Last Friday evening, the Lindenwood Fashion Society transformed the Spellman AB leadership room into a vibrant runway for its annual signature event: the MET Gala 2026, themed Animalia. This event was inspired by the beauty, power, and diversity of the animal kingdom. The night invited students to explore fashion through bold, imaginative interpretations of nature, from feathers and fur to intricate patterns and avant-garde designs.
The event featured a lively atmosphere filled with music, dancing, themed decor, food, and immersive photo opportunities that made attendees feel as if they had stepped into a glamorous jungle-inspired showcase. Throughout the evening, attendees competed for six awards: Most Creative, Best Styling, Best Construction, Most Realistic, People’s Choice, and Society’s Choice, the latter determined by the members of the Fashion Society.
For Fashion Society President Noah Bergman, a senior who has been a part of the organization since freshman year, it was made clear that the event represents more than just a fashion show.
“It is just a place where I can hang with some creative people and get to do fun things and plan events,” Bergman said. “It is a really great way to meet people, which is really important, and it’s a thing where every freshman class that joins becomes a friend group.”
Bergman also explained the inspiration behind this year’s theme and the inspiration behind his outfit.
“So this year’s theme was Animalia,” he said. “We just wanted to focus on all things nature, fur, feathers, leather, and all the different kinds of patterns. It has been really fun to see what people have come up with. I dressed as an albino rabbit, so I have got the white fur, the ears, and the red eyes they normally have.”
Beyond fashion and creativity, the event also highlighted a strong sense of community within Lindenwood student organizations. Attendees from Greek life emphasized how events like the MET Gala help bring campus groups together.
Aubree Reiland, a senior and member of Delta Zeta, spoke about the importance of showing up for other organizations on campus.
“Going to events is such a big deal,” Reiland said. “We love the community. Lindenwood is somewhere that just needs a little more involvement. Going to everyone’s events is a way to raise awareness and bring everyone together into one big community.”
Claire Mascia, a senior from Phi Sigma Sigma, echoed that sentiment, adding that support across organizations strengthens campus culture.
“It just means supporting our fellow Lindenwood people,” Mascia said. “Especially Noah, since he is the president, we love getting to support him because he always supports our events too. It creates a really strong sense of community.”
Students also expressed excitement about the theme itself. Mascia noted that Animalia offered endless creative possibilities.
“I love it so much,” she said. “There are so many opportunities to dress up and have fun. The sets and props are adorable, too.”
For freshman Madison Olson, the Fashion Society offered a way to stay connected to a long-time passion.
“I have been sewing since I was eight,” Olson said. “I knew I wasn’t going to major in fashion, but I heard about the Fashion Society and thought it would be a good way to keep up with it.”
Olson also explained the society’s structure and how the annual theme is chosen.
“We have about 12-15 members, sometimes more,” she said. “We vote on ideas every year, narrow it down, and then do a campus-wide vote through socials. This is definitely our biggest event of the year.”
As music filled the venue and students showcased their creative designs, the MET Gala: Animalia highlighted more than just fashion; it celebrated collaboration, expression, and the growing sense of community at Lindenwood University.
By the end of the night, one thing was made clear: when creativity meets campus spirit, the result is unforgettable.
