The Met Gala is almost here, and the pre-carpet spiral has officially started. This year’s “Costume Art” theme leans into fashion as art history, so before 2026 delivers its next viral moment, I went back to the best Met Gala looks of all time – the ones that didn’t just trend for a night but still get referenced like they belong in the archive.
1. Zendaya, 2024
Embed from Getty ImagesStarting strong with beautiful Zendaya. Maison Margiela by John Galliano, layered couture, that slightly undone finish… everything just clicks. One of the best Met Gala looks of all time, and it’s still just as good every time I revisit it.
2. Ciara, 2019
Embed from Getty ImagesCiara in Dundas said no to subtle and yes to emerald green drama. High-shine, full volume, hair doing its own thing… everything dialed up. Some looks aim for elegance, this one chose impact – and it still stands as an iconic red carpet moment.
3. Anok Yai, 2024
Embed from Getty ImagesAnok just had me in a chokehold again. Head-to-toe Swarovski, calibrated tailoring, glow turned up to max – this is the kind of Met Gala glamour that hijacks the group chat and stays pinned on every inspo board.
4. Rihanna, 2023
Embed from Getty ImagesFashionably late, Rihanna rolled in wearing camellia-laden Valentino and turned the whole carpet into background décor – sculptural, soft-drama couture that stole the finale slot like it was on the run of the show all along.
5. Blake Lively, 2022
Embed from Getty ImagesOne minute Blake’s in molten bronze, the next she’s channeling weathered copper – Versace’s tribute to NYC’s rooftops. That live color change pushed the look from pretty to unforgettable, cementing it as a classic carpet switch-up.
6. Doja Cat, 2023
Embed from Getty ImagesDoja Cat in Oscar de la Renta leaned all the way into performance. Choupette reference, prosthetics, full character… slightly confusing at first, then impossible to ignore. The kind of risk that keeps the Met interesting.
7. Zendaya, 2018
Embed from Getty ImagesJoan of Arc never looked this couture: Zendaya’s silver Versace exoskeleton, sharp bob, and no-nonsense stance turned the carpet into her battlefield. Every replay hits the same – proof a well-told fashion story ages like fine couture.
8. Beyoncé, 2014
Embed from Getty ImagesBeyoncé in Givenchy proved that precision can carry a whole look. Sheer detailing, intricate embellishment, perfect fit… nothing extra, just done right. A standout moment in red carpet fashion.
9. Solange, 2018
Embed from Getty ImagesSolange showed up in Iris van Herpen and flipped the script – sculptural folds, architectural volume, pure avant-garde couture. This red-carpet statement didn’t whisper for approval; it took the spotlight and dared everyone to keep up.
10. Gigi Hadid, 2025
Embed from Getty ImagesGigi ditched the drama for Miu Miu precision: architectural lines, smooth satin, nothing extra. Quiet-luxury energy so strong it keeps resurfacing whenever “refined Met Gala style” hits the feed.
Conclusion
Every year the Met Gala delivers new moments, but these are the ones that actually last. With 2026 almost here, expectations are high. And let’s be honest… at least one new look is about to take over everything.
