What are the strict Met Gala rules all celebrities must follow, or risk being banned? Here's the full list

Time of India

04-05-2025

As the first Monday of May nears, the fashion world's gaze turns to the Met Gala, the most exclusive night on the global style calendar. Held annually at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the gala is more than just a star-studded fundraiser.
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Behind the red carpet glamour lies a strict set of
Met Gala rules
that every celebrity and attendee must follow or risk being permanently banned.
From a rigid guest list to food restrictions, here is a detailed look at the code of conduct that defines fashion's biggest night, as per a report by NBC.
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Entry By Invitation Only
The Met Gala is famously selective. Admission is strictly by invitation, and each guest must be personally approved by Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour. While luxury brands often purchase entire tables for upward of $300,000, they cannot fill those seats without clearance from Wintour.
For individuals, the price of attendance in 2024 has reportedly climbed to $75,000 per ticket.
Live Events
Guests who fail to follow proper protocol or have previously breached rules are known to be blacklisted.
No Phones, No Social Media
One of the most crucial Met Gala rules is the absolute ban on mobile phones inside the venue.
Attendees are prohibited from taking photographs or posting on social media once they enter the museum.
This measure, instituted by Wintour and the Met board, is meant to preserve the exclusivity and mystery of the event.
Nonetheless, over the years, a few celebrities have managed to capture clandestine images, especially in the bathroom areas. Such infractions are frowned upon and have prompted increased vigilance in recent editions.
Strict Dress Code
Each year's Met Gala theme comes with an explicit dress code. This year's theme, 'The Garden of Time', ties into the museum's 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion' exhibition.
The theme emphasizes ephemeral beauty and garments so fragile they can no longer be worn.
Guests are expected to interpret this creatively while aligning their ensemble with the spirit of the theme.
Deviating from the assigned dress concept, or underdressing, is considered a serious breach of decorum.
Smoking Prohibited Indoors
Though previously overlooked, smoking is now strictly banned inside the venue. This rule came into force after guests were found lighting up in the museum's restrooms, triggering criticism from patrons and sponsors. The ban aligns with New York City's Smoke-Free Air Act and applies universally — celebrities included.
No Garlic, Onions or Chives
In a lesser-known rule, certain foods are deliberately excluded from the menu. According to Wintour, onions, garlic and chives are banned from dishes served at the Met Gala. The reasoning is practical — to avoid any unpleasant odors during close-up interactions and red carpet interviews.
Minimum Age Requirement
Another key regulation is the age restriction. All attendees must be 18 years or older unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. This guideline, confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter, ensures that the event maintains its adult-oriented, sophisticated tone.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the Met Gala?
It's worth noting that the Met Gala isn't just about fashion—it plays a vital fundraising role for the museum's Costume Institute. In fact, last year's event brought in nearly $26 million (€25 million), marking a record for the department, which operates on self-generated funding.
What's the Met Gala theme in 2025?
The 2025 spring exhibition is called
"Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,"
with the official dress code set as
"Tailored for You."