Inspired by this year’s Costume Institute exhibition, Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between, the H&M design team created one-of-a-kind custom looks that explored many of Kawakubo’s recurring themes for a few lucky celebs. Worn by Nicki Minaj, Future, Ashley Graham, Joe Jonas, Jourdan Dunn, Sasha Lane and Stella Maxwell, the stars rocked these innovative looks at the 2017 Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Benefit.

 The custom-designed looks included deconstruction, subverted tradition and asymmetry, mixed with the charm of bows, flowers and polka dots. Attending the Costume Institute Benefit for the third year in a row, H&M was particularly pleased with this year’s theme having collaborated with Comme des Garçons for its 2008 H&M designer collection.

Joe Jonas, Sasha Lane, Stella Maxwell, Jourdan Dunn, Ashley Graham, Future

“It has been our honour at H&M to create these looks inspired by Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons, one of fashion’s most important and influential designers. Each H&M look has been entirely custom-made, with both Kawakubo’s creative world and the style of our guests in mind,” said Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Head of Design and Creative Director.

Each star spoke volumes of their custom-made design, and H&M managed to get a few words out of Model Ashley Graham during the affair. Ashley wore a corset dress influenced by Kawakubo’s interest in revealing the inner workings of garments. An off-white corset was subtly deconstructed, while a long red silk skirt was boned and fastened by hook-and-eyes, both decorated with exuberant ruffles of dark red silk organza.

Ashley Graham, Stella Maxwell, Jourdan Dunn

 “It’s been such a wonderful experience with H&M for my first Met Gala. I have loved collaborating with them every step of the way and I can’t wait to show off my dress. It’s everything I could have ever dreamed of!” said Ashley Graham.

The stunning model proceeded to discuss her look and the collection at the Gala. Read on to find out what she thought!

Tell us about your look for the Met!

The dress has a form fitting silhouette with an off-white corset and pleated organza appliques that were hand placed to create a cool and effortlessly chic look. I worked with my stylist to sketch my ideal dress, and H&M took it to the next level.

 What do you like most about it?

I love that it really hugs my body and shows off my shape, while paying homage to Rei Kawakubo’s work.

How does it reflect your personal style?

It’s feminine, sophisticated and effortless, but also very thoughtful and creative.

What makes the Met gala so special?

This is an event where designers can really showcase their work as art. Every look is a surprise and unexpected.

How do you find this year’s theme?

Rei Kawakubo has created one of the most famous fashion houses of all time. It’s exciting that she’s the first living designer to be the focus of the Met Gala since Yves Saint Laurent in 1983.

What’s your best style advice for the perfect red carpet look?

Do not forget to wear your confidence: it’s your best accessory.

Ashley Graham, Stella Maxwell

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