Met Gala 2023 - live: Karl Lagerfeld theme blamed for ‘boring’ best dressed list as cockroach steals show

The 2023 Met Gala has come to a close.

This year’s theme was “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”, which aimed to “examine the life” of the late designer’s fashion legacy.

But while many celebrities showed off their best Lagerfeld-inspired looks, viewers have branded fashion’s biggest night as “boring” due to the black-and-white ensembles that ruled the evening.

However, an unexpected guest went viral for its red carpet appearance. A cockroach was spotted on the red carpet and photographed before being “stepped on”, leading to viewers mourning its death.

The decision to feature the German designer so prominently has also attracted criticism given his history of controversial remarks.

Models protested ahead of the event, with Jameela Jamil among those who condemned the choice. Concerns were also raised about his past fatphobic and body-shaming comments.

In line with the theme, guests were informed that the “most authentic approach” for the Met Gala 2023 dress code would be “to wear an archival look from one of the labels Lagerfeld led”.

Kim Kardashian, Nicole Kidman, Naomi Campbell, and Jennifer Lopez all walked the red carpet in line with the theme, while some stars took more creative liberties in their Met Gala looks. Doja Cat and Jared Leto, for example, arrived dressed as Lagerfeld’s beloved cat, Choupette.

Met Gala 2023 key points

• Met Gala livestream ends abruptly

• The best dressed stars of 2023

• Rihanna arrives fashionably late

• The Met Gala theme and why it’s so controversial

• A cockroach on the red carpet turned out to be a Met Gala highlight

Fan recalls moment A$AP Rocky jumped over her before Met Gala: ‘Sweetheart I need to get through’

12:00 , Peony Hirwani

The woman who found herself inadvertently helping A$AP Rocky jump a barricade outside of The Carlyle Hotel in New York City ahead of the 2023 Met Gala has opened up about the shock she felt after realising who she’d assisted.

Read what she said below.

Fan recalls moment A$AP Rocky jumped over her before Met Gala

Anna Wintour seemingly confirms relationship with Bill Nighy at the Met Gala

11:30 , Peony Hirwani

Anna Wintour seemingly confirmed her relationship with actor Bill Nighy when they walked the red carpet of this year’s Met Gala together.

Wintour, who’s been organising the annual fundraising event since 1995, arrived at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Monday 1 May with Nighy. For the occasion, she wore a patterned coat over a silver, satin skirt.

Meanwhile, her date for the evening wore a black suit along with his white button down shirt and a navy blue tie.

As the pair posed for pictures, Wintour had her hand wrapped around the Love, Actually star’s arm.

Read more:

Anna Wintour seemingly confirms relationship with Bill Nighy at the Met Gala

A cockroach on the red carpet turned out to be a Met Gala highlight

11:00 , Peony Hirwani

An unlikely guest had a red carpet moment at the 2023 Met Gala, amongst a number of glamorous stars.

A cockroach was spotted crawling along the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Monday night (1 May) just before Rihanna and A$AP Rocky made their appearance.

The insect was papped on the carpet by photographer Kevin Mazur, who posed with his picture of the cockroach for Variety magazine’s Twitter feed.

It quickly became a sensation on social media, with many declaring that the cockroach was the “moment” of the night, instead of the slew of celebrities dressed in elaborate outfits in honour of the Met Gala theme.

Read more:

A cockroach on the red carpet turned out to be a Met Gala highlight

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson reunite at the Met Gala

10:30 , Peony Hirwani

Olivia Wilde and Margaret Zhang wear the same dress to the Met Gala

10:00 , Peony Hirwani

Olivia Wilde and Margaret Zhang wore the same dress to the Met Gala.

On Monday (1 May), the 39-year-old Don’t Worry Darling director and the 29-year-old Vogue China editor wore the same dress to the annual event.

The outfit, which featured a high collar and cutouts on each side, was reportedly “a collaboration” between the late Karl Lagerfeld and Chloé’s Gabriela Hearst.

Read more:

Olivia Wilde and Margaret Zhang wear the same dress to the Met Gala

Diddy sweats profusely when asked to describe Yung Miami relationship at Met Gala

09:30 , Peony Hirwani

Diddy started sweating profusely when TV host and BMF actor La La Anthony asked him to describe his relationship with Yung Miami at the Met Gala.

Read more:

Diddy sweats profusely when asked to describe Yung Miami relationship at Met Gala

Rihanna shares pregnancy update on Met Gala red carpet after arriving late with A$AP Rocky

09:00 , Meredith Clark

Rihanna finally arrived at the 2023 Met Gala on Monday night after much delay.

The singer walked the red carpet with boyfriend A$AP Rocky just moments after Vogue ended its livestream of the event. Rihanna opted for a white floral gown by Valentino, which showed off her growing baby bump.

Despite her delayed arrival, Rihanna took the opportunity to give an update on her second pregnancy, telling E! News that it’s “so different” from the first.

“Just everything. All of … no cravings, tons of nausea, everything is different,” Rihanna said, before adding: “But, I’m enjoying it. I’m enjoying it. I feel good, I feel energetic.”

The singer was then asked about the couple’s firstborn, who they welcomed in May 2022. “I’m in love. I’m obsessed,” Rihanna said of her and Rocky’s son. “And I don’t even feel guilty about it.”

Rihanna shares pregnancy update on Met Gala red carpet

The Met Gala red carpet abruptly ends

08:30 , Meredith Clark

The Met Gala red carpet livestream came to a sudden end on Monday evening, after attempts by the hosts to keep the show going despite a clearly empty red carpet.

After many celebrities and fashion influencers posed for pictures on the Met Gala red carpet, they headed inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the festivities to behind. However, they left behind what many called an “empty” red carpet.

The pacing of the event appeared to pose an issue for Vogue, with the hosts of the livestream promising viewers more arrivals before ultimately ending the show at 9.22pm.

Chelsea Ritschel has more on the awkward ending.

Met Gala ends abruptly

08:00 , Meredith Clark

The Met Gala has seen its fair share of controversies in the past, and this year is no different.

While the 2023 Met Gala theme – “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty” – received much backlash after it was announced last September, the annual fashion event has previously sparked debate over its choice of theme.

From “China: Through the Looking Glass” in 2015 to “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination” in 2018, the Met Gala has encouraged guests – and viewers – to push the boundaries of fashion.

Here’s a look back at some of the most controversial Met Gala themes.

The most controversial Met Gala themes of all time

What happens inside the exclusive Met Gala?

07:30 , Meredith Clark

While the Met Gala red carpet has ended, many attendees are still partying until the early morning.

Following the red carpet livestream, which abruptly ended this year after no sign of Rihanna, the guests make their way inside The Met museum.

However, what happens after is shrouded in mystery, as it has never been revealed what exactly occurs inside during the invite-only party.

From a cocktail hour to a sit-down dinner and musical performance, this is what we know about what goes on inside the Met Gala.

What happens inside the exclusive Met Gala?

Lizzo reveals the worst parts of the Met Gala

07:00 , Meredith Clark

A resurfaced clip of Lizzo, in which she shared some of the reasons why she didn’t enjoy last year’s Met Gala, has gone viral online.

The clip was taken from Lizzo’s Instagram Live, days after the 2022 event, where she revealed that she was initially uncomfortable in her outfit and there was was “a long f***ing line” to get to the red carpet.

“I’m taking the glamour away from it, but it’s true,”she said in the video. “So you’re waiting and that’s the hardest part. I was sweating in a big a** coat, my feet were hurting.”

Lizzo added that the he “scariest part” for her was the red carpet, where played the flute for fellow Met Gala attendees.

“I got nervous and I only played it once because all the photographers were heckling me,” she said.

Amber Raiken has the full report.

Lizzo reveals the worst parts of the Met Gala in resurfaced clip

A history of Karl Lagerfeld’s controversial comments

06:30 , Meredith Clark

The legacy of the late designer, Karl Lagerfeld, was the theme of this year’s Met Gala.

In September, Vogue announced the theme of the annual fashion event would be “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

The theme will “examine the life and creative legacy of the Chanel creative director, who shaped the face of fashion for more than half a century”. In doing so, the official dress code for the 1 May event was “in honour of Karl”.

However, his highly controversial opinions and beliefs have resurfaced in light of the Met Gala.

Here’s a breakdown of Karl Lagerfeld’s accusations of bigotry and his history of controversial comments.

A history of Karl Lagerfeld’s controversial comments

Models protest 2023 Met Gala

06:00 , Meredith Clark

In addition to Jameela Jamil, several models gathered together to protest this year’s Met Gala theme, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

Many models shared their displeasure with the theme during an in-person protest on the iconic Met Gala steps on Sunday, just one day before the annual gala.

The legendary deisgner is known to have made several derogatory comments about marginalised groups and public figures, including frequent criticism of women.

Read more from Chelsea Ritschel here.

Models protest controversial Karl Lagerfeld Met Gala theme

Celebrities criticise 2023 Met Gala theme

05:30 , Meredith Clark

As some celebrities walked the Met Gala red carpet in celebration of Karl Lagerfeld, others took to social media to call out the annual fashion event for honouring the German designer.

The Good Place star previously spoke out against the Met Gala theme in October 2022, when she called out Lagerfeld for the many instances he spoke in a “distinctly hateful” way, which she acknowledged was “mostly towards women”.

In an Instagram post on Monday, Jamil once again criticised Vogue’s choice and reiterated her opposition to the Met Gala theme.

Read her response to the 2023 Met Gala theme.

Jameela Jamil condemns decision to honour Karl Lagerfeld with Met Gala theme

What was the 2023 Met Gala theme?

05:17 , Meredith Clark

It appears that many celebrities dressed on-theme for this year’s Met Gala, which aimed to “examine the life” of the late Karl Lagerfeld.

In September 2022, Vogue announced that the theme of the 2023 event will be “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

The dress code asked attendees to wear clothing “in honour of Karl” – such as looks from his fashion label or more “modern-day” looks by Chanel or Fendi.

However, backlash quickly followed as many on social media resurfaced many of Lagerfeld’s highly controversial opinions.

Here’s some background on the 2023 Met Gala theme and why it was deemed so controversial.

What is this year’s Met Gala theme and why is it so controversial?

04:30 , Meredith Clark

While the 2023 Met Gala red carpet has come to a close, we still can’t stop thinking about this year’s best dressed.

Dua Lipa, one of this year’s four co-chairs arrived, wore white gown made famous by model Claudia Schiffer when she closed the 1995-1996 Chanel runway show.

Penélope Cruz opted for a sheer white gown, which was adored with silver sequins and featured a hood.

Nicole Kidman posed for the red carpet in a pink Chanel gown she wore during campaign for the brand in 2004.

Amber Raiken has more of the 2023 Met Gala best dressed.

Best dressed stars on the Met Gala red carpet

Serena Williams announces she’s pregnant with second child during Met Gala

04:00 , Meredith Clark

Serena Williams has confirmed that she is pregnant with her second child during the 2023 Met Gala.

The former tennis star showed off her baby bump when she walked the Met Gala red carpet in a black long-sleeved dress, with a deep v-neckline. The dress also featured a white, fluffy skirt adorned with silver sequins.

Williams confirmed her pregnancy in an Instagram post, as well as during her red carpet interview with husband Alexis Ohanian. “Was so excited when Anna Wintour invited the 3 of us to the Met Gala,” she wrote in the caption of her post, which showed Williams cradling her bump.

The couple are already parents to five-year-old daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr.

Amber Raiken has the full report.

Serena Williams announces she’s pregnant during Met Gala

Rihanna walks Met Gala red carpet

03:31 , Meredith Clark

After much delay, Rihanna has finally posed for pictures on the 2023 Met Gala red carpet.

The singer was seen holding hands with boyfriend A$AP Rocky while she was dressed in a white floral outfit that covered her entire face. She accessorised the look with a pair of white cat-eye sunglasses, which were decorated with a pair of fake eyelashes, and a bold red lip.

Meanwhile, A$AP Rocky could be seen wearing a black suit jacket with a white button-down shirt, along with a red plaid kilt over a pair of baggy jeans.

Their appearance comes after the Vogue red carpet livestream came to an abrupt end, as fans waited for their arrival.

Karl Lagerfeld’s cat Choupette reveals whether she will be attending Met Gala

03:30 , Meredith Clark

While many stars arrived at the Met Gala dressed as Karl Lagerfeld’s cat, Choupette, the beloved feline will be missing from the fashion extravaganza.

Ahead of Monday night’s Met Gala, Choupette revealed on Instagram that she would not be walking this year’s red carpet.

“Many people invited me to walk the red carpet of the #METGALA2023 in tribute to Daddy, but we preferred to stay peacefully and cosy at home,” the account for Choupette captioned the post. “We pay tribute to my Daddy every day since his parting and we are very moved to see one more day dedicated to him.”

On Instagram, the legendary designer’s cat boasts 174k followers.

Following his death in 2019, Choupette was reportedly set to inherit Lagerfeld’s £150m fortune.

Chelsea Ritschel has more.

Karl Lagerfeld’s beloved cat Choupette reveals whether she will be attending Met Gala

Rihanna arrives late to the Met Gala

03:00 , Meredith Clark

Rihanna has arrived fashionably late to the 2023 Met Gala.

It appears the “Diamonds” singer skipped this year’s Met Gala red carpet on Monday evening. Instead, one video captured Rihanna attending the event with boyfriend A$AP Rocky, minutes after Vogue ended their red carpet livestream.

Despite the late arrival, fans still waited outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to catch a glimpse at the Fenty Beauty founder.

Jared Leto attends Met Gala dressed as Lagerfeld’s beloved pet

02:45 , Meredith Clark

Met Gala livestream ends abruptly

02:36 , Meredith Clark

Vogue abruptly ended its Met Gala livestream on Monday night after attempts by the hosts to keep the show going, despite a clearly empty red carpet.

It appeared that the stream of star-studded guests began to peter out early, as celebrities had made their way inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

TheVogue livestream co-hosts told viewers to “take a chill pill and keep waiting” in promise of more arrivals, but ultimately ended the show at 9.22pm.

Chelsea Ritschel is following the story here.

Met Gala ends abruptly

Kim Kardashian attends Met Gala red carpet in pearl Schiaparelli dress

02:30 , Meredith Clark

Kim Kardashian has arrived at the 2023 Met Gala with her sisters, Kendall and Kylie Jenner.

The 42-year-old reality star walked the Met steps red carpet in a white head-to-toe pearl outfit designed by Schiaparelli’s creative director, Daniel Roseberry.

While speaking to Vogue livestream co-hosts Derek Blasberg and Chloe Fineman, Kardashian revealed that her nine-year-old daughter, North West, was waiting in the car and watching her mother walk the red carpet from a distance.

Read more from Meredith Clark here.

Kim Kardashian reveals North is watching from car as she arrives at Met Gala

02:23 , Meredith Clark

Many celebrities have already walked the Met Gala red carpet, but fans on social media are noting the absence of some of their favourite stars.

As theVogue livestream co-hosts told viewers to “take a chill pill and keep waiting” for one last arrival, people on Twitter took the opportunity to poke fun at the Met Gala’s “empty” red carpet.

One fan on Twitter said: “oh so Met Gala 2023 has no blake lively??? taylor swift???? beyoncé???? ariana grande??? selena gomez?? anya taylor-joy??? bella hadid?? zendaya??? saoirse ronan??? emma watson??? lady gaga??? billy porter??? katy perry???”

“everyone just sitting waiting for rihanna,” joked writer Hunter Harris.

“Rihanna PLEASE COME ON!! i beg you! she’s the only reason i’m still tuned into the live stream looking at this empty carpet & the hosts struggling to fill in time until she arrives,” another tweeted.

Unfortunately, the Vogue red carpet livestream ended on Monday evening with no Rihanna in sight.

Florence Pugh debuts buzz cut on Met Gala red carpet

02:15 , Meredith Clark

Florence Pugh has showed off her new buzz cut on the Met Gala red carpet.

The Don’t Worry Darling star was dressed in a white Valentino gown with a black bow when she debuted her new hairstyle. She accessorised the buzz cut with a large feathered headpiece.

Pugh’s new look was immediately applauded by fans on social media.

“The Florence Pugh buzz cut happened and my god her first Met Gala and it’s flawless. No notes. A red carpet queen #metgala,” one person tweeted, while another said: “Florence Pugh is a full serve and I’m so excited for the buzz cut she looks so hot.”

Chelsea Ritschel has the full buzz cut breakdown.

Florence Pugh debuts buzz cut on Met Gala red carpet to joy from fans

Doja Cat dresses as Karl Lagerfeld’s cat Choupette for the Met Gala

02:00 , Meredith Clark

The 27-year-old singer came to the 2023 Met Gala dressed as the legendary fashion designer’s iconic cat, Choupette.

The sequined, white Oscar De La Renta dress was equipped with a long, fluffy train, and sequin cat ears. For her makeup, Doja wore prosthetics to truly resemble a cat.

She accessorised the look with a silver headpiece and matching bracelets and rings.

Fans instantly praised Doja Cat’s decision to dress up as Choupette.

“If anyone was going to be Karl Lagerfeld’s cat it would be Doja Cat,” tweeted one person.

Another wrote, “Doja cat as Karl Lagerfeld’s beloved cat, Choupette…she said doja CAT”.

Read more here.

Doja Cat dresses as Karl Lagerfeld’s cat for the Met Gala

Blake Lively’s Meta Gala looks through the years

01:45 , Meredith Clark

North West surprises Kim Kardashian with ‘beautiful’ Met Gala gift

01:30 , Meredith Clark

North West has surprised Kim Kardashian ahead of the 2023 Met Gala

Ahead of the annual fashion event, the nine-year-old gifted her mother with some pre-Met Gala massages. In an Instagram Story post, the SKIMS founder shared footage of the relaxing set-up, which included massage tables, candles, bouquets of white roses, and silver balloons that spelled out, “Karl Lagerfeld Met Gala”.

“How sweet is North for surprising me tonight with this for us to relax before the Met,” Kardashian wrote over her Instagram Story.

“Massages before the big day,” Kardashian said in the video. “How beautiful!”

Meredith Clark has the full story.

North West surprises Kim Kardashian with ‘beautiful’ Met Gala gift

Jameela Jamil condemns decision to honour Karl Lagerfeld with Met Gala theme

01:15 , Meredith Clark

The Good Place actor Jameela Jamil has spoken out against the 2023 Met Gala theme, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

After previously condemning this year’s Met Gala theme in October 2022, Jamil has once again criticised the annual fashion event for honouring Lagerfeld despite his many controversial comments.

“This is why so many people hate and mistrust Hollywood elite liberals,” she wrote in an Instagram Story posted on Monday. “Because of our rampant selective outrage and hypocrisy. If someone makes good art we turn a blind eye. Why else did [Harvey] Weinstein get away with decades of abuse?”

In an Instagram post shared last October, Jamil called out the German designer for the many instances he spoke in a “distinctly hateful” way, which she acknowledged was “mostly towards women”.

Chelsea Ritschel has the full story.

Jameela Jamil condemns decision to honour Karl Lagerfeld with Met Gala theme

Blake Lively shares photo of herself pumping breast milk amid Met Gala absence

01:00 , Meredith Clark

Blake Lively has shared a photo of herself pumping breast milk after confirming her absence from the 2023 Met Gala.

The Gossip Girl star joked about her plans for the annual fashion extravaganza on Instagram, where she posted a photo of herself pumping in a bathroom.

“First Monday in May,” she captioned the photo.

The post from Lively, who recently welcomed her fourth child with husband Ryan Reynolds, comes after the Deadpool star revealed the reason that he and Blake Lively will not be attending the 2023 Met Gala is only partly due to the new addition to their family.

Blake Lively shares photo of herself pumping breast milk amid Met Gala absence

Dua Lipa’s Met Gala look sparks comparisons to Ocean’s 8

Tuesday 2 May 2023 00:45 , Meredith Clark

Dua Lipa has sparked Ocean’s 8 jokes after accessorising her 2023 Met Gala outfit with a never-before-seen Tiffany & Co diamond necklace.

The Met Gala co-chair arrived on the red carpet in a black and white Chanel tweed ballgown in honour of the theme: “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.” For her jewellery, Lipa accessorised the gown with a 100-carat diamond necklace.

Unsurpringly, many fans noted that the 128.54-carat yellow Tiffany diamond resembled the diamond necklace from Ocean’s 8. In the 2018 film, several women plot to steal a Cartier diamond necklace from Daphne Kluger, played by Anne Hathaway, during the Met Gala.

Read some of the comparisons here.

Dua Lipa sparks comparisons to Ocean’s 8 with Met Gala look

Met Gala: Stars walk the red carpet

Tuesday 2 May 2023 00:30 , Meredith Clark

Tuesday 2 May 2023 00:15 , Meredith Clark

Newcomer rapper Ice Spice is set to make her Met Gala debut after reportedly receiving an invite to be the special guest of Anna Wintour at the annual event.

The 23-year-old will attending the 2023 Met Gala at the personal request of the Vogue editor-in-chief, according to TMZ. She will reportedly be wearing custom Balmain for the occasion.

Ice Spice appeared to confirm her invite to the Met Gala in a video posted to social media on 30 April. Although most attendees are still only rumoured, she joins the list of celebrities who have already confirmed they will be in attendance, including Kim Kardashian and Florence Pugh.

Read more here.

Ice Spice to make Met Gala debut after partnering with Vogue, according to reports

Gisele Bündchen arrives solo at the Met Gala following Tom Brady divorce

Tuesday 2 May 2023 00:00 , Meredith Clark

Gisele Bündchen has made her solo Met Gala red carpet debut following her divorce from NFL star Tom Brady.

The supermodel wore a white gown with an oversized feathered cape, in honour of this year’s Met Gala theme, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

Bündchen’s arrival on the red carpet marks her first solo appearance on the Met steps since 2006, after her divorce from Brady in October 2022.

The couple were a longtime staple at the exclusive fashion extravaganza, where they first appeared together in 2008.

Gisele Bündchen poses solo on Met Gala red carpet following divorce

Models protest controversial Karl Lagerfeld Met Gala theme

Monday 1 May 2023 23:45 , Meredith Clark

Models are protesting the controversial decision to honour Karl Lagerfeld through the theme for the 2023 Met Gala.

On Sunday, some models began protesting the Met Gala theme on the iconic Met Gala steps, one day before the annual gala. Lagerfeld, who died in 2019 at the age of 85, was known to make divisive comments about issues including same-sex marriage, the MeToo Movement, fatphobia, and LGBTQ rights.

“The choice to honour Lagerfeld embodies the dissonance of an industry that claims to be progressive, that celebrates body positivity and survivors on the one hand, and then reveres figures like [Lagerfeld] without even acknowledging their regressive views,” Sara Ziff, the founder of the Model Alliance, told Jezebel.

Chelsea Ritschel has the full report.

Models protest controversial Karl Lagerfeld Met Gala theme

The Vogue red carpet livestream has begun

Monday 1 May 2023 23:40 , Meredith Clark

The red carpet livestream for the 2023 Met Gala is officially underway.

Fans can tune into the Met Gala red carpet livestream on the Vogue website, YouTube channel, or across its social media platforms.

The livestream will be hosted by La La Anthony, Chloe Fineman, and Derek Blasberg. Just like last year’s Met Gala, Emma Chamberlain will be stepping in as Vogue‘s special correspondent of the livestream.

Find out how to watch the 2023 Met Gala red carpet here.

How to watch the 2023 Met Gala tonight

Who are the co-chairs of this year’s Met Gala?

Monday 1 May 2023 23:30 , Meredith Clark

In January, Vogue announced the co-chairs of the 2023 Met Gala were Dua Lipa, Michaela Coel, Penélope Cruz, and Roger Federer.

Following the announcement, all four of the co-chairs posted about the event on social media. Federer took to his Instagram Story to reshare the Met’s recent video about the occasion and co-chairs.

“Anna, thanks for always being there for my family,” the tennis player wrote in the caption. “So many great memories. I can’t wait to share another amazing evening together at the Met Gala.”

Dua Lipa also shared the Met’s video in her own Instagram post while Cruz shared the same video on her Instagram, with a caption that reads: “Karl,” along with a pink heart emoji.

Coel went to Twitter to share an article rewritten by Vogue, which announced her position as co-chair.

What is this year’s Met Gala theme and why is it so controversial?

Monday 1 May 2023 23:20 , Meredith Clark

Watch The Independent’s livestream as celebrities leave The Mark Hotel in New York City for the Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Monday 1 May 2023 23:15 , Meredith Clark

The best dressed stars on the 2023 Met Gala red carpet

The annual fashion event has been known to churn out some memorable looks, and this year is no different.

With the theme of tonight’s Met Gala being “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”, guests have been asked to wear clothing that will “examine the life” of the late designer’s legacy.

This may include items designed by Lagerfeld-led brands, such as Patou, Chloé, Fendi, or Chanel.

Amber Raiken has the full Met Gala 2023 best dressed list.

Met Gala 2023: Best dressed stars on red carpet, from Rachel Smith to Harvey Guillén

Monday 1 May 2023 23:00 , Meredith Clark

Who is attending the 2023 Met Gala?

Many celebrities and fashion influencers are expected to walk the star-studded red carpet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City on Monday.

Along with Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who carefully presides over each Met Gala guest list, this year’s co-chairs are singer Dua Lipa, actor Michaela Coel, actor Penélope Cruz, and tennis star Roger Federer.

Kim Kardashian has confirmed her attendance at the Met Gala, despite initial reports the Kardashian-Jenner family didn’t score an invite.

Sadly, Blake Lively revealed to the disappointment of fans that she will not be attending the annual fashion event. However, the actor promised she wouldn’t be missing out on the festivities completely, as she said she would be “watching”.

Find out which celebrities are skipping the 2023 Met Gala here.

Which celebrities are skipping the Met Gala this year?

Monday 1 May 2023 22:52 , Meredith Clark

Anna Wintour arrives at the 2023 Met Gala.

The Vogue editor-in-chief walked the red carpet with her rumoured boyfriend, actor Bill Nighy, on Monday evening.

Since 1995, Anna Wintour has carefully presided over the Met Gala and its exclusive guest list. While the British journalist has been a mainstay at the Met Gala – and in the fashion world – for decades, she maintains an air of mystery when it comes to her personal (and dating) life.

Here are five surprising things you might not know about Anna Wintour.

5 surprising things you might not know about Anna Wintour

Monday 1 May 2023 22:30 , Meredith Clark

The 2023 Met Gala theme, which pays tribute to legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld, has prompted criticism and reemergence of his most controversial moments.

The Chanel creative director, who died in 2019 at the age of 85, was known to make divisive comments about issues including same-sex marriage, the MeToo Movement, fatphobia, and LGBTQ rights.

Here’s a look at just a few of his biggest controversies.

A history of Karl Lagerfeld’s controversial comments

Monday 1 May 2023 22:00 , Meredith Clark

Anna Wintour has paid tribute to Karl Lagerfeld’s legacy ahead of the 2023 Met Gala on Monday 1 May.

Ahead of fashion’s biggest night, the Vogue editor-in-chief sat down for an interview with The DailyTelegraph.

When asked about the controversy surrounding Lagerfeld and the Met Gala’s theme, Wintour acknowleged he’s a “snob” but his influence on fashion, undeniable.

“In a world where so much changes, the fact [that] Karl stayed at these two iconic houses [Chanel and Fendi] for half a century and more is unique,” she said.

Maanya Sachdeva has the full report.

Anna Wintour pays tribute to ‘snob’ Karl Lagerfeld’s legacy ahead of Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 21:30 , Meredith Clark

The theme for this year’s Met Gala will honour the late Karl Lagerfeld.

In line with the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s upcoming exhibition, “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”, the Met Gala dress code asks guests to wear clothing “in honour of Karl”.

According to Vogue, which hosts the annual fundraiser each year under the instruction of editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, attendees are expected to interpret, and follow, the theme by wearing an archival look from one of the labels Lagerfeld led.

These may include pieces he designed for a handful of houses – Balmain, Patou, Chloé, and his eponymous brand – or more “modern-day” looks from Chanel or Fendi, for which he served as creative director.

Read more about the Met Gala 2023 dress code here.

What is the dress code for the 2023 Met Gala?

Are the Kardashians invited to the 2023 Met Gala?

Monday 1 May 2023 21:01 , Roisin O'Connor

The Met Gala 2023 is almost here. As fashion lovers everywhere prepare for the star-studded event, there is one question that many people are asking about this year’s guest list: Are the Kardashians invited?

Meredith Clark can tell you everything we know so far:

Are the Kardashians invited to the Met Gala?

What actually happens inside the Met Gala?

Monday 1 May 2023 20:31 , Roisin O'Connor

After the red carpet portion of the evening, the celebrities, influencers and other notable guests will make their way inside the museum - at which point the Met Gala becomes more shrouded in mystery, as it has never been revealed what exactly occurs inside during the invite-only party.

From a cocktail hour to a sit-down dinner and musical performance, this is what we know about what goes on inside the Met Gala.

What happens inside the exclusive Met Gala?

5 weird rules guests must follow at the Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 20:01 , Roisin O'Connor

5 unexpected rules guests must follow at the Met Gala

Vogue reveals employee once had to search through garbage to try to recover Met Gala invites

Monday 1 May 2023 19:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Vogue staff have revealed that an employee was once tasked with digging through a garbage dump in the hopes of recovering invites to the Met Gala ... while reflecting on some of the major mishaps that have occurred during the planning for the annual party.

Chelsea Ritschel has the full story!

Vogue reveals garbage dump was searched after Met Gala invites were thrown out

A history of Karl Lagerfeld’s controversial comments

Monday 1 May 2023 19:01 , Roisin O'Connor

While his legacy and contributions to the fashion industry live on, Karl Lagerfeld’s highly controversial opinions and beliefs have also resurfaced in light of the museum and Vogue’s upcoming tribute.

Jameela Jamil was among those who condemned the choice, with the actress taking to Instagram to criticise the “distinctly hateful” way Lagerfeld used his platform to attack marginalised groups and public figures throughout his career.

Here’s a look at just a few of his biggest controversies:

A history of Karl Lagerfeld’s controversial comments

Monday 1 May 2023 18:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Apparently Lizzo didn’t have the best time at last year’s Met Gala, with a long queue, not enough alcohol, and rude photographers!

According to the Daily Mail, the pop star shared an Instagram Story in which she gave fans some insight to the less-glamorous side of the event.

“There’s a long f***ing line,” she explained. “I’m taking the glamour away from it but it’s true. You’ve gotta wait. So you’re waiting and that’s the hardest part. I was sweating in a big-ass coat, my feet were hurting.

“I was like, ‘Bitch? Can we get some chairs or some drinks or some hors d’oeuvres? They were being really stingy with the liquor that night. He was like, ‘Red or white wine? And I was like, ‘Tequila! Do you know what I’ve been through? Do you know how many hours I’ve been in this corset? How long I’ve been in these damn shoes? Tequila!’.”

Lizzo apparently also claimed that photographers accused her of being boring when she tried to play the flute on the red carpet.

“I had this plan to play the flute and do the whole intro [of a classical piece] but I got nervous and I only played it once because all the photographers were heckling me,” she claimed. “They were like, ‘You’re putting us to sleep with the flute!’ I was like, ‘OK?’ In my mind I thought everyone was going to be transfixed. So I only played it once, only the first half of it. Then I posed and got the photos.”

Boo! I’m not sure what those photographers were thinking, Lizzo on the red carpet is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, flute or no flute.

Who’s attending this year and how do you get invited?

Monday 1 May 2023 18:01 , Roisin O'Connor

While the gala might be a charity event, and primarily about raising funds, that doesn’t mean just anyone gets to attend. Since 1995, the guest list has been carefully presided over byVogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and this year is no different.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Met Gala’s guestlist, from who is attending this year to how you can get an invite.

Who’s on the guestlist for the 2023 Met Gala... and how do you get an invite?

The most controversial Met Gala themes of all time

Monday 1 May 2023 17:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Let’s take a look at all the times the Met Gala ruffled a few feathers...

The most controversial Met Gala themes of all time

Rihanna pays homage to Karl Lagerfeld with faux fur ensemble ahead of Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 17:01 , Roisin O'Connor

As the annual fashion event Met Gala kicks off today (Monday 1 May), celebrities will be offering their take on this year’s theme: “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

The theme, chosen by Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour, promises to “examine the life” of the late designer’s fashion legacy.

It seems that “Diamonds” singer Rihanna has already addressed the theme ahead of time, as she appeared in New York over the weekend sporting in a monochrome black and white outfit, with vintage Chanel pieces.

Full story:

Rihanna pays homage to Karl Lagerfeld with faux fur ensemble ahead of Met Gala

Lagerfeld’s beloved cat Choupette will not be walking the red carpet today

Monday 1 May 2023 16:31 , Roisin O'Connor

“A million thanks to all of you my fans, animal lovers & Daddy’s admirers,” the official Choupette Instagram account reads.

“You have all shown the kindest enthusiasm and unconditional support, I say MERCI ! Many people invited me to walk the red carpet of the #METGALA2023 in tribute to Daddy, but we preferred to stay peacefully & cozy at home. We pay tribute to my Daddy every day since his parting and we are very moved to see one more day dedicated to him.

“With love, foreverChoupette.”

How to watch the Met Gala tonight

Monday 1 May 2023 16:01 , Roisin O'Connor

Wondering how you can tune in from home? Amber Raikan has you covered!

How to watch the 2023 Met Gala tonight

Everything you need to know about the 2023 Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 15:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Here’s everything that you need to know about the 2023 Met Gala’s co-hosts, location, and controversy.

Everything you need to know about the 2023 Met Gala

Who’s attending the Met Gala this year?

Monday 1 May 2023 15:01 , Roisin O'Connor

Blake Lively might be skipping the Met Gala this year, but that doesn’t mean we won’t see a whole host of celebrities walking the red carpet tonight.

Among the stars who’ve confirmed their attendance are Rita Ora, rappers Ice Spice, Megan Thee Stallion and Doja Cat, and actor Elle Fanning.

Meanwhile, Rihanna fans are in a frenzy at the prospect of the pregnant “Kiss It Better” star walking the carpet with her boyfriend, rapper A$AP Rocky.

The Great star Elle Fanning star told Variety that she is “excited” about her look.

“I sort of sketch everything out so I did a little sketch — an homage to Karl Lagerfeld, of course,” she told the magazine. “I am truly going on theme. I have a good story behind the look that is special to me.”

Met Gala 2023 theme will honour late designer Karl Lagerfeld

Monday 1 May 2023 14:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Vogue has announced the dress code of the 2023 Met Gala, which will honour the late Karl Lagerfeld.

The biggest night in fashion is set to return to the Metropolitan Museum of Art on 1 May 2023, in celebration of the Costume Institute’s upcoming exhibition “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

According to Vogue, which first revealed the controversial theme last year, the annual fashion event will also pay homage to the designer through the dress code: “In honour of Karl”.

Here are all the details:

What is the dress code for the 2023 Met Gala?

The best dressed stars from the 2022 Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 14:01 , Roisin O'Connor

With the 2023 Met Gala just days away, it seems like the perfect time to look back at some of the best outfits from last year’s event, writes Amber Raiken.

The heme of the 2023 fashion extravaganza will be “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”, with guests being asked to dress in outfits that embody the work and style of the late fashion designer.

For the event last year, the theme was “In America: An Anthology of Fashion,” with the dress code listed on the invites as “Gilded Glamour” and was part two of an exhibit from the museum’s Costume Institute. The first part of the exhibit, “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” was the theme of the 2021 Met Gala.

From Blake Lively to Sarah Jessica Parker, these were some of the best-dressed celebrities at the 2022 Met Gala.

The best dressed stars from the 2022 Met Gala

Blake Lively disappoints fans but has a relatable excuse for not attending

Monday 1 May 2023 13:30 , Roisin O'Connor

Blake Lively has long-been a favourite at the Met Gala each year, with some incredible looks ranging from Atelier Versace gowns to sparkly Gucci numbers.

Unfortunately, for anyone hoping to see her walk the red carpet tonight, she’s already confirmed she won’t be attending the event.

My colleague Chelsea Ritschel has the details:

Blake Lively reveals whether she will attend 2023 Met Gala

5 weird rules guests must follow at the Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 13:00 , Roisin O'Connor

Whenever the Met Gala is held, there are certain guidelines that guests will be expected to follow should they want to stay in Anna Wintour’s good books.

From an age restriction to a ban on selfies, here are five of the unexpected rules put in place at the Met Gala.

5 unexpected rules guests must follow at the Met Gala

The most controversial Met Gala themes of all time

Monday 1 May 2023 12:31 , Roisin O'Connor

Tonight’s Karl Lagerfeld tribute is controversial, sure, but this is far from the first time the Met Gala theme has caused a stir.

Here’s a look at some of the other memorable (not neccessarily in a good way) Met Gala themes:

The most controversial Met Gala themes of all time

Monday 1 May 2023 12:01 , Roisin O'Connor

It comes as no surprise that Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour is one of the most prominent figures in fashion, considering she comes from a journalism background and has been working in fashion since she was 15 years old.

Yet she’s managed to maintain a huge aura of mystery when it comes to her personal life, and even how she operates in her role at Vogue.

Here are five surprising things you might not know about her:

5 surprising things you might not know about Anna Wintour

Are the Kardashians invited?

Monday 1 May 2023 11:30 , Roisin O'Connor

The Met Gala 2023 is almost here. As fashion lovers everywhere prepare for the star-studded event, there is one question that many people are asking about this year’s guest list: Are the Kardashians invited?

Members of the Kardashian-Jenner family have been a mainstay at the Met Gala for the last 10 years. Just last year, six members of the famous clan attended the red carpet event together. However, a report from Page Six in March claimed that the reality stars have not received an invitation to the 2023 Met Gala, whose theme this year is “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”.

The reason why the Kardashians supposedly didn’t make the cut? Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who is in charge of the guest list, was allegedly “cracking down” on who can attend the exclusive event. However, another source close to the Kardashian family told the outlet that the rumours weren’t true.

Meredith Clark reports:

Are the Kardashians invited to the Met Gala?

How to watch the Met Gala tonight

Monday 1 May 2023 11:05 , Roisin O'Connor

For those of you not lucky enough to receive an invitation to the main event, there are plenty of other ways you can feel involved.

Here’s how to watch the Met Gala from home:

When is the 2023 Met Gala and how can you watch it?

Karl Lagerfeld’s most controversial comments

Monday 1 May 2023 10:57 , Roisin O'Connor

The decision to have the 2023 Met Gala serve as an homage to late designer Karl Lagerfeld has proven controversial to many.

The widely celebrated German designer, who died in 2019 at the age of 85, was best known for his work as the creative director of the French fashion house Chanel, a position he held from 1983 until his death. Lagerfeld was also the creative director of Fendi and his eponymous Karl Lagerfeld label.

While his legacy and contributions to the fashion industry live on, the designer’s highly controversial opinions and beliefs have also resurfaced in light of the museum and Vogue’s upcoming tribute.

Here are some of his most infamous remarks:

A history of Karl Lagerfeld’s controversial comments

The fashion world prepares for tonight’s Met Gala 2023

Monday 1 May 2023 10:38 , Roisin O'Connor

Hello and welcome to The Independent’s liveblog of the 2023 Met Gala.

Legendary Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour is preparing to welcome some of the biggest names across fashion, TV, music, sport and film in what is widely regarded as fashion’s biggest night.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event:

Everything to know about this year’s Met Gala: When is it and what is the theme?

5 weird rules guests must follow at the Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 11:19 , Roisin O'Connor

Whenever the Met Gala is held, there are certain guidelines that guests will be expected to follow should they want to stay in Wintour’s good books.

From an age restriction to a ban on selfies, here are five of the unexpected rules put in place at the Met Gala.

5 unexpected rules guests must follow at the Met Gala

Who’s attending the Met Gala this year?

Monday 1 May 2023 11:13 , Roisin O'Connor

Fans might be disappointed to learn that Blake Lively won’t be attending the Met Gala this year, but there’ll still be ample opportunity for some A-list celebrity-spotting tonight.

Among the stars to have confirmed their attendance are Elle Fanning, Rita Ora and Ice Spice.

We’re also expecting to see Megan Thee Stallion, Kim Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Cara Delevingne, Kristen Stewart, Priyanka Chopra, Kaia Gerber and many more.

Anna Wintour’s four co-chairs, Roger Federer, Dua Lipa, Michaela Coel and Penelope Cruz, will all be attending, of course.

The Great star Elle Fanning told Variety that she is “excited” about her look.

“I sort of sketch everything out so I did a little sketch — an homage to Karl Lagerfeld, of course,” she told the magazine. “I am truly going on theme. I have a good story behind the look that is special to me.”

The best dressed stars from the 2022 Met Gala

Monday 1 May 2023 11:18 , Roisin O'Connor

Celebrities attended the annual fashion event in their most iconic looks for the theme: ‘In America: An Anthology of Fashion’

Here’s a look at some of the best looks:

The best dressed stars from the 2022 Met Gala