Unlocking the Mysteries of Met Gala: Rules, Secrets, and Exclusive Insights
Explore the enigmatic regulations attendees must adhere to at the Met Gala, including the stringent no-phone policy.
If your invitation to the 2024 Met Gala hasn’t arrived yet, but you’re still hopeful for next year, here are the mandates that govern participants in this exclusive affair.
Renowned as the pinnacle of fashion events, countless A-listers grace the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, adorned in extravagant attire as they step into the event.
However, despite the plethora of photographers and journalists granted access to the exterior of this prestigious, invitation-only gathering, the festivities themselves remain shrouded in secrecy and exclusivity.
Anna Wintour, Vogue’s editor-in-chief, who has overseen the Met Gala as either chair or co-chair since 1995, strongly advises against divulging the happenings once this lavish, star-studded occasion commences.
In its article “Everything to Know About the Met Gala,” Vogue underlines the secrecy, stating, “In short, it’s a secret. (Give us nothing!)
Hence, attendees are restricted from phone and social media usage during the event to maintain the aura of mystery surrounding one of the most coveted tickets in town. Additionally, the museum itself imposes stringent regulations on attendees to safeguard its invaluable collections.
Delve into the most unexpected regulations and directives that Met Gala attendees must comply with.
Invitations are Mandatory for Met Gala Attendance
Securing a spot at the Met Gala necessitates an invitation (and receiving one invitation doesn’t guarantee subsequent invitations!). Celebrities, sports personalities, fashion icons, and other prominent figures in pop culture today are among the select few who receive invitations.
The elite guest list remains confidential until the eve of the Met Gala, although fashion enthusiasts speculate based on past years. Regular attendees often include Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, Blake Lively, Gigi Hadid, and Rihanna.
Furthermore, fashion designers receive invitations as they frequently accompany their muses on the red carpet, showcasing their elaborate creations. Notable designers such as Marc Jacobs, Christian Siriano, Nicolas Ghesquière, and Zac Posen are perennial fixtures.
Met Gala Tickets Come with a Price Tag
Receiving an invitation is just the initial step; attendees must also purchase a ticket or be the guest of someone who has. Ultimately, the Met Gala is a fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with proceeds contributing to its extensive fashion collection spanning seven centuries.
Hence, if fortunate enough to receive an invitation from Wintour, be prepared to shell out thousands of dollars for entry. According to Time, individual tickets cost $75,000 this year (a 30% increase from last year’s $50,000), while a table starts at $350,000.
Met Gala Dress Code is a Must-Follow
Each year, the Costume Institute curates an exhibition featuring art-quality fashion pieces. The gala theme informs attendees’ attire for the evening. This year’s theme is “The Garden of Time,” inspired by J.G. Ballard’s 1962 short story of the same name.
The dress code remains a focal point of discussion, as high-profile celebrities and the designers who dress them conjure up creative interpretations of the theme. Some opt for literal representations, while others embrace avant-garde styles—as Katy Perry did in 2019 with her haute hamburger ensemble.
Prior Approval Required for Met Gala Outfits
Before designers unveil their creations on the red carpet, they must secure Wintour’s coveted stamp of approval.
According to journalist Amy Odell, the Vogue editor-in-chief pre-approves all outfits well in advance of the event.
No Phones Allowed at the Met Gala
Vogue enforces a strict “no-phone policy” within the event premises.
Social Media Posts Forbidden at the Met Gala
The no-phone policy extends to a ban on social media posts from within the event. However, when attendees convene in the restroom, all social media bets are off!
Smoking Prohibited at the Met Gala
While Vogue implements its own guidelines, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has rules in place to ensure guest safety. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on museum premises and near entrances.
Assigned Seating at the Met Gala
Guests are assigned seats at the gala, with party planner Eaddy Kiernan overseeing the process. Kiernan aims to create an enjoyable atmosphere, pairing guests who are likely to engage well and ensuring that former flames aren’t seated uncomfortably close.
Guest Age Requirement at the Met Gala
Met Gala attendees must be at least 18 years old, a rule highlighted in 2018 when Dance Moms alum Maddie Ziegler mentioned she couldn’t attend due to age restrictions.
The theme that year was “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” leading to speculation about the age restriction’s connection to the theme. However, event organizers clarified that it was a general policy decision, deeming the event unsuitable for individuals under 18.