OF MACHINES & MEN
Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology – New York City
May 5 – August 14
The theme of the always-spectacular Met Gala this year can be seen in this exhibition from the Costume Institute, where the relationship between handmade haute couture and machine-made ready-to-wear is explored, and how modern trends are blurring the line between the two. Showcasing more than 100 fashionable pieces, meticulous handmade couture will face off with machine-made creations, juxtaposing techniques such as pleating with laser cutting and embroidery with thermo shaping. Look out for showstopping pieces by Karl Lagerfeld, Issey Miyake and Hussein Chalayan.
www.metmuseum.org
TEA AT THE QUEEN’S
Royal Garden Parties – London, England
May 10, 19, 24
Practise your very best curtsy before attending one of these exclusive garden parties held annually at Buckingham Palace. An institution since the 1860s, these parties reward and recognise those in the public service while guests from all walks of life rub shoulders with monarchs on the palace gardens and nibble on cakes, sandwiches and teas. The afternoon begins with a playing of the National Anthem before the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh – and other members of the Royal Family – stroll down “lanes” to greet the guests.
www.royal.gov.uk
AUTOS ON THE BLOCK
Sotheby’s Collector Cars Auction – Monte Carlo, Monaco
May 14
While in town for the legendary Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, why not invest in a storied blue-chip collector car? Held at Monte Carlo’s glamorous Le Sporting venue, this biennial auction puts “important and historic competition greats” on the block, including a cerulean 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Roadster – prettily matched to the Côte d’Azur as you drive away with it – and a flashy 1977 Chevron B36 that’s sure to catch the eyes of the Monegasques as it zips down the Circuit de Monaco.
www.sothebys.com
TENNIS LOVES PARIS
Roland-Garros – Paris, France
May 16 – June 5
When the Grand Slam stretch between this and the Australian Open comes to an end at Roland-Garros stadium, all eyes will be on Novak Djokovic, who is attempting to win his first French Open title, and Serena Williams as she tries to beat Steffi Graff’s record of a 22nd Slam title in the Open era. In-between matches, nosh on some French cuisine at the Parisian bistro-esque Les Jardins Gourmets and the French Tennis Federation Museum, which, in addition to a permanent exhibition, may also showcase live jazz and signing sessions.
www.rolandgarros.com