Memorable Met Gala Looks That Have Entered The Fashion Hall Of Fame

The Met Gala is the biggest fashion event of the year. All eyes are on the incredible clothing creations that are put together for the annual occasion in New York City. Famous actors, musicians, and even political figures can't pass up an invitation to the festivities where money is raised for the the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. Each year has its own unique theme at the Gala which has led to mind-blowing garments being worn that become so much more than simply outfits: They transform into unforgettable fashion moments.

The Met Gala is the perfect opportunity to go fully maximalist with ideas so ensembles become pieces of art that are remembered for generations to come. Over the years, designers and fashion houses have refreshed the ways in which they interpret the Gala's theme. Looks must deliver in terms of both beauty and creativity. Many have been celebrated for the intricate details that bring a certain outfit to life while others have undergone a massive effort to make a major impression with a stunning piece of art. 

Fashionistas like Blake Lively and Zendaya have repeatedly understood the assignment by wearing incredibly original pieces. Others, including Kim Kardashian, have looked to vintage styles for inspiration to ensure that their ensembles are never boring. This has led to some of the most unforgettable outfits from the Met Gala's history, contributing to the excitement that comes from anticipating each year's arrivals.   

"Wicked" press meant that 2024 was a jam-packed year for Ariana Grande, so her Met Gala outfit had to be spectacular. She delivered with an elegant Loewe gown with a corset bodice that featured an opulent element from the Earth: mother of pearl. It reflected the light stunningly and had a special connection to Grande as pearl is her birthstone. A flowing ivory chiffon skirt completed the princess ensemble, having teal tulle underneath for extra oceanic vibes and a pop of color. The accessorizing also put this dress on the map: "The petals by her eyes is gonna go down in history as my favorite look," one Redditor noted.

For the 2022 Met Gala, Kim Kardashian chose to wear a historic garment that was previously worn by the legendary Marilyn Monroe. The nude gown covered in rhinestones was taken from display at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Kardashian told Vogue just after the Met that the dress stood out to her because as "the original naked dress" it was daring back when Monroe first wore it, but is now a popular sheer style. She lost 16 pounds to fit into the dress that was more than 50 years old so the original silhouette would not need to be altered. 

One of Blake Lively's best Met Gala outfits over the years functioned as a magic act of sorts. In 2022, Lively stunned the crowd in a detailed industrial copper gown by Atelier Versace. Her strapless corset bodice was reminiscent of building material with pops of teal and rose gold throughout. The skirt included a large bow that was hiding a big surprise. As she made her way up the stairs, Lively undid the bow to reveal a stunning long teal train. The visual represented the Statue of Liberty and how its color has naturally oxidized over time. 

Billie Eilish showed a new side of herself at the 2021 Met Gala. The young starlet completely contrasted her dark pop aesthetic by turning heads on the carpet in a darling Oscar de la Renta ballgown, and with blond hair! This platinum shade matched her porcelain skin and was styled in a layered bob. Her peach-colored ballgown was the epitome of elegance as it was covered entirely in tulle. Material cascaded off Eilish's shoulders and on to her massive statement skirt. Eilish was just 19 at the time but walked with maturity beyond her years. "I mean she literally looks like a queen," a Redditor confirmed four years later.

The 2019 Met Gala was all about campy styles, and Zendaya did not pass up the chance to step into the glass slippers of a classic fairy tale character. As if it were a royal ball, Zendaya showed up in a big, bright, silver-and-blue Cinderella gown complete with puff sleeves. Instead of looking like a basic costume, the Tommy Hilfiger dress lit up with blue lights illuminating from the large skirt to the fitted bodice. Zendaya's stylist Law Roach even completed the scene by dressing as the Fairy Godmother, waving a magic wand. Zendaya's Cinderella Met Gala look was certainly an iconic fashion moment!

Lady Gaga delivered on her signature over-the-top style with her 2019 Met Gala wardrobe that was four chic looks in one. She hit the carpet in a fuchsia gown that included a 25-foot train trailing behind the songstress. Then, Gaga theatrically shed the top layer of her dress which transformed into a strapless black gown with a bubble skirt. As she moved down the carpet, her next outfit change revealed a long and slimming pink sheath dress that hugged Gaga's waist. Her final look was a black bedazzled bra and panty set with sheer stockings, so it's easy to see why the media looks back on this daring look each year. 

Even royalty has graced the Met Gala, as Princess Diana attended the event in 1996. Much like how Princess Diana's revenge dress became one of the most iconic looks in fashion history, her Met Gala look proved how effortlessly she pulled off looking sexy and sophisticated. Princess Diana wore a navy slip dress by Dior's John Galliano that was lined with black lace, and accessorized with matching jewels on her necklace, bracelets, and earrings. Although a shoulder-baring dress was a risky choice for the former member of the British royal family, Princess Diana wore the garment with grace.