The Met Gala 2017

Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons

Art of the In-between

The Met Gala is one of those events, more than any other in the fashion world that takes my interest to a whole other level. This year’s theme, Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons Art of the In-between was no different. I would know Rei Kawakubo’s work from a distance and come fashion season I would always watch a Comme des Garçons collection but if I’m honest I struggle with the fashion versus art debate, the images and conflict her work presents.

When I heard The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York was honouring the work of Rei Kawakubo I took notice and possibly a little too late. Once I started researching, reading and what I can only describe as inspecting,  I was like a moth to a flame. Barely scraping the surface of her body of work I became more intrigued with her concepts and her ability to transport these to the fashion world. If I’m honest, I was counting down to the first Monday in May.

The other thing that always intrigues me about The Met Gala is imagining how those on the guest list honour the theme. Is it their interpretation of the theme or in this case, is it life imitating art, literally? Last night at first glance, I was disappointed with the lack of Rei Kawakubo pieces on the red carpet. Surely this was the night to go all out and embrace avant-garde in a way one may not normally do? This morning, with a little more time I once again started inspecting and I found what I was hoping for. Authentic Comme des Garçons pieces or individual homage to the challenges Rei Kawabkubo has presented over the years. Some referenced specific collections, others specific pieces and this is what I enjoy most about this event.

In complete contrast, it appeared some on the red carpet gave no thought to the theme and just put on a pretty frock and I have no time for them. If you haven’t already looked at last night’s red carpet, do so at your own pleasure. Instead my mind is here, with Rei Kawakubo and her work at Comme des Garçons.