How To Watch The Met Gala Red Carpet Live

by Harper's Bazaar ArabiaMay 1, 2023May 1, 2023

The countdown is on, with less than 24 hours until the “Oscars of Fashion” kicks off…

How to watch the Met Gala red carpet live: Bazaar Arabia shares everything you need to know about the benefit ahead of tonight’s hotly anticipated red carpet arrivals.

The first Monday of May is, arguably, one of the most important dates within the fashion calendar… and while us mere mortals can only imagine what goes on inside the unveiling of the newest exhibition at The Costume Institute, many of us obsessively follow along via social media.

Want to see the outfits in real-time, as the celebrities arrive at the red carpet after hours of preparation and dressing at a nearby hotel (The Mark comes to mind)? Bazaar Arabia shares how to watch the Met Gala red carpet live, from anywhere in the world.

When Was The First Met Gala?

The Met Gala, formally called the Costume Institute Gala or the Costume Institute Benefit, is considered one of the most significant events in the fashion calendar. It is an annual fundraising gala for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City, and it has become known as the “Oscars of Fashion.” However, the first Met Gala, held in 1948, was a much simpler affair compared to the extravagant and star-studded events of recent years.

The inaugural event was held on December 4, 1948, and was hosted by fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert. It was attended by around 300 guests, who paid $50 for a ticket. The event was held at the Waldorf Astoria hotel, and the dress code was “white tie and decorations.”

While the first Met Gala was a more modest affair, it set the foundation for the event’s future success. The Costume Institute Benefit has since become a highly anticipated event, attracting the biggest names in fashion, entertainment, and art. Each year, the event’s theme is inspired by the museum’s current exhibition, and attendees are expected to dress to impress, with many taking creative risks and wearing extravagant, one-of-a-kind designs.

The first Met Gala may have been a simpler affair, but it marked the beginning of an event that has become an integral part of the fashion industry’s calendar. It demonstrated the power of fashion to bring together people from various disciplines and create a platform for creativity and self-expression.

Who Will Be Attending The 2023 Met Gala?

While the guest list is always kept under wraps (however, a few celebrities have slyly confirmed their attendance), you can count on spotting co-chairs Michaela Coel, Dua Lipa, Penelope Cruz and Roger Federer at the star-studded event, along with long-time Met Gala Chair Anna Wintour. Emma Chamberlain will also be in attendance as a special correspondent.

What is This Year’s Met Gala Theme?

As the Spring 2023 exhibition theme is “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”, this year’s Met Gala will honour the late German designer.

Karl Lagerfeld was a fashion icon, designer, and creative genius. Born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1933, he moved to Paris as a teenager and began working in the fashion industry, eventually becoming one of the most influential designers of his time.

Karl began his career in the fashion industry as an assistant to Pierre Balmain, before moving on to work for a number of high-profile fashion houses, including Chloe and Fendi. However, it was his work as the creative director of Chanel that cemented his place in fashion history.

Karl took over the reins at Chanel in 1983. He breathed new life into the brand, reinterpreting the classic Chanel look for a modern audience. He was known for his bold designs, his use of luxurious fabrics, and his ability to create iconic pieces that were both timeless and contemporary.

In addition to his work at Chanel, Karl was also known for his personal style. He was rarely seen without his signature black sunglasses, white ponytail, and tailored suits. He was a larger-than-life figure in the fashion world, known for his sharp wit and candid remarks.

Karl’s contributions to the fashion industry were numerous, and his influence can still be seen today. He was a true visionary, whose designs and ideas continue to inspire designers and fashion lovers around the world.

He passed away in 2019, but his legacy will live on in the fashion world for years to come.

Can You Buy Tickets To The Met Gala?

The short answer is no. The Met Gala is invite-only and the tickets are usually only offered to brands and “wealthy individuals,” according to The Washington Post. Individual tickets reportedly cost $50,000, with tables going for a whopping $300,000.

What Time Does The Met Gala Red Carpet Start?

This year’s Met Gala will see celebrities walk the red carpet starting from 18:00 ET on Monday, May 1/ 2:00 GST on May 2, 2023.

Is The Met Gala Televised?

According to Yahoo! Entertainment the Met Gala will be televised on E! Network – meaning those who have access can watch the red carpet arrivals from their television