Actor Jared Leto appeared on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Monday night dressed as “Choupette,” Karl Lagerfeld’s beloved pet Burmese cat, in a white, fluffy costume with blue eyes. American rapper and singer Doja Cat also paid homage to the famous feline, wearing a prosthetic cat nose and a hooded Oscar de la Renta gown with cat ears.
This year’s Met Gala, an invitation-only event that marks the opening of the Costume Institute’s annual fashion exhibit, has the theme “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” in honor of the late German designer who was creative director for fashion houses including Chanel and Fendi, as well as his namesake brand. Guests were asked to dress “in honor of Karl.” American basketball star Brittney Griner arrived in a champagne Calvin Klein suit, while singer Rihanna was the last to arrive in a white, hooded Valentino gown covered in large camellias.
Many celebrities opted for looks that were romantic and antique, with a plethora of pastel vintage Chanel gowns, pearl necklaces, and camellias on the red carpet. The theme of this year’s gala is meant to celebrate the work and life of Karl Lagerfeld, who loved something a little edgy and nasty, according to American fashion designer Michael Kors. American fashion designer Marc Jacobs also commented on Lagerfeld’s impact on the fashion industry.
The event is co-chaired by Spanish actress Penelope Cruz, Swiss tennis great Roger Federer, and Vogue Editor Anna Wintour, who has organized and presided over the event since 1995. Vogue Editor Anna Wintour selected Ghanaian-British screenwriter and actress Michaela Coel to be a co-chair because she is unafraid to be herself, telling her that Karl’s journey was to try to learn to be unafraid of being himself, according to the actress.