Elle Fanning's Met Gala Look: A Subtle Nod to Maleficent's Aurora
The Met Gala, renowned as fashion's biggest night, always promises a spectacle of interpretive artistry and sartorial splendor. For its 2024 iteration, the theme, "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion," sparked a flurry of immediate, almost instinctive, reactions. Many envisioned classic Disney princesses, enchanted forests, and fairytale narratives brought to life on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While the theme's true intention delved into the delicate, historical garments too fragile for traditional display, one star embraced the popular interpretation with an elegance and subtlety that was pure genius: Elle Fanning.
As the actress who literally embodied Princess Aurora in Disney's live-action epic Maleficent (2014) and its sequel, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019), it's hardly surprising that Fanning's mind drifted to her iconic role when "Sleeping Beauties" was announced. Her choice to lean into this connection, rather than the academic nuance of the theme, wasn't just understandable – it was a masterclass in thematic dressing, creating an unforgettable moment that beautifully merged her screen persona with high fashion. The enduring connection between Elle Fanning Maleficent and her portrayal of Aurora made her Met Gala appearance resonate deeply with fans and fashion critics alike.
Decoding the "Sleeping Beauties" Theme: Fanning's Inspired Interpretation
When the Metropolitan Museum of Art revealed "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" as the theme for its 2024 exhibit and gala, the initial public response often conjured images of storybook princesses. It was a natural leap, given the widespread cultural impact of tales like Sleeping Beauty. However, curators clarified that the exhibit focused on exquisitely preserved antique gowns, so delicate they were destined for a life of "leisurely flat display," akin to slumbering beauties themselves, rather than being worn or even displayed on mannequins. These garments, often centuries old, represented fashion 'asleep' awaiting a modern 'reawakening' through technology and careful preservation.
Yet, for an actress like Elle Fanning, who has spent significant time inhabiting the role of Princess Aurora – arguably the most famous 'Sleeping Beauty' in modern folklore – the initial, whimsical interpretation held a powerful personal resonance. Fanning's decision to embrace the fairytale aspect wasn't an oversight of the theme's deeper meaning; it was a deliberate, charming nod to her own history and the public's immediate association. It showcased a playful intelligence, acknowledging the shared cultural memory while elevating it with a sophisticated, contemporary design.
Her look became a commentary on how narratives, even fashion narratives, are interpreted and reinterpreted through personal lenses. For Fanning, the call of Aurora was simply too strong to ignore, and the result proved to be one of the night's most cohesive and heartfelt interpretations, solidifying the indelible link between Elle Fanning Maleficent and her iconic character.
The Balmain Masterpiece: An Icy Vision of Aurora
Stepping onto the Met Gala carpet, Elle Fanning was a breathtaking vision, not of a traditional princess, but of an ethereal, almost otherworldly Aurora. Her custom Balmain gown, designed by Olivier Rousteing, was a departure from typical fairytale ballgowns. Instead of vibrant hues or voluminous skirts, Fanning presented an "ice sculpture" aesthetic, as aptly described, contrasting beautifully with other sculptural looks of the evening. The dress was crafted from a clear, almost cellophane-like fabric, meticulously sculpted around her form to create a captivating gathered, striped effect. This translucent material gave the gown an ephemeral quality, making Fanning appear as if she were emerging from a crystalline dream.
The design featured a fitted bodice that subtly transitioned into a straight skirt, punctuated by a daring high slit that added a modern edge to the classic silhouette. True to princess form, an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline was at play, directly mimicking the iconic silhouette of Princess Aurora’s famed animation and live-action dresses. This detail, though subtle, was a clear and intentional homage to her character.
However, the undisputed highlight, and the element that truly encapsulated the fairytale magic, were the two delicate crystal birds perched on her shoulders, seemingly lifting the dress with their delicate wings. These weren't mere embellishments; they were a potent symbol. In the original Sleeping Beauty story, birds are Aurora’s constant companions, helping her with chores, singing to her, and even assisting in sewing her forest dress. The crystal birds transformed Fanning's gown from merely beautiful to exquisitely narrative, a whimsical and artistic acknowledgment of her deep connection to Aurora without resorting to overt costumery. For a deeper dive into this magnificent creation, explore Crystal Birds & Balmain: Elle Fanning's Maleficent Met Gala Style.
This was no obvious Disney princess play. There were no swathes of pink, baby blue, or sea foam green. There was no voluminous skirt or an overt "Sleeping Beauty" scream. Instead, it was an understated, sophisticated interpretation – a quiet whisper of a fairytale rather than a shout. This nuanced approach allowed the dress to stand as a piece of high fashion art while still paying profound respect to the character that has become synonymous with Elle Fanning Maleficent.
Beyond the Gown: Fanning's Enduring Connection to Aurora
Elle Fanning's decision to embody Aurora at the Met Gala was not an isolated moment of thematic dressing; it was the latest chapter in her ongoing, delightful fashion dialogue with the character. Ahead of the evening, Fanning playfully hinted at her inspiration, posting evocative images of Aurora – both the classic animated version and stills from her own portrayal in Maleficent – on social media. This pre-gala excitement underscored her genuine affection for the role and her enjoyment in crafting fashion moments around it.
This dedication extends back years. During the press tour for Maleficent: Mistress of Evil in 2019, Fanning truly embraced the dark fairytale narrative through her sartorial choices. Memorable among these was a stunning princess-like Gucci gown she wore to a premiere, adorned with intricate crystal "blood drops" that appeared to drip from her finger – a daring and thematic nod to the story's darker elements and Aurora's iconic prick. These instances demonstrate a unique artistic commitment; Fanning doesn't just play a role, she lives and breathes its essence, allowing it to influence her public persona and red-carpet appearances.
Beyond the garments themselves, Fanning completed her Met Gala ensemble with a relaxed, cropped hairstyle that exuded modern elegance, a departure from more elaborate updos often associated with princess aesthetics. She adorned herself with exquisite Chopard jewelry, adding a touch of timeless glamour. On her arm was her boyfriend, Gus Wenner, a comforting presence amidst the night's whirlwind. Notably absent, though certainly in the minds of many, was Angelina Jolie, the formidable Maleficent to Fanning’s Aurora, who has historically not attended the Met Gala.
Fanning herself, as described by sources like PORTER, is known for being "more animated in person than she is in her films," a "very high-energy person" who often "chooses more fun to play people who aren’t like yourself." This vivacious personality, coupled with her ethereal on-screen presence, creates a captivating duality. Her continued connection to Aurora, years after filming, showcases not only her talent but also a personal joy in blending the worlds of high fashion and beloved fairytales. To understand more about how she brings characters to life both on and off-screen, check out Elle Fanning: Bringing Aurora to Life On & Off the Screen.
The Legacy of Elle Fanning and Maleficent: A Fairytale Fashion Icon
Elle Fanning's 2024 Met Gala appearance was more than just a beautiful dress; it was a testament to her unique position in Hollywood and the fashion world. By interpreting the "Sleeping Beauties" theme through the lens of her iconic character, Princess Aurora from the Maleficent films, she crafted a moment that was both deeply personal and universally enchanting. Her custom Balmain gown, with its icy translucence and whimsical crystal birds, showcased a refined understanding of thematic dressing, proving that the most impactful interpretations often lie in subtlety and symbolic nuance rather than literal translation.
The enduring connection between Elle Fanning Maleficent and her portrayal of Aurora has allowed her to forge a distinctive fashion identity. She has consistently demonstrated an ability to weave elements of her cinematic roles into her red-carpet style, elevating press tours and galas into extensions of her artistic expression. This Met Gala look, five years after her last turn as Aurora, served as a beautiful full circle moment, reminding us of her captivating presence and her skillful ability to blend fantasy with high fashion.
In a world often craving directness, Fanning's approach offered a refreshing layer of interpretation, celebrating both the history of fashion and the magic of storytelling. Her Met Gala ensemble solidified her status not just as an actress of remarkable talent, but as a true fairytale fashion icon, forever intertwined with the Sleeping Beauty she brought so vividly to life.