From Bad Bunny’s Tudor-inspired hat to shoes resembling cloven hooves, and Zendaya’s delicate hummingbird perched on her neck, the hosts set the tone at fashion’s biggest night: the annual Met Gala in New York.

Florals, animals, and vintage couture were ubiquitous at the so-called Oscars of the East Coast, a massive fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute.

This year, the extravaganza’s dress code is “The Garden of Time,” drawing inspiration from the 1962 short story of the same name by English writer J.G. Ballard.

Essentially, the event revolves around the transient aspect of beauty—a profound theme to explore amidst the luminaries gracing this year’s gala.

Zendaya, as co-host, stole the spotlight on the green and cream carpet, marking her first appearance at the Met Gala since 2019.

The 27-year-old star’s early arrival was highly anticipated, draped in jewel-toned lame, organza, and satin crafted by John Galliano. Vines adorned her duchess corset and arms, while a seemingly real hummingbird nestled delicately into her neck, adding to the drama of her ensemble.

Later in the evening, Zendaya surprised attendees with a second appearance, this time donning a dramatic, Mexican Gothic-inspired black ensemble. Her two outfits served as bookends to the fashion parade, highlighting the ephemeral nature of beauty.

While most attendees opted to evoke awakenings and life, many seemingly defied the theme by showcasing the immortality of fashion through the centuries. Numerous outfits featured flourishes reminiscent of the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing the timeless allure of style.

Singer Lana Del Rey opted to emphasize decay, with stark sculptural twigs rising from her gown to hold a veil of tulle like a canopy over her head.

South African singer Tyla made a statement with her strapless Balmain gown, evoking the sands of time right down to the hourglass purse. The gown was sculpted so tightly to her body that she required assistance to ascend the steps at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny channeled a Tudor matador aesthetic, sporting a sweeping hat and a black bouquet. The only pops of color were his bright red inseam and the patent shine of his cloven shoes.

Cardi B made a striking entrance in funereal black, her ensemble featuring a train so expansive that it required nine tuxedoed men to lift it up the stairs.

“It’s a black rose,” she explained to journalists.

Celebrity interpretations of Met Gala themes have historically varied widely and often sparked social media debates. However, attendees at this year’s event seemed to largely shrug off the pressure.

“I don’t even think there’s pressure at all, I think it’s more of an opportunity,” remarked actor Colman Domingo, who sported a lily-colored caped jacket and wide-leg trousers while carrying a bouquet, speaking to journalists.

The theme of the Met Gala this year parallels the exhibit “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” which highlights the most fragile pieces from the Costume Institute’s extensive collection.

The exhibit, open to the public from May 10 through September 2, showcases clothing so delicate that it cannot be displayed on mannequins.

Funding from the blockbuster Met Gala is crucial for the Costume Institute, supporting its work in organizing exhibitions and acquiring new pieces for its collection.

The Met Gala, originally launched in 1948, was initially an exclusive affair reserved for New York’s high society. In the 1990s, Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour took the helm, reshaping the event into a glamorous catwalk for the rich and famous.

For the 2024 edition, a single ticket commanded a hefty $75,000, while tables started at $350,000. The 2023 gala, which honored the late designer Karl Lagerfeld, set a record by raising nearly $22 million.

Despite its extravagant reputation, the inner workings of the Met Gala remain shrouded in mystery.

“Something mysterious, I’m sure, and unexpected,” remarked actor Jeff Goldblum to journalists on the red carpet, clad as a count adorned in Tiffany jewels.

While guests are expected to explore the exhibit, it’s worth noting that stars like Rihanna, known for her unparalleled command of the red carpet, did not attend this year’s gala, despite having performed in the past.

The gala remains a social media sensation for celebrity enthusiasts, and once again this year, both the event and the exhibit are co-sponsored by TikTok.

The tech world made its presence felt alongside luminaries from music, film, politics, and sports on the red carpet, with TikTok CEO Shou Chew, also an honorary co-chair, among the attendees.

Outside the event, several hundred protesters opposing the war in Gaza demonstrated nearby, leading to tightened security and several arrests as stars made their way down the red carpet.

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