The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art has announced its theme for the 2027 Met Gala, moving away from high-profile designer retrospectives to focus on ordinary clothing. The exhibition, titled ‘extraORDINARY: fashion and the poetics of the everyday’, will explore how designers transform familiar garments and commonplace materials into high fashion.
This announcement comes just months after the planned retrospective for designer John Galliano was cancelled. The Galliano exhibit had faced significant backlash due to the designer’s past convictions for hate crimes. The shift to a theme centered on jeans, T-shirts, and puffer coats has left many in the fashion industry questioning the direction of the prestigious event.
Reactions to the Theme Shift
Dana Thomas, author of ‘Gods and Kings: The Rise and Fall of Alexander McQueen and John Galliano’, criticized the decision as tone deaf. She argued that the theme reinforces the idea that the Costume Institute team is out of touch with the public. Thomas suggested the museum missed a significant opportunity to honor fashion icons who died this year, such as Dolly Parton and Bob Mackie. She noted that a tribute to Parton, featuring Mackie’s iconic designs, would have generated goodwill and revenue.
Malique Morris, a correspondent at Line Sheet, described the theme as underwhelming. He stated that the public feels robbed of the Galliano exhibit, making the new theme feel like a consolation prize. Some commentators have pointed out the extreme contrast between the fantastical, theatrical work of Galliano and the mundane nature of the new theme.
However, not all reactions were negative. Celebrity stylist and Vogue contributor Marian Kwei called the theme ‘very clever’. She described it as a simple yet complex celebration of design itself. Kwei suggested the theme could serve as a palette cleanser for the red carpet, moving away from viral moments and high glamour toward well-fitting, story-driven outfits.
Red Carpet Implications
The dress code for the Met Gala, traditionally derived from the exhibition theme, has not yet been announced. The event is scheduled for May 3, 2027. Industry observers speculate that the theme might encourage celebrities to wear denim or other staples, similar to past appearances. In 2024, actress Da’vine Joy Randolph wore an all-denim outfit by Zac Posen. Last year, pop star Troye Sivan wore devoré-effect jeans by Prada.
The focus on everyday materials could also highlight designers who work with unconventional items. Swedish designer Ellen Hodakova Larsson creates couture gowns from belt buckles and old spoons. Dutch designer Duran Lantink is known for his work with everyday materials. These artists might find a natural fit for the exhibition.
Despite the ordinary theme, the event remains exclusive. Individual tickets for the gala last year cost approximately $100,000. The guest list is personally overseen by Anna Wintour. Kwei warned that the theme could lead to missteps if attendees are not attuned to the context. She noted that the intersection of high-cost exclusivity and everyday fashion will be a key point of interest for the red carpet.
Source: The Guardian
