After the Met Gala announced their theme of dedicating Karl Lagerfeld’s legacy “A Line of Beauty, ” I couldn’t help but feel disappointed. Although I appreciate the artistic approach that Karl Lagerfeld has done for Chanel, I still don’t feel as though it was impactful. Here is a list of designers and creative directors that should have been honored in next spring’s Met Gala.
Ann Lowe was the first Black woman to become a notable fashion designer. Ann Lowe is most famous for her wedding dress garment that was made for Jackie Kennedy on her wedding day. Her clientele included the Roosevelts, the du Ponts, and the Rockefellers. Sadly even with highly notable figures, her name was kept a secret due to discrimination. Her legacy and designs deserve the recognition and applause that was never shown in her prime years especially since her garments are displayed in the Costume Institute in the Met.
After his passing last year, the French designer left a legacy of wonders in fantasies. His push in empowering women through creative self-expression left a tasteful recipe in the eyes of fashion. When looking at his designs, each garment tells a story without a word being said. He created whimsical and erotic designs that elevated what it means to be an artist. Especially his inclusivity by featuring trans models and drag queens on his runway. His strong approach in the fashion industry emphasized body inclusivity and gender identities in his runway shows.
This Dominican-born designer gave the fashion industry elegance in the evening and formal wear for women. His notable clientele included people such as Michelle Obama, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jackie Kennedy, and many more! Creating a line for modern yet feminine attire, Oscar had a notable history of blending European luxury with American ease (Britannica). From being a Dominican designer working for Cristóbal Balenciaga, to eventually working as Lanvin-Castillo’s assistant to the head designer, and then starting his line in New York City, he made the most of his opportunities. Oscar De La Renta has also dedicated giving back to his home country by building a school and daycare center for children in the Dominican Republic.
As there are many more notable designers that should be included in this list, they would have brought a better light to the Met Gala’s 2023 theme. As a museum institution, how are you going to have garments from a devoted designer like Ann Lowe, and choose another? As this is my opinion, I felt that the Met Gala should’ve taken a better and closer look at other possible designers, especially ones who didn’t have a past of being problematic.