New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art has announced a new theme for its 2027 Costume Institute exhibition, following the cancellation of a planned retrospective dedicated to British fashion designer John Galliano over controversy surrounding his past antisemitic remarks.
Titled extraORDINARY, the exhibition will run from May 9, 2027, to January 9, 2028. It will explore how everyday objects can reveal unexpected aspects of design and personal expression.
The original plan to honour Galliano was abandoned in August after his past comments drew criticism from donors and political figures. The designer later expressed regret, saying, “I remain fully accountable for the pain caused by my words in the past, particularly the hurt I caused to the Jewish and Asian communities, and I remain deeply sorry.”
Galliano, who previously led Christian Dior and Maison Margiela, left the latter in 2024. In March 2026, he also announced a two-year artistic partnership with Zara.
Andrew Bolton, curator of the Met’s Costume Institute, highlighted how ordinary clothing can carry personal memories and meaning.
The exhibition will be supported by the museum’s annual Met Gala, scheduled for May 3, 2027, which brings together prominent personalities from fashion and entertainment.
