The 2021 Met Gala took place on September 13, and looks were meant to be served. This year, the theme was American Independence, showcasing the evolution and importance of American fashion throughout the last 245 years. Many attendees dressed in denim or gowns that emphasized the importance of protest and red, white and blue. 

While the Met Gala is a coveted event, there are very few ways to become invited. The only ways to be invited to the Gala are by donating large amounts of money, being an “It” celebrity or sponsoring the Gala itself. 

The world-renowned “party of the year” originated in 1948 by fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert, in an effort to raise funds for the newly-found Costume Institute while inaugurating its annual exhibit. Today, the tickets to attend the Gala are worth $30,000 with proceeds being donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

Each year, stars such as Rhianna, Blake Lively and Kim Kardashian are invited to the Gala, and each year they are dressed to impress. With the Gala’s fashion origin, celebrities and attendees are encouraged to dress to fit the theme, allowing for critics to rave over these fashion statements. 

This year, with the American Independence theme, attendees such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Carolyn Maloney and Megan Rapinoe took this opportunity to exhibit their political views and the causes they believe in. Ocasio-Cortez served in a custom Brother Vellies ivory wool jacket and organza flounce gown, with the statement “tax the rich” across her back. 

While Ocasio-Cortez’s gown did receive backlash and rave from critics, other attendees decided to embellish the American-based theme in creative ways. Model Kim Kardashian was seen in a  black Balenciaga full bodysuit, while sister Kendall Jenner attended in a full sheer and Swarvoski crystal, Givenchy a-line gown. 

 Kim Kardashian’s unique choice in attire has sparked many conversations amongst fans and critics alike. 

Sophomore Timber Dietrich shares her input on the unique and showstopping bodysuit. “Honestly, I was shocked to see Kim [Kardashian] wearing that. I understand it was meant to promote Kanye West’s new album, but that was the last thing I was expecting.” 

Some stars did acknowledge former American icons throughout the night. Singer/songwriter Billie Eilish attended the Gala in a custom Oscar de la Renta ball gown to pay homage to the late Marilyn Monroe. 

While the Gala is one of the most craved events throughout the year, fashion trends begin to rise stemming from the styles worn on the red carpet.