20 Of The Most Iconic Met Gala Looks Over The Years

By Ava

The Met Gala, an annual glamorous affair held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, has been a renowned event for showcasing visionary fashion ever since the first “Fashion Plate” gathering in 1971. Each year, the prestigious gathering welcomes a parade of red carpet celebrities, including fashion designers, Hollywood stars, pop music icons, and sports champions, all with the purpose of raising funds for the Costume Institute of the Museum.

The highlight of the Met Gala is the celebration of the Costume Institute exhibition’s specific theme, which sets the tone for the evening’s attire. From the haute couture themes inspired by previous designers to the upcoming exhibition’s subject, attendees are required to create their looks in line with the chosen motif. Throughout the years, under the leadership of Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour since 1995, the Met Gala has consistently presented a fascinating array of iconic outfits that continue to captivate the fashion world.

Cher, 1974 Met Gala

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At the 1974 Met Gala, we witnessed Cher in a stunning outfit that caught everyone’s attention. She wore a sheer, jewel-encrusted gown, designed by the legendary Bob Mackie. The outfit showcased Cher’s bold fashion choices and left an indelible mark on Met Gala history.

The form-fitting dress featured glittering embellishments strategically placed throughout, creating a shimmering effect. She complemented the look with subtle makeup and a sleek hairstyle, letting the dress itself take center stage.

Key aspects of Cher’s 1974 Met Gala look:

  • Sheer, jewel-encrusted gown by designer Bob Mackie
  • Form-fitting silhouette with glittering embellishments
  • Subtle makeup and hairstyle to complement the dress

Cher’s daring ensemble remains iconic and continues to inspire fashion lovers. It undoubtedly set the stage for many daring and boundary-pushing Met Gala outfits to come, making Cher a memorable fashion muse.

Bianca Jagger, 1981 Met Gala

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In 1981, Bianca Jagger graced the Met Gala with an outfit that caught everyone’s attention. The ensemble consisted of:

  • bold red dress that showcased her elegance and taste
  • matching red cape adding a dramatic flair to her look
  • Black gloves elevating the sophistication of the outfit
  • Minimal jewelry to avoid overshadowing the stunning dress

Her fashion statement at the Met Gala demonstrated a perfect balance of glamour and poise, which we believe will always be remembered as an iconic Met Gala moment. Bianca Jagger’s 1981 outfit played an important role in setting the standard for future Met Gala outfits.

Naomi Campbell, 1995 Met Gala

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In 1995, Naomi Campbell graced the Met Gala in an unforgettable outfit. As one of the iconic supermodels of that time, she had a powerful presence on the red carpet. The ensemble she chose perfectly captured the essence of the gala’s theme, which celebrated 20th-century women designers.

The outfit featured a black halter top with an intricate lace design, elegantly paired with a black satin floor-length skirt. The halter top’s plunge neckline and the skirt’s thigh-high slit added an air of glamour and sensuality. Her styling choices, which included bold red lipstick, minimal accessories, and a sleek updo, allowed her outfit to be the main focus.

This Met Gala outfit is a prime example of Naomi Campbell’s self-assured and timeless style. We appreciate her contribution to the fashion history of the Met Gala and believe it will continue to be remembered as a significant moment in the event’s chronicle.

Princess Diana, 1995 Met Gala

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At the 1995 Met Gala, Princess Diana wore a stunning ensemble that left a lasting impression. The theme for that year was “Haute Couture,” which celebrates the highest level of craftsmanship and artistry in fashion. Diana chose a navy blue slip dress designed by John Galliano for his first collection at Dior.

The dress featured:

  • A deep V-neckline
  • Thin spaghetti straps
  • Delicate lace trimming
  • A form-fitting silhouette

To accessorize her look, Diana opted for a multi-strand pearl choker with a sapphire and diamond pendant, a gift from the Queen Mother. She also carried a matching navy blue clutch and wore a pair of elegant high-heeled sandals.

Princess Diana’s choice to wear Galliano’s design was both a fashion statement and a nod to the British fashion industry, showcasing her support for local talent. Today, her 1995 Met Gala outfit remains a memorable moment in the event’s history, and an iconic example of her timeless style.

Bella Hadid, 2018 Met Gala

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At the 2018 Met Gala, Bella Hadid made a stunning appearance with a bold outfit choice. Her look perfectly captured the theme of “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination.” The supermodel wore a striking ensemble by designer Chrome Hearts x Gareth Pugh.

The outfit featured:

  • A black latex long-sleeve top
  • A black floor-length skirt with a high slit
  • A dramatic, long train made of cross-shaped paneling
  • A custom-designed headpiece with a long veil

Bella added her unique flair to the ensemble by accessorizing with:

  • Black leather fingerless gloves
  • A thick black choker
  • Silver cross-shaped earrings
  • Statement-making black heels

We can confidently say that Bella Hadid’s 2018 Met Gala outfit was a memorable contribution to the history of the Met Gala’s red carpet looks.

Beyonce, 2014 Met Gala

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In 2014, Beyonce graced the Met Gala with her extraordinary presence and distinct fashion sense. Clad in a stunning gown, Queen Bey stole the show and turned heads all around. Her eye-catching outfit was tailored perfectly for the theme of the year, which was “Charles James: Beyond Fashion.” Here are some details about her remarkable appearance at the event:

  • Dress Designer: Beyonce’s showstopping attire was designed by the celebrated Italian fashion house Givenchy.
  • Gown Details: The gown featured an exquisite, intricate combination of beading and lace. Its peek-a-boo design showcased her gorgeous figure, while the sheer fabric wowed onlookers.
  • Accessories: Beyonce complemented her look with glamorous Lorraine Schwartz jewelry, solidifying her position as the Queen of the night.

Not only did Beyonce’s outfit capture the essence of the night’s theme, but it also transcended expectations and became one of the most iconic Met Gala outfits of all time. We will forever remember the awe-inspiring visual experience that was Beyonce at the 2014 Met Gala.

Rihanna, 2015 Met Gala

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In 2015, the Met Gala was a night to remember, especially for Rihanna. She arrived on the red carpet in a stunning gown designed by Guo Pei. The dress’s royal yellow color and the incredible train, which took two years to create, immediately caught everyone’s attention.

We noticed some key features of Rihanna’s outfit:

  • Dress: An intricately embroidered, fur-trimmed yellow cape that gracefully cascaded behind her.
  • Headpiece: A matching, bejeweled headdress that added a regal flair to her overall look.
  • Shoes: Nude, strappy stiletto heels that subtly complemented the gown.

The outfit choice was met with high praise for its jaw-dropping appeal and embodiment of the gala’s theme, “China: Through the Looking Glass.” Rihanna’s 2015 Met Gala look will be remembered as an iconic fashion moment that showcased her fearless style and the awe-inspiring work of designer Guo Pei.

Lady Gaga, 2019 Met Gala

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At the 2019 Met Gala, we witnessed Lady Gaga delivering one of the most memorable outfits to date. As one of the co-chairs for the event, she went above and beyond to embody the theme, “Camp: Notes on Fashion.”

Lady Gaga made a grand entrance on the pink carpet, showcasing not just one, but four different outfits in a live performance art piece, each layer being stripped away to reveal the next.

  • The first outfit was a fuchsia, parachute-like gown designed by Brandon Maxwell, complete with a voluminous 25-foot train and an entourage of suited assistants using umbrellas to accentuate her dramatic entrance.
  • Underneath the fuchsia gown, Lady Gaga revealed a black strapless evening dress, also by Brandon Maxwell, paired with a black umbrella, recalling the vibes of classic Hollywood glamour.
  • The third outfit was a slim-fit, hot pink evening gown accessorized with over-sized sunglasses, a retro-inspired mobile phone, and a glitzy hat box.
  • Last but not least, Lady Gaga stripped down to the final ensemble, a sparkling black bra, fishnet stockings, and matching panties, accompanied by sky-high platform boots.

Each outfit demonstrated Lady Gaga’s ability to captivate and entertain, while remaining true to her unique style and persona. Her bold and unforgettable presence at the 2019 Met Gala reaffirmed her status as a fashion icon.

Anna Wintour, 2003 Met Gala

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In 2003, the Met Gala featured Anna Wintour, a fashion icon and Editor-in-Chief of Vogue magazine. Wintour has been a significant figure in the world of fashion for decades and is known for her impeccable taste and influence on style trends.

At the 2003 event, Wintour wore a stunning outfit that showcased her elegant sense of fashion. Her dress featured modern design elements with a touch of classic style. The ensemble left a lasting impression on attendees and fashion enthusiasts alike.

As the Met Gala’s unofficial queen, Anna Wintour continues to inspire and shape the fashion world with her outfit choices at each event, setting the tone for the stylish evening.

Jennifer Lopez, 2019 Met Gala

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At the 2019 Met Gala, Jennifer Lopez dazzled everyone with her stunning outfit. The theme of the gala was “Camp: Notes on Fashion,” inspired by Susan Sontag’s 1964 essay, “Notes on Camp.” We witnessed JLo rocking a glittering, form-fitting gown as she walked the red carpet.

The gown was designed by the iconic Lebanese fashion designer, Zuhair Murad. Covered in silver sequins and beads, the outfit beautifully showcased her flawless figure. The Versace gown featured a plunging neckline, thigh-high slit, and an elaborate feathered train, adding even more drama to JLo’s entrance.

To complete her look, Jennifer Lopez accessorized with dazzling platinum jewelry from the renowned jeweler, Harry Winston. The pieces included:

  • Custom Cascading Diamond Necklace: 73.4 carats of diamonds in a waterfall-like arrangement.
  • Diamond Chandelier Earrings: 29.59 carats of diamonds meticulously crafted into a chandelier design.
  • Assorted Diamond Rings: A collection of unique rings showcasing various cuts and sizes, totaling 16.28 carats of diamonds.

The 2019 Met Gala showcased Jennifer Lopez’s impeccable fashion sense and her ability to make an unforgettable statement at major events. Her outfit truly embodied the Camp theme and left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.

Madonna, 2018 Met Gala

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In the 2018 Met Gala, Madonna made a memorable appearance with her unique outfit. The theme that year was “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” and Madonna embraced it wholeheartedly. She wore a black Jean Paul Gaultier gown with a fitted bodice, a voluminous skirt, and a sheer cross-emblazoned net overlay. Her accessories included:

  • silver crown with multiple crosses
  • An ornate rosary necklace draped around her neck
  • Fingerless gloves and black leather armbands
  • A delicate veil that covered her face

This ensemble showcased her flair for theatricality, while staying true to the event’s theme. Madonna’s outfit that night was a striking example of how celebrities interpret the Met Gala’s yearly themes and make bold fashion statements on the red carpet.

Sarah Jessica Parker, 2006 Met Gala

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In 2006, Sarah Jessica Parker graced the Met Gala with a stunning ensemble that left a lasting impression. For the evening, she chose to wear:

  • Designer: Alexander McQueen
  • Dress: A one-shoulder gown with layers of tulle in a champagne hue
  • Accessories: Dramatic diamond jewelry, including a necklace and drop earrings
  • Theme: Anglomania: Tradition and Transgression in British Fashion

We can’t forget the outstanding detail of this look: Sarah Jessica Parker attended the Met Gala with the designer himself, Alexander McQueen, as her date. The pair made an unforgettable statement on the red carpet, showcasing both their talent and their appreciation for avant-garde fashion.

The unforgettable pairing of Sarah Jessica Parker and Alexander McQueen was a defining moment for the Met Gala and showcased the power of fashion collaborations.

Blake Lively, 2022 Met Gala

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As experts in fashion, we can’t forget to mention Blake Lively’s stunning appearance at the 2022 Met Gala. Known for her impeccable style, the actress absolutely dazzled us with her outfit choice for this prestigious event.

Blake’s gown was a perfect representation of the Met Gala’s 2022 theme. The intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship showcased the essence of fashion as an art form. Furthermore, her choice of accessories and makeup perfectly complemented the outfit, elevating her overall look.

Some noteworthy aspects of Blake Lively’s 2022 Met Gala outfit include:

  • The Dress: A floor-length, custom-designed gown with meticulous beadwork and embroidery. The silhouette accentuated her figure while the dramatic train added a glamorous touch.
  • Accessories: Carefully chosen to highlight the dress, she wore statement earrings and minimalist rings, allowing the gown to take center stage.
  • Makeup: Her makeup was subtle yet striking, with a focus on her eyes and a soft, natural lip color.

In conclusion, Blake Lively’s Met Gala 2022 ensemble was a true testament to her sense of style and understanding of the event’s significance. We look forward to seeing more of her fashion choices in the future.

Kim Kardashian, 2019 Met Gala

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In 2019, Kim Kardashian attended the Met Gala, dazzling everyone with her stunning ensemble. The theme for that year was “Camp: Notes on Fashion”, and Kim’s outfit was nothing short of eye-catching. Designed by Thierry Mugler, her form-fitting dress accentuated her iconic curves and was made to resemble water droplets, giving the appearance of wet skin.

The dress featured a corset-like structure underneath, creating an hourglass silhouette. Crystal bead strands were expertly placed to give the illusion of water cascading down her body. To complement the look, Kim wore custom-made, see-through Yeezy shoes and sported wet-look hair that further emphasized the theme.

A highlight of that year’s Met Gala, Kim Kardashian’s outfit was truly a work of art, showcasing her commitment to pushing the envelope of fashion. We can’t wait to see what she has in store for future events.

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Florence Welch, 2012 Met Gala

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At the 2012 Met Gala, Florence Welch made a stunning appearance in a unique outfit that not only turned heads, but also perfectly embodied the theme of the event. As we recall, the theme that year was “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations,” which celebrated the eccentric vision of two iconic fashion designers.

Here are the details of her outfit at the gala:

  • Dress: Florence chose an elaborate tiered dress, featuring a metallic finish and gradient shades. The dress was designed by Alexander McQueen, well-known for their unconventional designs and exquisite craftsmanship.
  • Colors: The gown featured darker shades at the top, which gradually transitioned from a deep navy to a lighter turquoise at the hem.
  • Accessories: To complement the gown, she wore a turquoise ring and steely gray nail polish.
  • Shoes: She opted for a pair of black platform heels, which contributed to the overall dramatic effect of her ensemble.
  • Styling: Florence’s hair was a loose, wavy red mane that enhanced her ethereal look. Her makeup was kept minimal, allowing the gown to take center stage.

This outfit exemplified Florence Welch’s fearless and creative sense of fashion, capturing the essence of the gala’s theme. The Alexander McQueen gown became one of the most memorable Met Gala outfits and continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts today.

Cardi B, 2018 Met Gala

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At the 2018 Met Gala, Cardi B made a stunning statement with her choice of outfit. The theme that year was “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” and Cardi B embraced it fully. She wore a custom Moschino gown, designed by Jeremy Scott. The dress was a pearl and gem-encrusted creation with an opulent matching headpiece, giving her an iconic and memorable look.

We believe that Cardi B’s 2018 Met Gala outfit was a perfect example of how the theme can be interpreted and incorporated into a fashion statement. The choice of colors, fabrics, and intricate details all contributed to the overwhelming elegance and beauty of her ensemble.

Gigi Hadid, 2021 Met Gala

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In the 2021 Met Gala, we saw Gigi Hadid grace the event with her stunning presence. She chose a beautiful white gown by Prada, perfectly showcasing her sense of style and fitting the theme of “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion.” The gown featured a fitted bodice, long sleeves, and a dramatic cape. Her choice of jewelry was equally stunning, as she wore a dazzling pair of earrings and rings to complement her outfit.

Gigi’s hair was styled in a retro fashion, reminiscent of Old Hollywood glam. This choice added an extra touch of elegance to her entire look. The combination of her outfit, accessories, and hairstyle made Gigi Hadid stand out among the other attendees and showed her understanding of the Met Gala’s theme.

In summary, Gigi Hadid’s 2021 Met Gala outfit was a beautiful display of her fashion sense and understanding of the event’s theme. Her attention to detail and choice of elegant accessories made her one of the most memorable attendees. We appreciate her dedication to making a statement on the red carpet while still staying true to her personal style.

Naomi Watts, 2008 Met Gala

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We remember Naomi Watts gracing the 2008 Met Gala in an elegant outfit that caught our attention. Dressed in a sophisticated strapless dress, the actress embodied sophistication and glamour, aligning well with the evening’s theme.

The gown, designed by a renowned fashion house, featured intricate detailing and a flattering silhouette, making Watts stand out among the other attendees. Her choice of accessories, including a delicate clutch and dazzling jewelry, elevated the overall ensemble, truly showcasing her refined taste and style.

Naomi Watts’ appearance at the 2008 Met Gala is a testament to her ability to captivate a crowd and express her unique fashion sense. This look undoubtedly remains one of the memorable outfits from the renowned event.

Lupita Nyong’o, 2019 Met Gala

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In 2019, Lupita Nyong’o made a bold fashion statement at the Met Gala. True to the event’s theme, “Camp: Notes on Fashion,” she wore a stunning outfit that turned heads and captured attention.

Her ensemble featured a pink and mint green star-patterned gown, elegantly designed by Versace. The top was adorned with gold Afro picks as a unique accessory. Lupita’s hairstyle garnered attention as it was creatively arranged in a voluminous updo, incorporating additional Afro picks with black fist-shaped handles. This powerful choice paid homage to African beauty and black power.

To complete her memorable look, Lupita wore an audacious makeup style, which included bold teal eyebrows and vividly colored eyeshadow. The entire ensemble was topped off with a golden clutch shaped like a fan.

We can’t help but appreciate Lupita’s fearless and captivating approach to the Met Gala’s 2019 theme, which showcased her confident, knowledgeable, and clear fashion sense.

Hailey Bieber, 2022 Met Gala

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At the 2022 Met Gala, Hailey Bieber showcased a stunning outfit that grabbed our attention. Dressed in a sleek, form-fitting gown, Hailey truly embraced the spirit of the event. The gown’s embellishments, fabric choice, and overall design beautifully aligned with the Met Gala’s tradition of showcasing creativity and fashion innovation.

We particularly appreciated how her dress subtly incorporated the event’s theme, effortlessly combining elements of elegance and sophistication. Moreover, the styling of her hair and makeup perfectly complemented her outfit, demonstrating her keen sense of fashion and attention to detail.

Accessorized with minimal yet impactful jewelry pieces, Hailey Bieber’s 2022 Met Gala look was a brilliant blend of simplicity and glamour, making her one of the night’s most memorable attendees.

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