Although the MET Gala has already passed, it’s never too early or too late to start predicting future themes. Often paying homage to an influential figure or period, the MET Gala theme is a clear indication of where mainstream fashion is looking. We’ve seen themes such as Haute Couture, Christian Dior, and Cubism and Fashion. These themes highlighted fashion history and potential, while simultaneously providing space to celebrate modern designers. With that in mind, here are some of my favorite ideas for future MET Gala themes.

✰ Vivienne Westwood
Honoring the legendary designer and punk icon, Westwood would make a perfect MET Gala theme. While controversial, she was highly political in her fashion and made undeniably bold statements throughout her career. Her legacy of unapologetic brazenness has the potential to translate well onto the MET Gala Carpet.

✰ Futurism
Fashion manages to find the perfect balance between being inspired by the past and looking to the future. With free reign to interpret international futurism, designers can touch on anything from our new alien friends to the environmental crises, while celebrating the beauty of technology. In 2016 we were given Manus x Machina, and a futurism theme would allow us to expand upon the groundwork laid seven years ago.

✰ Virgil Abloh
This theme would see far more looks like Kylie Jenners during Gilded Glamour honoring Virgil Abloh. With the potential to celebrate streetwear and the late designer himself, the MET would see a temporary modern makeover. Beginning as an architecture student, Abloh took inspiration from the buildings around him. Knowing this, I’d expect designs for this theme to be highly architectural, and incorporate elements and materials typically seen in the engineering field.

✰ Andre Leon Talley
Though not a designer, the legendary fashion figure known for his tall stature and impressive kaftans, Talley was a certified visionary. Designers would be able to take inspiration from the collection he left behind, and his appreciation of boisterous colors. His connections with Andy Warhol, Diana Vreeland, and designers like Jason Wu make his likeness a versatile theme, with widespread capabilities.

✰ Iconic Films
Old Hollywood is seeing a revival. While we see celebrities paying homage to old Hollywood icons every year, I personally wouldn’t be opposed to true dedication to iconic films. That being said, I fear this theme may see the continued disrespect of Marilyn Monroe’s memory. Since her death we’ve struggled to adequately remember her in film and literature, preying on her stage reputation. I’d prefer we focus more on women like Dorothy Dandridge, Elizabeth Taylor, Mae West, and Lena Horne. We can celebrate older classics alongside new ones, doing justice to films ahead of their time. We can see inspiration drawn from films like “Some Like It Hot”, “Jennifers Body”, “Casablanca” and “The Color Purple”. We can explore the history of fashion in film in a manner that is more in-depth than our 2022 theme. Taking that into account, this theme would have to wait a few years before being entered into the rotation in order to avoid too much overlap with its 2022 predecessor.

✰ Diana Vreeland
The legend herself, Vreeland lived and breathed art. Immersed in fashion and all things interesting, Vreeland’s large imagination and interest in vast topics would make for a fascinating theme. With a full life and hundreds of genius magazine spreads, Vreeland showcased her vision in ways perfectly translatable. As a consultant at the costume institute, it’s only fitting that the MET Gala honors her life and work. Credited for reviving the field of costume, Vreeland’s vivacious presence makes for a unique source of inspiration.