What was the title of the 2024 Met Gala exhibition exploring historic garments as “sleeping beauties”?

The 2024 Met Gala exhibition exploring historic garments as “sleeping beauties” was titled Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.

The exhibition focused on approximately 250 garments from the Costume Institute’s collection, including pieces that are too fragile to be worn or displayed conventionally. New technology and sensory presentation methods were used to help visitors experience details such as movement, sound, smell, and tactile qualities without physically handling the objects.

The title treated historically important garments as dormant objects that could be “reawakened” through digital tools and imaginative installation. It did not mean that the garments were intended for everyday wear again.

The exhibition’s conservation emphasis is an important distinction from many fashion shows. Its central concern was how museums can make delicate clothing engaging while protecting it for future study.