Lagerfeld's cat steals Met Gala spotlight

Fashion's biggest night delivered unexpected style inspiration on the first Monday of the month when A-list celebrities gathered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for the annual Met Gala. This year's theme—a tribute to the late designer Karl Lagerfeld—took an unusual turn as attendees began paying homage not just to the fashion icon himself, but to his beloved Birman cat, Choupette.

The event, hosted by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and this year's co-hosts including Penélope Cruz and Olympic legend Roger Federer, brought together approximately 600 guests for fashion's most exclusive night. The Costume Institute's exhibition "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty" set the theme, with each attendee expected to create or wear a bespoke outfit honouring the designer's six-decade influence across Chanel, Fendi, Chloé and Balmain.

As the evening unfolded and red-carpet images began circulating online, a feline narrative emerged. Choupette, Lagerfeld's cherished cat, had received an invitation to the gala itself—a tongue-in-cheek nod to the designer's well-documented adoration of his pet. The cat, however, politely declined to make an appearance, preferring to remain at home where she could stay cozy, according to messaging that quickly circulated through fashion circles.

Despite her absence, Choupette became the breakout star of the evening. Actor Jared Leto arrived wearing a full-body cat costume that bore a striking resemblance to the designer's pet, immediately trending across social media. The elaborate tribute sparked widespread online conversation, with fashion enthusiasts and casual observers alike delighting in the unexpected humour.

Rapper and singer Doja Cat—a name that took on new meaning in the evening's context—also delivered a feline-inspired look, complete with prosthetics and cat ears that transformed her face. Her interpretation, combined with Leto's extravagant suit, ensured that Lagerfeld's relationship with Choupette became as much a talking point as his revolutionary design work.

The focus on Choupette reflected something deeper about Lagerfeld's public persona. The German designer, who died in 2019, was as famous for his distinctive sunglasses and white ponytail as he was for his creative output. His documented devotion to his cat—whom he considered a muse and frequently referenced in interviews—had long fascinated the fashion world and celebrity culture.

The 2023 Met Gala, which raises funds for the Costume Institute, maintained its reputation as the year's most exclusive fashion event. Tickets reached up to $75,000, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1948 when the benefit first launched with tickets priced at just $50. The guest list remains tightly guarded, with each invitation personally approved by Wintour.

As fashion commentary continued to circulate through the week, the Lagerfeld gala had achieved what the event does best: sparked global conversation about fashion and celebrity. The unexpected cat tributes ensured that this year's celebration of a legendary designer would be remembered as much for its whimsical moments as its high fashion.