by Kristen Wuest, Resident Flutist

In honor of the 2026 Met Gala—and four years since Lizzo stole the red carpet with her gold flute (aka our “Lizzo Met Gala” moment)—we introduce: If Flutes Were Fashion.

Flute sales can be compared to car sales because of the price point, to Warby Parker because of the at-home trial program, and to other industries for a variety of reasons. But as a self-proclaimed fashionista who considers the world her runway, I like to think of flutes through a fashion lens. Not only can you purchase a blinged-out flute or add a little BARREL BLING, but there’s also a striking connection between expressing yourself through fashion and through your flute.

I love color and excitement. I feel my best in bright, standout pieces—think Versace. To me, blandness is boring. Similarly, I play a Miyazawa flute, known for its bright sound and vibrant color.

Others prefer a more muted, classic look. Chanel is often considered the definition of “classic,” with a vintage-inspired style that remains timeless. It’s easy to draw a parallel between Haynes and Chanel. Haynes is one of the founding manufacturers in American flute making, and its vintage instruments are highly sought after and deeply admired for their history—much like Chanel in the world of high fashion.

Then there are instruments defined by craftsmanship at the highest level. Hermès comes to mind. It’s a brand known not for loud logos, but for an uncompromising dedication to detail, where even the elements you don’t see are perfected. I think of Muramatsu in the same way. Known for being among the finest-made flutes in the world, Muramatsu’s mastery extends down to proprietary details like their pads. Muramatsu flutes are also incredibly consistent despite being handmade. It's the kind of quality you feel and immediately know it’s a Muramatsu flute. The same can be said about Hermes. While the Kelly bag is customizable down to the stitching color, you can still spot a Kelly bag from blocks away.

Playing my flute allows me to express what words cannot. I feel the same way when I wear a bright pink, handmade capsule piece from an up-and-coming designer I discovered. I love expressing myself through my wardrobe, and I genuinely feel joy when planning my outfits for the week. That same joy comes through when I play my flute.

At Flute Center, we understand that a flute becomes part of a player’s identity—both inside and outside the practice room. That’s why we offer a personalized experience, helping you find the flute that truly fits you.