By F. Jackson
The theme of the 2021 Met Gala was officially “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” but few people expected the conclusion of the long-awaited event. Most would argue that the event was mostly an outpouring of “social media influencers.”
Whilst media creators had previously been welcomed to the elite fashion event (YouTuber Liza Koshy has served as a red carpet host), this year saw a record number of internet superstars in attendance. Among the well-known creators who made the cut were Emma Chamberlain, Addison Rae, Nikkie Tutorials, Dixie D’Amelio, Madison Beer, Jackie Aina, and Eugene Lee Yang. This guest list, of course, caused an uproar for every media outlet.
It’s not like having a strong interest in fashion is necessary for an invitation. However, it was surprising to discover that the majority of the influencers were YouTube and Tiktok creators, rather than fashion influencers. Denzel Dion, Rickey Thompson and Bretman Rock, for example, are fashion/Instagram influencers. Their audiences expressed their disappointment for not being able to see these creators who are often influential with their fashion statements. These opportunities, though, rarely are given to influencers on Instagram – many of whom began as bloggers. That’s not to say they aren’t great at what they do. Many mainstream influencers have built extremely lucrative careers, have their own beauty, home, or clothing lines, and have millions of followers. However, they don’t enjoy the same fame and perks as video creators.
The idea for this Met Gala focused around America and American ideals, therefore not many people were dressed…appropriately. In contrast to the influencers, several “authentic” celebrities were dressed in quite interesting attire. Ciara, an award-winning singer and dancer, wore a football-inspired rib-cutout gown with shoulder pads, as well as her husband’s, Russell Wilson, super bowl ring and his jersey number. What’s more American than American football, right?
Billie Eilish also stood out when she wore a peach Oscar de la Renta corset ball gown with off-the-shoulder tulle embellishments and a long train flowing behind her, a big departure from her typical grunge-inspired style. Her 1940’s inspired glam gave off old-fashioned Hollywood glamour vibes. While this could be her inspiration, one could also assum she was going for Barbie, considering that is one of America’s most famous dolls.
Surprisingly, Kim Kardashian had one of the best looks of the night. While she is well-known for always giving her all at the Met, it was startling yet intriguing to witness someone dressed in a monochrome suit from head to toe, literally. The reality personality graced a one-of-a-kind combination that included a long-sleeve turtleneck bodysuit underneath an oversize T-shirt dress with a long pleated train. The edgy ensemble included jersey boots, gloves, and a mask that covered her face and head.
Although these looks made for quite an evening, it would have been wonderful to see more known personalities that have been seamlessly contributing to the fashion world. It’d be refreshing if Instagram offered some of the innovators who helped turn their platform into a fashion and retail destination a place at the table. Not everyone has a large enough platform, yet their voices are just as powerful.
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