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The upper crust of New York City society and all of the most relevant celebrities are preparing for their night on the red carpet at the annual Met Gala, but last night, The People’s Ball held court.
Last year, we named it the best nightlife event of 2023, and for good reason! Unlike the invitation-only event at the Met Museum tonight, the People’s Ball is open to all—and for free—at the Brooklyn Public Library. And on Sunday night, everyone was allowed to show off their best looks.
As the Library states, “the People’s Ball declares that the pinnacle of fashion is found in the everyday New Yorker!”
RECOMMENDED: This year’s Met Gala theme and hosts have been announced
The event was co-curated by Harlem icon Souleo, actress Delissa Reynolds and celebrity stylist Robert Verdi and featured a performance from drag icon Kevin Aviance, music from DJ Spinna and a tribute to New York Times fashion and street photographer Bill Cunningham on what would’ve been his 95th birthday with a catwalk featuring a group of his former models: Lauren Ezersky, Jean Stone, Lana Turner and Amy Collins.
“The People’s Ball has become one of Brooklyn’s rituals of spring,” said László Jakab Orsós, Vice President of Arts and Culture at Brooklyn Public Library. “Last night, hundreds of people from every corner of the borough and from every walk of life showed off their stellar outfits and unique personalities on a runway in the middle of the public library. This event celebrates the true spirit of democracy and reminds us that fashion and creativity belong to everyone, and you really don't need much to be a relevant part of it – just imagination, inspiration, courage, and a zest for life, values that we all deeply believe in at the library."
Below, see 10 of the most fabulous fits from the People’s Ball (and you can see 2023’s looks here).
1. A Gold leaf suit
2. An all-denim dress
3. Power in gold
4. The best hat of the night
5. A clear message
6. A floral arrangement
7. The People’s princess
8. Brooklyn fashion trio
9. Paper plumes
10. Call 911, she’s on fire
