The most epic Met Gala dresses of all time
With the Met Gala under two weeks away, fashion fans are on the edge of their seats as we eagerly await the most major red carpet of the year.
Which couples will hard-launch on fashion's most prestigious red carpet? Who will ace the theme? And most importantly, what will Zendaya wear?
Taking place on Monday May 5th, the Met Gala will mark the opening of the Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibit which is this year is entitled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.”
With Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour serving as the evening's co-chairs - we're expecting some pretty major looks. We're imagining plenty of suave suiting, pristine tailoring and some epic trains.
But while we wait patiently for the final embellishments to be appliquéd and the 2025 red carpet to be rolled out, now is the perfect time to take a nostalgic look back at the Met Gala fashion moments that have thrilled us over previous years.
Your Met Gala cheat sheet awaits.
From a baby-faced Anna Wintour wearing golden sequins and Bianca Jagger in that unforgettable black corseted ball gown, to Rihanna's outrageously long yellow cape and Beyoncé's see-through showstopper - if the stars didn't turn heads, they didn't make this list.
Want to know more? Check out our guide to what the Met Gala is or check out all of the looks from last year's Met Gala.
Keep an eye on our Met Gala hub page as we keep it updated ahead of - and during - this year's instalment, and scroll down to see the most epic Met Gala dresses of all time…
Getty ImagesRihanna, 2015
...she took it up a level. If there's one thing certain in life it's that it will take a lot for someone to out-do Rihanna's 2015 Met Gala look.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty ImagesZendaya, 2024
Is it even possible for Zendaya to walk a red carpet without landing on a best-dressed list? We'll never know. Wearing John Galliano for Maison Margiela straight off the runway, complete with a dramatic matching headpiece, the actress went for smokey-chic on the 2024 carpet.
Jamie McCarthyMichaela Coel, 2023
One of our all-time favourites, Michaela's Schiaparelli gown and Emefa Cole SMO Gold jewellery was an undeniable hit in 2023.
Getty ImagesKendall Jenner, 2021
Braving the super sheer trend, Kendall's Givenchy gown was one of the most memorable of the evening thanks to its incredible embellishment.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty ImagesDemi Moore, 2024
As if The Substance star needed more praise, her Harris Reed number deserves a standing ovation.
Getty ImagesKate Moss, 1995
Kate Moss is a mainstay in any best dressed list. Kate's slip dress in 1995 was a classic choice of the model - and of course, it would make our list as well.
Getty ImagesDavid Beckham and Victoria Beckham, 2008
David Beckham and Victoria Beckham gave us major relationship goals at the 2008 Met Ball. She stepped out showing some skin, and David kept it classic and simple.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty ImagesElle Fanning, 2024
Call her Elsa because Elle Fanning arrived looking like a beautiful ice princess (or ice sculpture) designed by Balmain to the 2024 Met Gala.
Jamie McCarthyAnne Hathaway, 2023
Iconically Versace, Anne Hathaway's safety-pin look in 2023 was unexpectedly edgy for the star - which was exactly why we loved it.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty ImagesGreta Lee, 2024
Arguably the breakout red carpet darling of 2024, the Past Lives actress had been on nearly ever best-dressed list that year so it only made sense she'd make this one. She nailed her first MET Gala appearance in an ethereal custom Loewe gown.
Lady Gaga, 2019
The first of her four Brandon Maxwell looks of the evening, no one was in any doubt that Lady Gaga stole the show in 2019.
Noam Galai/GADua Lipa, 2023
Wearing a 1992 Chanel Bridal gown, Dua's dropped waist, corseted silhouette could easily be mistaken for current season couture.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty ImagesTyla, 2024
For her inaugural MET Gala, Tyla was a sand sculpture made by Balmain—a clever take on a theme about time.
Getty ImagesZoe Kravitz, 2021
Who could forget Zoe Kravitz in this Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello look? Truly one of the fashion moments of the year.
John Shearer/Getty ImagesCynthia Erivo, 2024
Taking the Garden of Time theme literally, the Wicked star wore a deconstructed tux by Thom Browne featuring pink silk moiré petals and 3D beaded insects before changing to perform on stage for the evening.
John ShearerBillie Eilish, 2022
Billie went viral on social media for being one of the only 2022 attendees to actually understand the assignment and dress for the theme; ‘Gilded Glamour’. It's full marks from us.
Getty ImagesKaia Gerber, 2021
The epitome of elegance, Kaia's timeless Oscar de la Renta gown from 2021 was exceptional.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty ImagesGigi Hadid, 2024
Elegant, interesting and on theme, Gigi Hadid slayed in Thom Browne's creation.
Jamie McCarthyHailey Bieber, 2022
Ever elegant, Hailey's Saint Laurent gown and Tiffany & Co. jewellery was one of the most popular looks of the 2022 Met Gala.
Getty ImagesLupita Nyong'o, 2014
All eyes were on Lupita Nyong'o when she arrived at 2014's Met Ball with a gorgeously embellished gown in emerald green - even her sandals had gems.
Getty ImagesHugh Grant and Elizabeth Hurley , 1997
Did you even notice Hugh Grant in this photo? He is standing next to the stunning Elizabeth Hurley by the way, who went for a violet dress, with a tight-high slit and heart-shaped neckline.
Getty ImagesNaomi Campbell, 1990
Supermodel Naomi Campbell and American fashion photographer Francesco Scavullo arrive at the 1990 event. Naomi went for a gorgeous printed ensemble.
Getty ImagesNormani, 2021
Bringing the sartorial drama to the 2021 carpet, Normani's Valentino Haute Couture gown from the Fall Winter 21/22 Des Ateliers collection - paired with the most epic matching golden yellow eye look - was one of our favourites.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty ImagesSarah Paulson, 2024
Sarah and Prada were a match made in heaven, evidenced by this pink bow-covered column she sported on the red carpet.
Getty ImagesAnna Wintour, 1989
Vogue Editor-in-Chief and chair of the Met Gala since 1995, Anna Wintour attended the event themed 'The Age of Napoleon: Costume From Revolution To Empire'.
Getty ImagesNatalia Bryant, 2021
One of the most fashion-forward looks on the 2021 carpet, Natalia's Connor Ives look was a major hit amongst industry insiders.
Getty ImagesCher, 1985
Cher went for a super embellished fabric to celebrate the theme 'Costumes of Royal India', in 1985.
Getty ImagesVictoria Beckham, 2006
'AngloMania' was the theme of the 2006 Met Gala and of course the Brits were in the house! VB stepped out in a bright red dress with strappy sandals.
Jamie McCarthyGigi Hadid, 2022
With almost every attendee complaining that they were cold on the 2022 red carpet, Gigi's Versace look was as practical as it was epic.
Jamie McCarthyBlake Lively, 2022
There may have been no Zendaya, no Rihanna and no Lady Gaga at the 2022 Met Gala, but thanks to Blake's epic Atelier Versace outfit transformation there was no shortage of drama.
Hailey Bieber, 2019
This baby pink thong-dress by Alexander Wang was one of the most risqué looks of the night, which is why we loved it so much.
Getty ImagesBianca Jagger, 1981
A show-stopping Bianca Jagger arrives at the 1981 Met Ball, themed 'The 18th Century Woman'.
Getty Images / REXBlake Lively, 2018
Always one to commit to a look, Blake's 2018 Versace look was one of her most statement yet. It's a big yes from us.
Kendall Jenner, 2019
Kendall went full-feather in 2019, and the almost flame-like impact of this Versace gown won over fashion critics all over the world.
Getty ImagesChristy Turlington, 1992
Christy Turlington looked like she was channeling Audrey Hepburn at the 1992 Met Ball.
Getty ImagesBeyoncé, 2016
Queen B stepped out wearing a romantic blush gown. Flawless.
Getty ImagesNaomi Campbell, 1995
Naomi Campbell might as well start giving new invitees of the Met Gala a masterclass on how to dress for the event (and make some jaws drop as well).
Getty ImagesGigi Hadid, 2017
While we loved Gigi's Tommy Hilfiger asymmetrical nude dress, her right leg was the real star of the show.
Getty ImagesElle Macpherson and Valentino, 1995
Who would have thought that someone could steal the spotlight from Valentino himself? Well, Elle Macpherson did it. At least she was wearing the designer's collection.
Getty ImagesKim Kardashian, 2013
How to forget this image? You can't, we can't. It's imprinted in everyone's memories. A very pregnant Kim Kardashian-West in her memorable Givenchy dress and gloves.
Getty ImagesLinda Evangelista and Kyle MacLachlan, 1996
Linda Evangelista and Kyle MacLachlan arrive at the The Costume Institute Gala honouring Christian Dior in 1996. Yep, Linda was wearing a sheer dress, years before it became a thing (hear that Kardashians?)
Getty ImagesDonatella & Gianni Versace, 1996
An unforgettable fashion image, Donatella and the late Gianni Versace at the Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum, in 1996. Her bondage look was just as iconic as her brother's satin shirt and metallic belt.
Getty ImagesBella Hadid, 2017
If this Alexander Wang number doesn't scream self-confidence, we don't know what does. SO into it.
Getty ImagesWhitney Houston and Bobby Brown, 1999
Talk about a memorable couple, Whitney Houston and singer Bobby Brown attended The Metropolitan Museum's Costume Institute Gala in 1999.
Getty ImagesCarey Mulligan, 2012
Carey Mulligan's super-sized sequin dress gave Beyoncé's a run for its money. Yep, we said it.
Getty ImagesLiv Tyler and Stella Mccartney, 1999
If there's a duo that absolutely nailed the 'Rock Style' theme of 1999, it was Liv Tyler and Stella McCartney, both wearing 'rock royalty' t-shirts. Epic.
Getty ImagesRihanna, 2014
And Rihanna pulled off one of the most gorgeous looks this red-carpet had seen to date, until...
Getty ImagesGwyneth Paltrow, 1999
A baby-faced Gwyneth Paltrow, didn't get the 'Rock Style' theme memo, but looked stunning in a blue lace dress anyway.
Rex FeaturesKate Moss, 2009
This is what we're talking about! Kate Moss showing how icons do it, at the Met Ball. It seemed the theme was made for her: 'The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion'.
Getty ImagesKim Kardashian and Kanye West, 2016
But, come 2016 and the couple took it home dressed head-to-toe in Balmain. They had the theme 'Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age Of Technology' down to a T.
Getty ImagesNaomi Campbell and Stefano Gabanna, 2001
We were serious about the masterclass. Look at Naomi, once again slaying the theme. She poses next to fashion designer Stefano Gabanna, who totally went for the rocker look.
Getty ImagesGisele Bündchen, 2003
Leave it to Brazilian bombshell Gisele Bündchen to put the party in Met Ball after-party. The model danced with designer Domenico Dolce, wearing a gorgeous embellished gown at the 2003 event.
Getty ImagesKendall Jenner, 2016
Kendall Jenner was also there representing the Balmain army in an intricate blue and white gown.
Getty ImagesScarlett Johansson, 2004
Scarlett Johansson at 2004's Costume Institute Gala 'Dangerous Liaisons'. Beautiful, in a yellow fitted satin gown.
Getty ImagesAlexander McQueen and Sarah Jessica Parker, 2006
But the most memorable looks were of course, Alexander McQueen and Sarah Jessica Parker, in matching designs. How can you expect these two to walk the red carpet together and it not be a fashion slam dunk?
Rihanna, 2018
If we told you the 2018 theme was 'Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination', that might explain this Maison Margiela by John Galliano look. Never one to overlook a theme, Rihanna couldn't have got it more right.
Getty ImagesBlake Lively, 2010
Who better than America's sweetheart, Blake Lively, to make paparazzi go nuts at the 'American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity' Met Gala.
Getty ImagesIman and David Bowie, 2007
One year after and Iman and David Bowie were giving SJP and McQueen a run for their money, in contrasting suits.
Getty ImagesKim Kardashian West and Kanye West, 2015
Kim Kardashian West looked stunning next to Kanye West, but unfortunatelly the night was owned by Queen B and Rih Rih.
Getty ImagesKatie Holmes and Tom Cruise, 2008
Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise didn't give the 2008 theme 'Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy' a fair go, but they sure looked good. Katie's full-on sequin dress was a showstopper.
Getty ImagesRihanna, 2009
Rihanna has been sporting the most daring Met Gala outfits since we can remember. Of course her yellow dress will never be forgotten, but this oversized suit was pretty damn cool.
Getty ImagesAlexa Chung, 2010
Alexa Chung showed up in a tailored suit at the Costume Institute Gala in 2010.
Getty ImagesRihanna, 2011
Rihanna nonchalantly stepped out in a black lace dress for the 'Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty' Costume Institute Gala, in 2011.
Getty ImagesBeyoncé, 2012
At 2012's 'Schiaparelli And Prada: Impossible Conversations' Costume Institute Gala, Beyoncé chose to interpret the theme through the contrasting colours of her gorgeous dress.
Getty ImagesEmma Watson, 2013
Emma Watson attended the Costume Institute Gala for the 'PUNK: Chaos to Couture' exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in May 2013. Doesn't she look killer?
Getty ImagesCara Delevingne, 2013
Cara Delevingne took it home. The event 'PUNK: Chaos to Couture' finally had someone that completely got the theme without overdoing it.
Getty ImagesSarah Jessica Parker, 2014
In a night that celebrates haute couture Sarah Jessica Parker stepped out in a dress that made for one of the Met Gala's most beautiful images. Her black and white Oscar de la Renta gown was iconic.
Getty ImagesBeyoncé, 2015
And just when we thought that night couldn't get any better leave it to Beyoncé, who arrived hours late, but slayed. Naturally.
Getty ImagesBeyoncé, 2015
Let's zoom in...
Getty ImagesBeyoncé, 2015
Yep, completely slaying. We can't get over this look.
Getty ImagesZayn Malik and Gigi Hadid, 2016
Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid took the theme very seriously by literally incorporating metal into their looks.
Getty ImagesMadonna, 2016
Yep, Madonna's boobs and behind were out at the 2016's event. We don't know what it had to do with 'Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology' but it certainly turned some heads.
Getty ImagesEmma Watson, 2016
Just take a moment to admire Emma Watson, channeling SJP in her black and white Calvin Klein ensemble that stole the night.
Getty ImagesHelen Lasichanh, 2017
One of the year's most brilliantly avant garde looks, Helen stole the night wearing Commes des Garçons.
Getty Images / REXGisele Bundchen, 2018
Ever elegant, Gisele stunned in silky Versace on the 2018 red carpet with one of those famous legs making quite an appearance.
Born and raised in Hong Kong, she earned her journalism degree in America and spent time at GLAMOUR US and People Magazine. She then returned to Hong Kong and became Tatler Asia's fashion director, where she ... Read More
