Dive into Met Gala history with the most daring and iconic looks ever seen. From Rihanna to Lady Gaga, these ensembles have redefined red carpet fashion.
It’s Met Gala time! Fashion’s biggest night is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see what stunning looks will be served up this time around. This iconic event, dedicated to raising funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art‘s Costume Institute, is a staple in the calendars of celebrity fashionistas and a must-watch for enthusiasts and pop culture connoisseurs alike.
This year’s gala will take place on Monday, May 6, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The theme of this year’s Costume Institute exhibition is quite enigmatic: Sleeping Beauties: Awakening Fashion. While the dress code is ‘The Garden of Time’.
While formal red carpets may bring to mind gorgeous gowns and elegant tuxedos, the Met Gala stands out for its fearless embrace of fashion risks. Fashion history has been made on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art with the bold and truly edgy looks worn by guests over the years. As we eagerly await the official ceremony, take a look at some of the boldest gala looks that left an indelible mark on the fashion world.
His Best Met Gala Dress Ever
Jared Leto, 2023
Jared Leto is known for turning heads at his Met Gala, and in 2023 he is certainly It did not disappoint. Leto took the theme “In Honor of Karl Lagerfeld” and took his own interpretation to the next level by paying homage to Lagerfeld’s beloved cat Choupette. The Morbius star’s bold wardrobe choices definitely turned heads on the red carpet, showcasing his penchant for pushing the boundaries of fashion and creativity at one of the industry’s most prestigious events.
Kim Kardashian, 2021
Kim Kardashian made a splash with her bold fashion statement at the 2021 Met Gala, bringing moments of glamor and anonymity to the red carpet. Wearing a striking black haute couture dress by Balenciaga with a matching train and mask, Kardashian left viewers guessing who was behind the ensemble.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, 2019
In 2019, Priyanka Chopra once again dazzled the Met Gala crowd with a stunning ensemble that was a testament to eccentricity and extravagance that fit perfectly with the theme of the event. Chopra’s Dior ensemble, which paid homage to Susan Sontag’s iconic essay “Notes on ‘Camp,'” brilliantly interpreted the theme and demonstrated the perfect balance between theatricality and haute couture.
Cardi B, 2019
Cardi B’s Met Gala 2019 look shocked the fashion world. Her hand-embroidered dress was made of luxurious tulle and silk organza and stuffed with down. It was a masterpiece, decorated with an astonishing 30,000 fired and dyed feathers. The sheer extravagance of the dress is matched by the incredible effort that went into its creation. A team of 35 people spent her 2,000 hours creating it. To finish off the ensemble, Cardi B wore a horn beaded headpiece by Thom Browne and Stephen Jones.
Katy Perry, 2018
Katy Perry perfectly executed her 2018 Met Gala theme “Heavenly Bodies” in a stunning ensemble. Perfectly capturing the dreamy essence of the theme, the pop star arrived at the event in a shimmering, striking gold Versace dress. Paired with matching boots, Perry’s outfit radiated glamour and luxury. But what really caught the attention were the giant feathery angel wings that towered above her and added an ethereal touch to her ensemble.
Rihanna, 2017
Rihanna’s annual appearance at the Met Gala is always eagerly anticipated by fans and fashion enthusiasts alike, as they eagerly anticipate what the Grammy-winning singer will grace the red carpet with each year. In 2017, Rihanna once again captured attention with her stunning ensemble, this time donning a creation by Comme des Garçons. The sculptural piece, a homage to the year’s theme, “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between” exhibit, featured layered floral fabrics that were both bold and avant-garde.
Katy Perry, 2017
Arguably a highlight of the Met Gala carpet every year, Katy Perry is known for her bold and memorable fashion choices. In 2017, Perry took on the role of co-chair of the event, and her expectations for her ensemble were even greater. She made a striking statement in a red ensemble that showcased her unique style. Perry wore an embroidered wool coat over a red tulle and chiffon dress decorated with satin ribbon embellishments. This look was completed with a silk veil that added drama and elegance to her overall look.
Guo Pei’s Rihanna, 2015
Pop star Rihanna turned heads with her unforgettable performance at the 2015 Met Gala. She appeared wearing a stunning cape designed by Guo Pei, trimmed with bright yellow fur. She captivated the viewers. Rihanna’s ensemble, paired with her matching tiara, exuded her regal elegance and made her bold fashion statement on her red carpet.