Priyanka Chopra was one of the first arrivals to the MET Gala, and the “Inspector Gadget” jokes came fast and furious. I get it, she’s wearing a trench coat. I will tell you why I’m more into this than 95% of the gowns I saw.
Adherence to theme: It’s unisex. It’s not pretty in the traditional sense. It’s functional but it’s also interesting and detailed (like black buttons and pockets). I loved the collar. I like the way it sort of was askew but not traditionally off the shoulder. This is using one of the most fundamental, classic pieces to ever exist in fashion in an exciting, adventurous, imaginative way.
And the shoe choice is strong. The shoe here is crucial because this is where so many looks fall apart in the quest to be feminine and pretty. I’m sure she looked at a strappy heel. Instead, Priyanka wore a solid black boot, which I loved.
I also liked her hair and makeup: a proper top knot with a deep lip (in contrast to a lot of the highlighting we saw). And no diamond earrings from Lorraine Schwartz. Instead she went with interesting silver earrings.
Here is where I waver: the train. I just didn’t think it was necessary. I know, particularly because of Rihanna, people want that train moment on the stairs. Designers want it. On the one hand, I think the look would have been stronger, it would have been more “ya I’m wearing a f-cking trench coat” badass without the train. But on the other hand, if you can’t wear a train to the MET Gala, where the hell can you wear one? I just think the look was so strong it could have stopped at her ankles.
Overall, this is a win for Priyanka and Ralph Lauren.
