Sleeper Feather-trimmed Pajamas
What glittering extravaganza is missing this first Monday in May in New York City?  Because of the Coronavirus pandemic, there is no Met Gala today. Me, I’m celebrating with my sheltering-at-home pajamas.  Also, I thought now would be a great time to explore the history of the awards ceremony red carpet. Where did this tradition originate?

The History of the Awards Ceremony Red Carpet

The Met Gala is one of the most glamourous red carpet events of the year.  The 2020 theme About Time:  Fashion and Duration to celebrate the Museum’s 150-anniversary.  Currently, the Met closed until further notice; the annual exhibit postponed until October 29.

Duke Ellington Book from Amazon; Nordstrom Vintage Store See You Tomorrow Pre-Loved Manolo Blahnik Black and White Mules

The first known mention of a red carpet used as a pathway for an individual of high status recorded in 458 B.C. in the Greek play “Agamemnon.”  According to online sources, in one scene, the wife of King Agamemnon lays out a “floor of crimson broideries” to lead the king back to his throne.

Postponement of the 2020 Met Gala; A Moment with the Met

One of the first modern instances of the use of a red carpet was in Georgetown, South Carolina, in 1821.  When President James Monroe visited the city, the citizens felt that the best way to welcome him lay out a red carpet for him.

#wfh sheltering-at-home
My sheltering-at-home outfit to watch Vogue’s YouTube Livestream, A Moment at the Met.”  I’m wearing Sleeper Marabou Feather Pajamas with Nordstrom’s Resale shop, See You Tomorrow Manolo Blahnik Maysalebi black and White Buckle Mule.

Further, sources say, while these historical events set a precedent for red carpets at awards shows.  Perhaps the direct inspiration for their use comes from a train station.  In 1902, the 20th Century Limited Express began taking passengers on the fastest train route ever constructed from New York to Chicago.

The operators of the train wanted to have the association with speed and luxury, so they set out a red carpet for passengers to follow as they boarded the train.

 Assumptions made from this 1922 use of a scarlet-hued runway-inspired the owner of the Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles. Why? The owner, Mr. Grauman, wanted to beef up the premiere of the Douglas Fairbanks film, Robin Hood.

Now that we know the history behind the ultimate stage, I want to get back to the first Monday in May. It’s worth noting last year’s annual fundraiser raised record-breaking $15 million.  The invitation-only event cost to attend – $30,000.

"A Moment with the Met" exclusive Vogue YouTube Celebration of the Met Gala

Vogue will look back at the highlights from previous years, from the breathtaking red carpet ensembles to memorable moments.  The day will conclude with “A Moment With the Met” – an intimate celebration, available via live stream exclusively on the Vogue YouTube channel starting at 6 p.m. EDT.

As always, thank you for reading.  Please stay healthy and safe.

My photo wearing Sleeper Marabou-Trimmed Crepe de Chine Pajamas on their Instagram page, @daily_sleeper
In this photo, I’m wearing Sleeper Marabou-Trimmed Crepe de Chine Pajamas on the @daily_sleeper Instagram page.

P.S.  I’m excited to share my feature on the Daily Sleeper Instagram page, thank you.

Eugenia, Age of Grace