Playing with History - Price Prediction

Colman Domingo is ready to serve.

In just a few weeks, the “Sing Sing” actor (who’s one of the event co-chairs alongside Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams) has given a sneak peek of what attendees might experience when he makes his entrance at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 5 for the upcoming Met Gala.

He excitedly told Erin Lim Rhodes of The Rundown on TopMob News that the designs they had just finalized for the Fashion Trust U.S. Awards on April 8 were going to be stunning,” he said, hinting at something historical in his design.

Last year, the 55-year-old who captivated everyone with his striking presence disclosed that crafting his outfit for this year’s Costume Institute’s exhibition “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” required six different sketches to achieve its final, stunning form.

Colman stated that we collaboratively made some editorial choices. We kept elements that we were particularly fond of and took them a step further with others. This resulted in what I believe will resonate best with me and be spot-on. It’s also an opportunity to appreciate exceptional craftsmanship in tailoring. (Don’t forget to catch more from Colman on TopMob News tonight, April 9 at 11 p.m.)

Meanwhile, the actor from Euphoria chose not to reveal specifics about his style, but he shared that he aims to convey a particular atmosphere when attending trendy events like the Met Gala.

Colman shared that she strives for an effortless elegance. She wants to radiate a sense of being part of the excitement, while still maintaining a sense of calm and simplicity. She prefers not to be overly formal or meticulous.

As the attendees and co-chairs prepare their outfits for the May 5th event, continue reading to uncover fascinating backstage insights about this year’s Met Gala.

For those attending the Oscars for the first time, the nominated star offered some tips – particularly suggesting a certain celebrity as a role model for mastering the art of the Met Gala.

He suggested, “That carpet will be your most memorable instant,” he explained, then continued, “Observe Jennifer Lopez closely. Interestingly enough, that’s exactly what I did.

According to Colman, Selena, who was one of the co-chairs at last year’s Met Gala, seems to have mastered the art of walking on the red carpet. In his words, “There’s a specific way to handle that carpet, a way to feel comfortable and to ensure that every camera angle flatters you the most and makes you feel your absolute best.” He added, “You won’t end up with a bad photo.

As our attendees and co-chairs prepare their outfits for the May 5 occasion, here’s a sneak peek at some fascinating backstage secrets from this year’s Met Gala. Enjoy!

Should fortune smile upon you with an invitation to the year’s most prestigious fashion event, a single seat will set you back by $30,000, whereas a table can be yours for a price tag of $275,000.

Luckily, not everyone needs to pay for admission since Anna Wintour extends invitations to promising designers at the gala. In addition, the celebrities selected to showcase a designer’s creations on the red carpet typically do not need to cover the cost either.

Even with its high cost, it still doesn’t stop the fashionable group from being interested: It has a waiting list.

Cameron Silver, the vintage store owner who’s been to the event multiple times, shared with Page Six in 2017 that there are people known within society circles who might not have tickets but stand ready to attend if a vacant seat pops up at the last minute. These individuals often prepare their outfits well ahead of the event, even though they may not know for certain if they will actually secure a seat days before it takes place.

The size can fluctuate, and a gathering of around 500 people is often viewed as intimate and charming, while an event with over 800 attendees, which marks the maximum number ever hosted at the Met Gala, is considered excessively large.

Sylvana Ward Durrett from Vogue stated to Fast Company in 2017 that they aim to make the experience feel personal for their guests. Over the past few years, they’ve reduced the guest list significantly, dropping approximately 200-300 people.

Although known for its lavish and glamorous image, the organizers aim to create an exclusive atmosphere for the privileged few who are invited. In the film “The First Monday in May”, Ward Durrett is heard saying, “We want to maintain this as an intimate gathering; that’s why people attend this event.

Simply being a celebrity doesn’t guarantee that their significant other is automatically included as a plus one; each individual, regardless of their fame, needs to receive an invitation separately.

For those who love fashion, there’s no respite as preparations for the event typically begin on the Tuesday following the first Monday in May. It’s worth noting that about a hundred people work tirelessly on this event throughout the year, including ten full-time Vogue staff members.

As a connoisseur of streamlined organization, I wholeheartedly advocate for the one-page approach. Much like Ward Durrett, former director of special projects at Vogue, I find myself constantly managing a dynamic to-do list that tends to expand as deadlines loom nearer. Every day, regardless of repetition, I meticulously review and prioritize this list to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

To put it simply, the first item on her list is a tent. By listing out all the details related to this aspect, she ensures she considers every angle of the event, from beginning to end, and avoids overlooking any important details.

Regarding the extent of Anna Wintour’s involvement in the finer details, Andre Leon Talley, a former contributing editor at Vogue, stated in “The First Monday in May” that “Anna carefully scrutinizes every minute detail, from the napkins to the cutlery, lighting, flower arrangements, ushers’ attire, and more. She has been reviewing these details for months, even weeks, upon weeks.

Instead of keeping the details hidden near her famous Chanel dress, Vogue contributing editor Plum Sykes mentioned to The New York Post that Anna Wintour maintains a secretive approach, choosing not to reveal her plans or activities until she steps onto the red carpet and enters.

If you’ve ever struggled with setting up seating arrangements for a wedding, you might get a glimpse into the challenges faced when arranging the seating chart for the Met Gala. This is one of the most crucial elements of the event that the team invests significant time in, carefully placing guests based on shared interests and connections.

In the film “The First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett expressed that determining who sits next to whom involves a great deal of careful consideration, such as whether they sat together last year or have sat near each other at previous events. The extent of these considerations can be surprising, he said, and it’s essentially a matter of power-shaping or power-brokering.

Indeed, every year, the layout for seating experiences numerous alterations as the event evolves, with Ward Durett explaining to Vogue that she quickly discovered the value of using Velcro instead of post-it notes to prevent mistakes. “We’ve gone through countless versions of the seating plan,” she stated. “At first, we only had small sticky notes, and it was a disaster—things were constantly falling off, people were getting lost, and names were being rewritten a multitude of times daily.

Color-coding is often employed, as Ward Durrett tends to follow a pattern of seating women, then men, and so on if feasible. A surprising rule that might catch you off guard: “It’s best not to seat spouses next to each other,” she suggested. The main purpose of these events is to network and engage with new individuals, and what’s the fun in that if you’re merely socializing with your spouse? I’m afraid it means Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds might have to find separate seats!

At most events, there’s a particular table that often ends up with the best views, but it’s usually situated close to either the kitchen or the restrooms. The Met Gala isn’t any different in this regard, and as a result, the location of designers’ tables tends to shift every year.

In addition, Wintour is deeply engaged in the process, famously reprimanding her team for attempting to conceal an H&M table during the film The First Monday in May. She stated, “We mustn’t hide this table,” emphasizing, “really, that’s not right.

Despite not being classified as a luxury brand or atelier, retailers like H&M (who advertise in Vogue and other publications), Topshop, and Zara have been making their mark on fashion’s most prestigious event. H&M made a significant statement in 2015 when they dressed Sarah Jessica Parker in a custom-made gown for the occasion.

At highly prestigious events like this one, it’s common to find former partners and friends-turned-rivals sitting together. For instance, remember when Selena Gomez and The Weeknd attended an event with his ex Bella Hadid? Considering the history between Taylor Swift and Katy Perry, it would have been challenging for them to be at the same table during their feud’s peak. However, the importance of the occasion usually outweighs any potential discomfort among guests.

It’s impossible to satisfy everyone. We strive to believe that there isn’t a poor choice available, but in truth, there isn’t. However, it’s essential to feel assured that you are putting forth your best effort, and unfortunately, not everyone will be content with this. Nevertheless, we have generally had positive results. Such instances are rare, and when they do occur, we make an effort to work more closely with them the following year to ensure their expectations are met.” – Ward Durrett said.

In an unforgettable moment from the documentary “First Monday in May“, I strategically positioned three small reminders by my seating chart, subtly hinting to Ms. Wintour, “These individuals are ones I’m secretly wishing would find other engagements.

Oh, the agony I felt as I found myself seated far from my idol, John Lydon, a.k.a Johnny Rotten, during that event back in 2006! As Cathy Horn, a fashion critic at The New York Times, so eloquently put it, “John Lydon, the legendary ex-Sex Pistol, was relegated to the least desirable seat at the long table, and his obvious displeasure was evident…he stormed out not once, but twice, cursing the museum staff.” I couldn’t help but feel a pang of empathy for my hero as he yearned for a better view.

He eventually took his seat.

In a 2018 interview on The Late Late Show, James Corden inquired if Anna Wintour could think of any celebrity she wouldn’t extend an invitation to the Met Gala again.

To that, she replied: “Trump,” referring to then-President Donald Trump. The Trumps, specifically Donald and Melania, have made appearances at the Met Gala on multiple occasions throughout the years. However, their last visit up those well-known steps was back in 2012.

It seems another notable figure, the former mentor on Project Runway, Tim Gunn, has claimed to have been shunned from the Met Gala. This is said to be due to an alleged incident where he shared a story about Anna Wintour with The Post, which she reportedly found less than flattering.

In a conversation on Fashion Police at TopMob in 2016, he expressed that the situation became chaotic and out of control, almost unbelievable. Since then, there has been continuous conflict between us.

Indeed, I can confirm that a meal is indeed part of the event’s schedule, a fact even Stephen Colbert has acknowledged. He mentioned that we, the guests, were asked to hold off on dining until Anna Wintour took her seat.

And, like every other aspect, Wintour is heavily involved in the menu planning for each gala.

A Vogue staff member disclosed to The Post that Wintour forbids certain ingredients due to their potential to get stuck between teeth (like parsley), cause unpleasant breath (such as excessive garlic), or most offensively, stain gowns. Therefore, appetizers are designed to be effortlessly consumed.

Typically, Wintour likes the menu to align with the overall theme. However, it doesn’t always go as planned.

Sean Driscoll, proprietor of Glorious Food, shared that the choice to serve lamb potpies at the 2011 Met Gala themed “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” led to a surge of unique requests since several attendees expressed reluctance towards consuming the dish.

Apart from desiring delicious cuisine, they also place emphasis on visual appeal. As revealed by director Andrew Rossi, this was evident when he attended a tasting with Wintour. During this event, he observed Wintour meticulously scrutinizing various food options on her phone, indicating a keen interest in the presentations of diverse dishes.

The reason behind the establishment of this rule remains unclear, as no clear explanation has ever been provided for prohibiting selfies and social media usage at the stylish event that frequently triggers FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). However, it was Anna Wintour who made this decision in 2015.

During that period, a Vogue informant shared with Pret-a-Reporter that an announcement was sent to everyone invited, advising them, “Photography and social media usage with mobile devices won’t be allowed within the gala event.

Instead of commenting on the report, the magazine opted to remain silent. However, a source revealed to The Hollywood Reporter back then, “It was all about ensuring guests’ safety and their pleasure during the event.

In the movie, The First Monday in May, it was evident that Anna Wintour strongly disapproved of using phones at the event, as shown when she found out a well-known male celebrity (whose name was intentionally hidden by Wintour) had changed his mind and decided to attend, despite originally declining. Her response to Ward Durrett was, “Isn’t it possible for him not to be on his phone the entire time?

As a committed admirer, I’d express in my own words that Anna leans towards traditional values. She cherishes social gatherings such as dinner parties where individuals engage in meaningful conversation face-to-face. While we don’t intrude on others’ privacy, if there’s a need for a friendly reminder about appropriate etiquette, we may subtly suggest it.

Nevertheless, even with Wintour’s prohibition, celebrity shutterbugs have repeatedly flouted the rule on numerous occasions, such as Kylie Jenner’s notorious bathroom selfie during the 2017 event.

To put it simply, the rule is that you need to be at least 18 years old to participate in the grand occasion. This age requirement was made clear for the 2018 Met Gala following Maddie Ziegler’s disclosure that she couldn’t attend as she was just 15 years old, as stated in her interview with The Hollywood Reporter. So, she shared, “I can’t go because I’m not yet of the legal age!

As a die-hard enthusiast, let me share this exciting bit of news: I, being part of the event crew, clarified to THR that our upcoming event isn’t suitable for those under 18 years old. This new rule was implemented in the very same year.

Before 2018, notable young attendees were the Smith siblings, Jaden Smith and Willow Smith (aged 17 and 15 respectively), who attended in 2016. Also, Elle Fanning first appeared at the event when she was 13 years old. Hailee Steinfeld also graced the Met Gala for the first time at just 14 years of age in 2011.

However, it appears there’s an exception for young trendsetters in Hollywood: If their parents are present, minors can accompany them.

Although Wintour ultimately decides what each guest wears, their outfits don’t necessarily require her explicit approval (even though she always stays informed about what appears on the red carpet).

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it this way: “Every celebrity gets to wear a design by a fashion visionary, much like assignments, as Andre Leon Talley explained in ‘The First Monday in May.’ Take Riccardo Tisci, former Givenchy creative director, who adorned Beyoncé and Madonna for the 2016 Met Gala. He elaborated that each designer embodies their own muse, choosing individuals who best embody their unique aesthetic.

In essence, it’s primarily the fashion designer who extends an invitation to an event that determines the celebrity’s appearance at the function.

Every year, our gala features a specific theme – this year is “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion”, while last year was “Camp: Notes on Fashion. However, there are no set rules for how guests or designers should interpret these themes.

However, one might wonder about the method of selecting the theme. This process is initiated more than a year prior to the first Monday in May. It’s Andrew Bolton, the dedicated curator of The Costume Institute at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, who carefully chooses a topic that resonates culturally and reflects current relevance.

He shared with Vogue that his goal is to focus on topics that are currently relevant and mark a cultural transition, either ongoing or imminent. In our collections, we strive for a balance, moving between themes from different eras and shows centered around a single designer. We aim to keep things interesting by presenting a variety of approaches.

Once he has made a decision on what he is looking for, he submits this choice to the museum director for their approval. Ahead of time by approximately one year, Wintour gives his final approval on it.

The respected British curator clarified that achieving the task would prove challenging without her assistance. Anna identifies potential sponsors suitable for the exhibition. Occasionally, I may have an idea, but it might not be grand or widely appealing to sponsors.

As a dedicated follower, I eagerly await my turn on the red carpet, where tradition and glamour intertwine. Once I’ve navigated the legendary steps, I find myself in a receiving line greeting Anna Wintour and an extraordinary assembly of hosts for the year 2024 – none less than Bad Bunny, Zendaya, Chris Hemsworth, and Jennifer Lopez. This moment is always filled with warmth and camaraderie, as we exchange heartfelt greetings in a leisurely fashion, complete with air kisses and pleasant conversation that seems to stretch on forever.

Afterward, they are given an opportunity to stroll through The Costume Institute’s exhibition prior to its public opening. Following this, it’s lunchtime, along with socializing and professional connections, featuring music, dancing, and performances by stars such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga.

When it comes to the big-name artists, a significant portion of the pressure when organizing the Met Gala comes from arranging an entertaining evening for everyone involved.

In the well-known account found in “The First Monday in May”, Ward Durrett encountered a significant financial predicament upon attempting to secure Rihanna’s performance at that year’s gala event.

She remarked that Rihanna’s unspecified payment was roughly double what we’ve ever paid for any artist before, following a call with someone from her management team. They’re unwilling to negotiate any lower figure.

Eventually, Wintour was called to step in and figure out the situation.

At the event, celebrities can also have their personal security personnel present, alongside the security personnel provided by the museum for the red-carpet area.

Indeed, it’s the items that demand the greatest protection that are usually the jewels. For instance, one year, Lively adorned herself with jewels valued at $3.5 million, while Kloss was once bedecked in $2.5 million worth of Forevermark jewels for a particular event.

A Forevermark representative shared with TopMob News that due to the extraordinarily high worth of the items, every step of the security protocol is strictly confidential. However, a security officer is always on duty until the items are securely handed back. Furthermore, additional safety measures such as RFID tracking devices and video surveillance are employed for added protection.

So yes, Ocean’s 8 definitely got that aspect of the Met Gala right.

Since most dresses worn at the Met Gala are custom-made or selected from a designer’s historical collection, it’s uncommon for celebrities to get to keep these gowns. Typically, they return the dresses to the design house for storage in their archive instead.

In 2018, Balmain’s designer Olivier Rousteing collaborated with Bono’s RED organization to auction off unique pieces worn by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, and Trevor Noah. All the earnings from these sales were donated directly to the Global Fund supported by the foundation.

At the 2021 event, participants were obligated to use face masks and present evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination. This rule resulted in rapper Nicki Minaj deciding not to join the stylish celebrations.

On Twitter, Minaj stated that getting vaccinated isn’t her intention for a Met event. Instead, she plans to do more research before making a decision. Until then, she encourages everyone to stay safe and wear a snug-fitting mask with two strings, not the loose one.

2025-04-09 19:48

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