The dress code for the 2016 Met Gala, which preceded the Met exhibition themed "Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology," was "tech white tie." The exhibit focused on the interplay between handmade (manus) and machine-made (machina) fashion. It showcased over 170 outfits dating back to the early 20th century, highlighted the symbolic significance of both approaches over the years, explored the emergence of haute couture in the 19th century following the invention of the sewing machine, and categorized the garments by the trades involved in their creation. Several futuristic pieces were handmade, while some iconic vintage garments were machine-made. The works of designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, Nicolas Ghesquière, Iris van Herpen, Christopher Kane, Karl Lagerfeld, and Miuccia Prada were exhibited.