Sadly, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Gala has become nothing more than a celebrity spectacle. With the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, and Justin Bieber showing up looking like clowns, the event-of-the-year that used to be an evening of elegance for people in the fashion industry and their supporters has descended into Hollywood Trash Night.
This year’s gala celebrated the opening of China: Through the Looking Glass, an exhibition that explores the inspiration Chinese culture has had on western fashion. Some attendees (and their stylists) took the theme of the exhibit and went mad with oversized headdresses and excessive sequins. Others came up with their own theme – Raunchy – and sported revealing gowns that showed off what, I guess, they think is their best assets. Too bad for them.
Sorry SJP this is not a good look for you.
In my online research I spotted only two well-dressed women – Cher, which is surprising as she is usually leading the Trash Pack, and Chinese actress Ni Ni. Notice they chose elegant gowns with the subtle interest in the fabric. Excess isn’t necessary nor is semi-nudity. Follow a theme, yes, but don’t overdo it.
Ni Ni looks lovely in Ralph Lauren.
Cher with the designer who dressed her, Marc Jacobs.
OverDressed for Life 
Agreed! The celebrities who show up compete for adulation…..and invest in shock value. I thought Amal Clooney’s gown was stunning…..couture, but not too pretentious or theatrical.
Our whole society dress code could be stepped up a notch, including some return to modesty as elegance.