(Reuters) — East met West on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on Tuesday (May 5, PHT).
The costume institute debuted its newest exhibit, “China Through the Looking Glass.”
The exhibition shows the influence of Chinese art, imagery and culture, from Imperial China to the present day, on Western fashion and design.
Considered the biggest night in fashion, ten of China’s top film stars including Li Bingbing and Gong Li rubbed elbows with some of the West’s biggest celebs including Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, and Kim Kardashian West.
Liu Wen, who is considered China’s first supermodel, was proud her culture is the subject of this year’s exhibit and said the night is more than about celebrating.
“I don’t think this is a party, this is all about art. And I’ve been here almost like six times so every time is different for me because each year they are doing different things. And then this year there is a special focus on Chinese so I feel very special, so I just enjoy it.”
Met gala regular Madonna shared a few insider details on what’s like inside: “You sit at tables and a lot of famous people are there and you wait a really long time for your food.”
Cher hit the red carpet in and with designer Marc Jacobs.
“He (Marc Jacobs) asked me to and I haven’t been here in years. And I was here for the first one,” explained the singer.
Singer Rihanna, who is the night’s entertainment, reigned over the Metropolitan steps in a dress designed by Chinese designer Guo Pei.
Model Naomi Campbell considered the night a chance for fun and reconnecting.
“I want to see Rihanna’s performance, I can’t wait. And just seeing everybody decked out. Just reuniting with people I haven’t seen in awhile,” said Campbell.
Actress Jessica Chastain said she was excited to see the exhibit.
“It’s wonderful being here, the last time I think I was here was 2012, so a lot has happened in my life and it’s great to revisit the Met Ball.”
With 150 dresses, gowns, costumes and accessories from 40 designers on display, “China Through the Looking Glass,” which runs from May 7 to Aug. 16, is one of the biggest exhibitions undertaken by the museum.
