s debut at the Met was extraordinary. 

Mindy Kaling

Tyla wasn’t the only one who took on a unique interpretation of the dress code. Mindy Kaling wore a marvellous sculptural gown, designed by the Indian fashion genius Gaurav Gupta, called ‘The Melting Flower of Time’. The gown had voluminous, nude-coloured layers that arched over her head and down her back, creating a breathtaking train with a striking pattern of loops and swirls. Mindy Kaling’s look was exceptional. 

From the stunning archival look from Zendaya to Tyla’s breathtaking debut, the Met Gala saw an array of exceptional looks that were captivating and unique. The fashion world is still reeling in from the glitz and glamour of it all.