"it merges traditional craftsmanship with avant-garde aesthetics."
Alia Bhatt looked sensational at the 2024 Met Gala, wearing a custom mint-green saree by Sabyasachi and embodying the event’s The Garden of Time theme.
The dress code takes inspiration from a short story of the same title written by JG Ballard in 1962 which deals with the theme of fleeting beauty.
Alia’s saree featured handcrafted embroidery and silk floss, glass beading and semi-precious gemstones, using the fantastical life led by Count Axel and his wife from Ballard’s story as the inspiration.
Ahead of her appearance at the glamorous event in New York, she said:
“The saree’s design, with its translucent, glass-like appearance is not just a nod to the ethereal quality of the garden in Ballard’s story but also a tribute to the exquisite, enduring craft of saree-making.
“What drew me to this look was the sheer audacity of it – how it merges traditional craftsmanship with avant-garde aesthetics.
“Sabyasachi, known for his dedication to bringing old-world charm and modern sophistication together, seemed like the perfect choice to encapsulate the theme of this year’s Met Gala.”
The saree is stunning but the standout feature is the dramatic 23-foot train.
Alia revealed that the saree was handcrafted by a team of 163 artisans, including craftsmen, dyers and embroiderers.
It took around 1,965 hours to create.
Sabyasachi took inspiration from India’s heritage and used emeralds, Basra pearls, tourmalines and multi-coloured sapphires to add more flair to Alia’s outfit.
To add to the look, Alia’s hair featured an intricate headpiece with ropes of gemstones, and shoulder-grazing earrings featuring tourmalines and diamonds, from Sabyasachi Accessories.
This is the second time a Sabyasachi creation has been seen at the Met Gala after Natasha Poonawalla wore a saree by the famous designer in 2022.
He said: “I am honoured to create the signature garment of India, a saree, handcrafted from techniques handed down over generations and mastered during a lifetime of effort for Alia Bhatt.
“It represents the history and pride of Indian craftsmanship that I have dedicated my career to promoting, protecting and preserving.”
For her Met Gala debut in 2023, Alia Bhatt wore a Prabal Gurung gown.
Fans gushed over Alia’s elegant look, with one writing:
“The saree is ending every Met Gala look out there. Oh Alia Bhatt, you’re so stunning.”
Another praised Alia while also mocking other stars at the event.
“A Desi woman gonna eat up all the goras at their own event.”
A comment read: “Alia Bhatt at the Met Gala 2024 in a saree representing her culture globally and the paps screaming her name.”
Alia’s mother Soni Razdan credited Sabyasachi:
“Sabyasachi, you’re an absolute genius.
“Don’t know how you created this work of art in the time you had.
“It’s simply stunning but even that is an understatement. Truly a masterpiece and has transformed Alia Bhatt into a timeless princess.”
See the amazing pictures of Alia Bhatt in our special gallery:
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