Fashion fanatics and pop culture followers alike tuned into last night’s much anticipated Met Gala. The event, hosted annually by Vogue in New York City, always has a distinctive theme that guests must follow. This years theme was “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.” Long-time Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour was a lifelong friend of the German designer, who passed away in 2019.
A now viral TikTok posted by a user named Marques (@alexrussostanaccount) recounted a quote from the late Lagerfeld. In fashion writer Patrick Mauriès’s book The World According to Karl, he was quoted saying “Think pink. But don’t wear it.” He additionally once said that sweatpants were “a sign of being defeated in life.” Some celebrities who hit the Met seemed to blatantly ignore these Karlisms.
@theeinterviewgirl AND SHE SERVED #violadavis #violadavismetgala #metgala2023 #karllagerfeld
The gala serves as a benefit event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and this year a corresponding collection of Lagerfeld’s work was displayed. The late designer was highly controversial. Though his designs for Chanel, Fendi, Valentino, and his own eponymous brand were widely applauded, his comments are what landed him in hot water.
Lagerfeld spoke on the Me Too movement following its widespread impact on the entertainment industry. The online movement encouraged women to come forward about their experiences with sexual assault. He said, “If you don’t want your pants pulled about, don’t become a model! Join a nunnery, there’ll always be a place for you in the convent. They’re recruiting even!”
The Celebrities Breaking Karl’s Rules
Throughout his decades long career, he frequently spoke out against the inclusion of plus sized models. Grammy winning singer-songwriter, designer and flutist Lizzo, an outspoken advocate for body positivity, ate french fries in her Chanel outfit. Lizzo’s clothing line Yitty seeks to provide inclusive fashion for all bodies, and the trailblazer was sure to carry that message with her to the Met.
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The singer was met with an outpouring of support on social media. Many fans commented that Lagerfeld would “roll in his grave” at the sight of Lizzo in one of his designs.
Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony (EGOT) winner Viola Davis wore a vibrant pink Valentino gown, appearing to violate Lagerfeld’s pink free policy. Davis’ red carpet fashion looks have long been praised, and critics of Lagerfeld appreciated the elegant defiance of the late designer, whether it was intentional or not.
After the main event, the gala goers changed up their looks for a series of after parties in New York City. Model Irina Shayk wore glittery heels and a bold statement necklace, paired with another of Lagerfeld’s worst nightmares–sweatpants. Erin Fitzpatrick (@fitz.erin) of Who What Wear made the connection in a viral TikTok.
@fitz.erin “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat.” —Karl Lagerfeld #metgala2023 #irinashayk #metgalaafterparty
None of the celebrities have confirmed or denied whether their Gala outfit choices were intentional critiques of Lagerfeld. In the spirit of Lizzo, let them eat fries.
