5 Sustainable Moments at the Met Gala, from Vintage Gowns to a Vegan Menu

Last night, the Met Gala took place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The yearly event is known for the jaw-dropping fashion and big-name guests—but this year, its sustainable moments stole the spotlight, too.

In addition to stars like Billie Eilish showing off sustainable styles, the event made some major changes to its menu and decor that also had the planet in mind. (Like a fully vegan menu!) Here are some moments you won't want to miss.

5 Sustainable Moments from the Met Gala

1. Billie Eilish Turned Oscar de la Renta Fur-Free

Even though Oscar de la Renta stopped making pieces out of animal fur a long time ago, it still continues to sell fur pieces in its stores. Until last night, that is. According to the New York Times, Billie Eilish's team informed Fernando Garcia, one of the co-creative directors, that the pop sensation doesn't work with brands that use fur in any capacity.

It looks like the message was received because Eilish embodied old Hollywood glamour with an Oscar de la Renta peach tulle princess dress that had a 15-foot train. In exchange for Eilish wearing the dress, the brand agreed to stop selling fur forever.

2. The Menu Was 100% Vegan

At this year's Met Gala festivities, the fashion wasn't the only thing making a sustainable statement. Culinary wiz and Bon Appetit advisor Marcus Samuelsson gave 10 New York chefs a big challenge: create a delicious, plant-based menu that fits within this year's theme of "In America: A Lexicon of Fashion."

To say they delivered is an understatement. “We thought it was important to really talk about what’s present, what’s happening—how food is changing in America,” Samuelsson told Bon Appétit. This menu—which featured everything from vegan canapés, entrées, and desserts—also helped shine light on the similar shift happening in fashion. As more and more brands ditch fur, leather, and other animal products, it seems only fitting that the menu does, too.

3. Nia Dennis Stunned in Stella McCartney

Gymnast Nia Dennis made a pretty bold statement with a dazzling Adidas by Stella McCartney blue bodysuit, topped with a net throw. The Adidas by Stella McCartney line is made from post-industrial and post-consumer waste like plastic bottles. But her fashion choice wasn't the only thing being talked about.

She also completed an incredible routine down the Met Gala stairs and onto the red carpet, complete with backflips, cartwheels, and splits.

Sustainable pieces from the Adidas by Stella McCartney line also made several other appearances throughout the Met Gala, including Ella Emhoff's head-to-toe look.

4. Addison Rae Rocked a Vintage Tom Ford Gucci Gown

When you think fashion, your mind probably doesn't go back to the 2002 Grammys, but the power of "repurpose" was out on the Met Gala red carpet—especially with TikTok sensation Addison Rae's Gucci ensemble.

The piece—a vintage 2003 red corseted gown by Tom Ford for Gucci—was inspired by Britney Spears' crimson gown from the 2002 Grammys. Instead of wearing something new like other stars, she rocked a dress that didn't require any additional resources.

5. The Centerpiece Was Made of Recycled Materials

It was exciting to learn that the fashion—and even the menu—at the Met Gala leaned into sustainability. But learning that even the decor was planet-friendly is yet another thing to celebrate.

In the past, the Met Gala has donned giant, ornate structures—such as giant flamingos for Camp. But this year's offering is something more natural. The stunning Grand Oak centerpiece—a giant oak tree made of recycled materials, surrounded by a field of wheatgrass—was designed by floral designer Raúl Àvila.