Ethereal glamour and serene creation are the themes for H&M’s one-of-a-kind looks, created just for this year’s Met Gala in New York. The looks, designed by H&M’s in-house team, are inspired by this year’s exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art; “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination”, exploring the relationship between fashion and masterworks of religious art.
To dress its guests, H&M’s design team evolved each look with the wearer and theme in mind, using techniques such as draping, beading and embellishment, in glistening metallic shades. “Designing these H&M looks for this year’s Met Gala has been an honour,” says Ann-Sofie Johansson, Creative Advisor at H&M. “Each look has been entirely custom-made, focusing on rich detail and a modern take on red carpet glamour. We wanted each of our guests to feel both serene and effortless.”
Lili Reinhart
Actress Lili Reinhart wore a silver dress inspired by armour. A cloud-like drape of silver lamé organza was held by a silver corset, creating a dramatic contrast between control and flow. The corset was decorated with chunky metal chains in antique silver, while silver lame organza was draped first as a mini-skirt, before billowing into a long train. “This is my first Met gala… I still can’t believe I’m going'” said Reinhart. “I feel honoured to be surrounded by such incredible artists and wear this customized gown. I feel like a gilded princess.”
Olivia Munn
Actress and model Olivia Munn wore a daring sleeveless chainmail dress that draped over her body like liquid. Golden chainmail was cut long and lean, with a plunging neckline and open sides, held by links of golden rings that reveal the skin beneath. “I love how this chainmail dress takes the theme of the exhibition and pushes it somewhere modern and fresh,” says Munn. “It’s so much fun to wear.”
Alek Wek
Model and activist Alek Wek wore a draped, flowing gown that took inspiration from mosaics. A long train of silver and jewel tones was created from a pattern of beading and sequins. The mosaic-like pattern also appeared at the off-the-shoulder bust, which was contrasted with a waist and skirt in deep red double silk, lined in gold and slit high at the front. “The hand-beading and embroidery that has gone into this dress is extraordinary,” says Wek. “It is so perfect to wear on this special night,”
Kiersey Clemons
Actress Kiersey Clemons wore a richly beaded dress like a net of gold and pearl. This diamond-shaped embroidered net sat close against the body with a deep neckline, leading to a full yet straight skirt held by a soft crinoline, the embellished net sitting on sheer nude organza.
Jasmine Sanders
Model and actress Jasmine Sanders wore a voluminous gown of gold metal lamé. The gown was softly draped off the shoulder, then held by an elegant slim waist. The dress then released into a dramatic full silhouette, a high slit revealing Jasmine’s legs to emphasise the modern lightness.
Luka Sabbat
Model and influencer Luka Sabbat wore an extravagant robe entirely hand-embroidered with sequins. The intricate pattern was made from sequins in antique silver, deep red, burgundy, gold and royal blue, while the cuffs, shawl collar and lining were in black silk. Luka also wore tuxedo trousers made from sustainable materials organic silk, tencel and wool.
