The woman who turned the Met Gala into the biggest party of the year

The Met Gala in New York City is an annual event that brings together celebrities, fashion, and media attention. While it serves as a fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, which holds a vast collection of historical costumes and fashion artifacts, for many, it’s a time when social media is flooded with posts and live streams of A-listers showcasing their elaborate outfits on the iconic steps of the museum.

The gala has evolved significantly from its early days as a local fashion industry fundraiser, thanks to individuals like Diana Vreeland, a former fashion editor, who turned it into a global media sensation. Initially launched in 1948 to raise funds for the institute, the gala was transformed by figures such as Dorothy Shaver, who boosted its reputation and revenue. Subsequent leaders like Vreeland brought bold themes and attracted widespread media coverage, turning the gala into a pop culture phenomenon.

Vreeland’s innovative approach to exhibition planning, use of corporate sponsorships, and inclusion of celebrities like Andy Warhol and Diana Ross reshaped the gala into a star-studded event. Following Vreeland’s tenure, the gala experienced some decline but was later revitalized by fashion industry leaders and high-end brands, maintaining its status as a global media spectacle. Today, the gala continues to thrive as a platform where corporate branding, celebrity culture, and high culture intersect, with each year’s theme attracting significant attention and participation.