Per the frenzied discussion leading up to Fashion Prom a.k.a. the Met Gala, this year’s theme of “camp” — and thereby the celebrity dress code — proved difficult to define. After all, Susan Sontag, the author of the 1964 essay Notes on “Camp,” narrowed her definition of the word down to just, oh, a tight 58 points.
But just looking to observations 8 (“Camp is a vision of the world in terms of style — but a particular kind of style.”), 24 (“it’s too much, it’s too fantastic”) and 25 (“Camp is a woman walking around in a dress made of three million feathers.), the sartorial interpretation of the term is just as open as it is fabulous. Well, fashion critics and red carpet stans were not disappointed as the 2019 Met Gala red carpet unfolded. Because, yes, the stars all brought their A game.
Even more exciting: The themes of the Spring 2020 Galia Lahav House of Couture and Gala bridal collections mesh right in with the spirit of this year’s campy Met Gala festivities: the drama and stage-inspired “Make a Scene” and the fantastical, whimsical Alice in Wonderland, respectively. So why not translate the fabulous, gorgeous and campy enthusiasm into your big day?
Of course, we understand that it is your wedding and not the actual Met Gala. So you probably won’t wear, oh, a chandelier to say your vows (although, we’re sure your planner has your exact lighting prepared, down to the flicker of a candle) and, obviously, you want all the photos, please. So here are 11 reasons to go camp, and how to do it, as presented by your favorite red carpet stars.
Well, if this wasn’t just meant to be. The appropriately-named “Gaga,” of course, channels the superstar’s show-stopping and jaw-dropping performance art with the double-corset and voluminous 3D lace paneled skirting. But the gown also mirrors the functionality of the Oscar-nominee’s multi-layered look with a removable, matching pink tulle veil. Think about recruiting a few members of the bridal parties to carry umbrellas and double as backup dancers to accompany your grand entrance into the reception.
A soft, icy pink sheen, iridescent sparkles, cascading ruffles and 3D florals distill the dream-like and fairy world essence of this best-dressed favorite’s celestial look. Perhaps try for a floral crown instead of a veil and have some fun with your hair color, too (they do make temporary dyes, so think about it).
Add a modern twist to a traditional beaded lace dress, with a power-shouldered bolero, which is kind of like your bridal version of a fluttering superhero cape. (P.S. It’s removable, for quick changes, depending on your mood or desired persona at any given moment.)
Be an absolute, walking vision with blooming 3D florals fluttering on an ethereal gown. The delicate off-the-shoulder silhouette is a more subtle, slinkier alternative to the tennis icon’s sculptural look — and maybe consider changing into sporty, dance-floor friendly sneakers for the after-party.
Revisit the decadent and debauched jazz halls and speakeasies of the Roaring ‘20s — well, sartorially speaking, of course — with deco-detailing, flapper fringe and intricate beading. But, add a sultry, millennial update with sneaky cut-outs and peekaboo paneling. Enhance the extravagance of the dress with statement-making lips and nails, too.
Try a feminine, whimsical and campy take on exquisite tailoring with layers upon layers of delicately pleated ruffles, a slight puff at the shoulder, brilliant sequins and all topped off with an oversize bow at the neck.
Enjoy your own magical, fairy tale wedding moment with intricate corsetry, romantic puff sleeves, and fantastical ombre hues. Maybe you can try wiring enchanted lights into the gown — just kidding, do not attempt at home — and definitely don’t forget your heel on the wedding aisle, like Zendaya did on the Met Gala pink carpet. (And your fairy godmother won’t impose a curfew, either, so keep the party going all night long.)
You know what’s totally camp? Forgoing the expected wedding gown for a cool girl jumpsuit, instead. But make it interesting with edgy asymmetrical lines, an abundance of brilliant sparkle and a geometric, waist-defining belt
Lily Collins was actually wearing a wedding-inspired look to the Met Gala, so her voluminous high-low dress clearly belongs on this inspo list. But put your own twist on her twist on a mod celebrity bridal look with bubble skirting, sheer puff sleeves and a high neckline. Plus, don’t be afraid to play around with accents and accessories, like a headband and a smattering of pretty little hair clips.
Obviously, you’re the star of your wedding celebration. Shine even brighter with dazzling silver embroidery, shimmering, hand-embroidered tulle on long-illusion sleeves and a figure-hugging silhouette. Hot, hot, hot.
Serve up some sexy, sizzling, straight fire sultriness to your wedding day, Jenner-style. All you need are an mega-high leg-slit, iridescent illusion paneling, ultra-luxe lace appliques, figure-celebrating silhouette and loads of attitude
