The Met Gala is notorious for its high-fashion moments, and Gigi Hadid certainly didn’t disappoint this year. As she arrived on the red carpet, fashion enthusiasts collectively sighed with relief at her bold choice, moving away from the conventional tuxedo to showcase something truly extraordinary.
Hadid graced the 2024 Met Gala wearing a custom creation by Thom Browne, a design that perfectly blended Old Hollywood glamour with avant-garde suiting. Her gown featured an off-the-shoulder corset bodice adorned with delicate lace detailing at the back, paying homage to the “Garden of Time” theme. But the real showstopper was the innovative structure of the dress. Rather than flowing into a typical skirt, Hadid’s ensemble was layered with a striking white and black suit jacket that elegantly draped over her figure. The artistry behind securing the jacket was undoubtedly a testament to Browne’s unique craftsmanship.
Flowing from the jacket was an eye-catching train, designed with layers of ruffled fabric and embellished with yellow roses. Thom Browne, who accompanied Hadid in one of his signature suits, is celebrated for his dramatic and imaginative tailoring. His interpretation of the night’s theme, “Sleeping Beauties,” featured a princess-like dress ingeniously combined with a tailored men’s suit, making a powerful statement both from the front and back.
As Hadid posed for photographers, the true sculpture-like qualities of her ensemble came to life, highlighting the intricate details and craftsmanship. To complete her look, she opted for a bold red lip, a radiant makeup finish, and a dazzling diamond necklace that caught the light beautifully. In a nod to classic Hollywood, Hadid also debuted a chic bob haircut, adding to the overall elegance of her appearance.
The creation of this stunning gown was no small feat. Reports indicate that it required the dedication of 70 artisans and an astonishing 13,500 hours to bring to life. Just the beading alone involved 2.8 million beads, which took 5,000 hours to embroider by hand, underscoring the immense labor and artistry involved in crafting such a masterpiece.
“It’s always a privilege to watch Gigi come to life. She is a true talent that shines at whatever she does,” Browne told Vogue. “I wanted her look to embody the fragility and immense work that you see in Andrew [Bolton]’s exhibit, blooming on the carpet and into the Metropolitan Museum of Art.”