Fashion’s Biggest Night Begins As Stars Depart For Met Gala

The annual Met Gala festivities officially began as stars began their high-fashion parade from Manhattan’s luxury hotels toward the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour was among the first to depart the Mark Hotel, signaling the start of the evening's arrivals. As the architect of the modern gala, Wintour's departure sets the tempo for one of the most significant nights in the global fashion calendar.

Crowds and photographers gathered outside the hotel to catch the first glimpses of the avant-garde looks before they reached the famous museum steps. Joining the early wave of departures was tennis legend and gala co-chair Venus Williams, alongside singer Sam Smith. Their appearances offered an initial look at how the year's specific theme would be interpreted by the industry's most influential figures and their designers.

What follows is one of the most scrutinized red carpets in the world, where the intersection of celebrity, art, and high fashion generates massive cultural conversation and serves as a major fundraiser for the Costume Institute. While the gala itself is a private, high-security affair, the "perp walk" from hotels like the Mark has become a tradition for fans seeking an up-close look at the intricate couture. Observers will be watching to see which designers dominate the night and how the co-chairs set the tone for the event's aesthetic.

This report is based on video coverage and reporting by The Guardian.