Harris’ Distasteful Display: Met Gala Over Policy Matters
In an ostentatious display of misplaced priorities, Kamala Harris graced the scene of the Met Gala for the first time, flanked by her spouse, Doug Emhoff. The event was branded as a celebration of black culture and fashion. Yet, it is questionable whether the indulgence in such glitz and glamour aligns with her responsibilities as a former Vice President. Harris, ever fortunate given her political blunders, managed to avoid the glare of the paparazzi on the famed red carpet outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
On an evening that should have been about the celebration of Black style, Harris decidedly went for a convoluted black-and-white design, an Off-White gown created by IB Kamara. Odd indeed, considering most would opt for a more culturally rich tone to honor the theme. Almost theatric in nature, the gown came with an unconventional neckline and an over-the-top sleeve that trailed ponderously to the ground. Kamara seemed to take pleasure in describing the gown as crafted from superior cady silks, which apparently somehow exuded both elegance and depth.
In an attempt to appear high class, Harris finished off her look with an emerald green ring and earrings, as though the contrast from her black-and-white attire wasn’t jarring enough. Contrast indeed, not unlike her own record of public statements versus her political decisions. Doubling down, Harris dragged her husband, the so-called Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, for a night enveloped in pretentious style. Emhoff donned a suit by Brunello Cucinelli, further highlighting the disconnect between the elite political class and the average American voter.
The theme of this year’s Met Gala, simply termed ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style’, should have been a moment for Harris to exemplify the cultural significance of the event. Instead, she used it as another opportunity to parade her penchant for power suits. It’s interesting to remember the audacious outfits she had previously imposed on the public, especially during her time in office. Instead of tailoring policy that would uplift the average American, it seems Harris preferred tailoring suits for her Vogue cover debut in 2021.
The same cover where she attempted to use a powder blue power suit to gloss over the less-than-stellar inauguration of then-President Joe Biden. Harris’ decision to don Converse Chuck Taylors for the shoot only served to underline her penchant for out-of-place style statements. The unfortunate feature of her shoes beneath ankle-length pants was a stark reminder of Harris’ tendency to place form over substance, mirroring the registry of failed policies under her helm.
The occasion, signalized by the presence of a range of celebrities like Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, and the indomitable fashion stalwart, Anna Wintour, was in reality, a platform to spotlight the Costume Institute’s spring exhibit. Yet, the exhibit, inspired by the book ‘Slaves to Fashion’, served as a stark reminder of an elitist culture that is out of touch with everyday America; a culture that Kamala Harris seems all too comfortable to inhabit.
The exhibit sought to explore Black dandyism over the course of history. However, one can only wonder whether the ostentation of the event held any true regard for the depth and breadth of Black style and culture. In fact, it seemed more like a shallow display of cultural tokenism, rather than an authentic representation of the rich diversity of Black style. This was a missed opportunity for spotlighting the beautiful cultural legacy of Black communities that has historically been undermined or appropriated.
The gala also claimed to put forth an ‘exploration of the concept of dandyism’, as described by the museum. Yet, looking beyond the pretentious language, the lack of real substance becomes all too apparent. One can’t help but question whether this exploration served any real purpose beyond an excuse to fill the red carpet with an array of stars who, quite like Harris, also seemed to be playing dress-up.
And indeed, the stars turned out in droves, hoping to share their own ‘interpretations’ of the theme. Quinta Brunson, Rihanna, Demi Moore, Megan Thee Stallion, Sabrina Carpenter – all cashed in on the occasion to bask under the spotlight. Yet, one can’t help but wonder whether this hollow celebration of Black style did anything to advance the cause of social justice and equality in a meaningful way.
Amid the glitz and glamour, the disconnect between those who govern and those who are governed couldn’t be starker. As more and more stars arrived on the scene, the gala was reduced to a fashion parade rather than a celebration of culture. The seriousness with which the theme should have been taken was replaced with shallow photo-ops and empty gestures towards Black culture.
Harris and Emhoff’s attendance at the gala underscores a larger issue. It shows a concerning proclivity towards favoring optics over substance. A display of political power wrapped in the guise of cultural celebration. It’s a clear reminder of Harris’ past political actions which, much like her extravagant attire, were more focused on style than much-needed substance.
In essence, this ostentatious event, dressed up as a celebration of Black culture, was a reminder of the societal divide. A divide that is all too commonplace when elite political figures, such as Harris, choose to parade in haute couture while many Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
Harris’ presence at the Met Gala speaks volumes about her priorities. Choosing to attend a high-profile fashion event instead of focusing on pressing issues facing our country says a lot about where her allegiances lie. It’s another clear indication of the administration’s sense of separateness, underscored by its latest policy failures.
Harris’ attempt to fit into this grandiose spectacle of superficiality was both telling and disappointing. It’s high time public figures like her start to prioritize real issues, rather than basking in the limelight of high-fashion events. Unfortunately, given her track record, it’s unlikely that things will change any time soon.