Kim Kardashian was the center of attention at the 2024 Met Gala on May 6, hosted at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Her attire for the event sparked a lot of discussion.
Kardashian, a reality TV star and businesswoman, wore a custom Maison Margiela Artisanal gown created by John Galliano. The outfit featured a unique metal corset that reduced her waist size substantially. This fashion decision has since ignited a debate about her comfort and safety.
Responses from fans and onlookers have varied. Some admired the beauty and craftsmanship of the gown, while others expressed anxiety about the physical limitations it seemed to impose. “Looking at her, I just wanted to offer her a deep breath,” one Gala attendee remarked, alluding to the corset’s apparent tightness.
The custom gown combined a comfortable grey cashmere cardigan with a couture corset made from antique silver brocade, and a silver metal-embellished skirt. The design was intended to resemble lace, flowers, leaves, and sprigs. The luxury fashion brand stated that the design drew inspiration from Elizabeth Taylor’s love for jewelry. The entire ensemble was in line with the theme of 2024’s Met Gala, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” which highlighted delicate fashion items in a natural context.
Nevertheless, the severe waist-reducing effect of the metal corset has raised health concerns and questions about the body image standards it represents. Medical experts have warned that such tight-lacing can significantly decrease lung capacity, interfere with the cardiovascular and digestive systems, and even result in chronic pain and posture problems.
Despite any discomfort, Kardashian stated in a red-carpet interview that she appreciates the visual impact of the corset. “It’s all worth it when you love the aesthetic,” she noted, underscoring the dramatic power of bold fashion statements.
Kardashian’s Met Gala outfits have consistently provoked discussions about the extent to which fashion should push the human body. In 2022, she wore Marilyn Monroe’s dress, which required her to lose 16 pounds in three weeks, causing health issues like psoriasis outbreaks and psoriatic arthritis.
Many critics on social media and elsewhere have voiced concerns that such extreme looks perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards. “When public figures embrace such extreme aesthetics, it sends a mixed message about body positivity and health,” said Dr. Helen Marson, a specialist in body image issues.
Despite the controversy, Kardashian continues to be a prominent figure in the fashion industry, often using the Met Gala to make audacious statements. Her history at the Gala demonstrates her readiness to challenge fashion and beauty standards.
The ongoing debate centers on the balance between fashion as an artistic expression and its role in promoting healthy and achievable beauty standards. Kardashian’s latest appearance at the Met Gala indicates that this conversation is far from a conclusion.
