BEST DRESSED: 2021 Met Gala but Make it Black
BALDWIN’S best looks from the 2021 Met Gala directly from the iconic red carpet. Fashion Writer EnJanae’ Taylor reports.
The MET Gala is back and it’s Black.
With this year’s theme “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” guests showed what American fashion meant to them through their ensembles. American fashion wouldn’t be fashion without Black influence and style. Here’s our list of standout 2021 MET Gala looks worn or designed by Black people — saving the best for last.
Leon Bridges
Inspired by his southern roots, singer Leon Bridges wore a country look on the MET red carpet. Bridges expressed how he doesn’t represent the politics of his home state of Texas, but still has pride in where he’s from. I think that’s very respectful and something many people from the south can relate to. Wearing Bode and Cartier, Bridges stood out as one of the best dressed men at the event — cowboy hat and all.
Saweetie
The icy girl herself Saweetie wore a bold and sexy look by Christian Cowan. Showing what American fashion means to her, the gown displayed a train with both the Black Heritage and the Filipino flag. It showed who she was and followed the theme. We had to stan.
MJ Rodriguez
“Live! Work! Pose!” MJ Rodriguez did just that on the MET Gala red carpet. The Emmy-nominated actress stunned in an intricate look by Thom Browne. It was detailed, chic and eye-catching. “What you see at my table is very representative of American fashion and how it’s viewed around the world,” Browne told Variety. Rodriguez is repping in the best way possible. “10s across the board!”
Normani
Not only does she serve performances but she also serves looks. Singer Normani turned heads on the carpet in a yellow gown by Valentino. From head to toe the look was flawless. I expect countless more jaw-dropping looks from her in the future. Her first MET look is already top for me, I’m excited to see what she’ll wear next year if she returns.
Storm Reid
Zendaya couldn’t make the party due to her Euphoria filming schedule, so she sent her mini me Storm Reid instead. Little sis did not disappoint. Wearing Prada, Storm brought nothing but sunshine to the carpet — glowing as she walked the runway. From head to toe the look was amazing, not surprising when it was styled by the incredible Jason Bolden.
Yara Shahidi
Beauty and brains are always a great combination. Yara Shahidi is one of the great young Black voices of our generation. Inspired by Josephine Baker, Shahidi wore Dior in a way that only she could. The gown, the jewels, the gloves, the veil, the train — everything was done just right.
Lupita Nyong’o
Ms. Lupita understood the assignment. It wouldn’t be an American fashion theme without blue jeans. The Versace denim dress was American couture at its finest. Lupita did something interesting with her hair, taking the full look into consideration. Her hairstylist Vernon Francois got inspiration from Brooklyn artist Lorna Simpson. Black girl magic at its finest!
Iman
This look shined brighter than the sun on the carpet — thanks to designer Harris Reed. The look fit for a supermodel including a gigantic headpiece and overskirt. It’s crazy but it works. It’s the MET Gala after all. Some played it safe but Iman went all out and it paid off.
Simone Biles
Superstar gymnast Simone Biles is a great representation of America. She’s shown perseverance, strength, courage and how Black girls can win for years. She won again wearing a 98-pound dress to the event. Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk designed the dress that “used more than 17,000 feet of Swarovski glass crystal chains and nearly 200 feet of tulle,” according to the New York Times.
Lil Nas X
No one shut down the carpet like Lil Nas X. The singer had not one, not two, but three looks he showed one after the other, unveiling each with a bold reveal on the carpet. The first look was a grand gold cape made for a king. The second look was futuristic gold robot attire. The third and final look was a dazzling gold one piece. All three looks were done by Versace and done very well. Lil Nas X is here to make statements through his music and through fashion, and I’m here for it.
Honorable Mention
There are five other great looks that didn’t quite make the cut but deserve the hype nonetheless.
Bill de Blasio
Wearing Brooklyn’s own Dreu Beckemberg, politician Bill de Blasio looked dapper in a blue and black suit stepping up his usual style, landing him an honorable mention.
Kerbito
After an amazing Paris Couture Fashion Week debut, Kerby Jean-Raymond brought his cool New York style to the event in an all red look that set him apart from the other designers.
Megan Thee Stallion
The hot girl coach herself Megan Thee Stallion wore her a Hollywood glamour inspired Coach look to her first MET Gala that was more subtle but still glamorous.
Amanda Gorman
Co-chair Amanda Gorman wore custom Vera Wang and her clutch alone, references the poem on the Statue of Liberty with it stating “give me your tired,” was enough to earn an honorable mention.
Keke Palmer
Co-host of Vogue’s very first livestream event for the MET, Keke Palmer looked radiant in Sergio Hudson, but her great energy and positivity throughout the night sold the whole look for me even more.
