The stunning black silk chiffon dress that Kaia Gerber wore to the 2024 Academy Museum Gala has a fascinating history, having first graced the runway over four years prior to Gerber’s birth. This exquisite piece was modeled by none other than Jodie Kidd, bringing forth a timeless fusion of elegance and nostalgia. The dress features chic cap sleeves and an empire waist, accentuated by a delicate, sheer over-layer adorned with intricate black beaded floral motifs, along with fringes that gracefully dangle from the sleeves.
Kaia Gerber’s choice of this vintage Alexander McQueen dress is not just about wearing a beautiful piece of fashion; it reflects her deep admiration for the late designer and his legacy. She specifically chose to wear this dress in light of Sarah Burton, who is now the creative director at Givenchy, thus creating a delightful juxtaposition between the past and present. Gerber acknowledged the importance of this collaborative relationship, stating, “I’ve had a very long and collaborative relationship with Sarah Burton. When I heard she was going to be the new creative director of Givenchy, I thought working with her on this would be a wonderful way to celebrate Lee and Sarah’s time at Givenchy in the late ’90s.”
The iconic dress has continued to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. A notable example of this influence is the sheer interpretation of the My Fair Lady dress that Kendall Jenner wore during the 2021 Met Gala, designed by then-creative director Matthew M Williams at Givenchy. In her vintage Alexander McQueen dress, Kaia Gerber undoubtedly captured the essence of elegance and history, making her a standout presence at the event, reminiscent of the feeling evoked in the beloved musical *My Fair Lady*. One can almost hear the tune of “I Could Have Danced All Night” playing in the background, highlighting the timeless charm of both the dress and the occasion.