Well, the 2023 Met Gala came and went and, despite all the controversy leading up to the big day, we didn’t see that many celebs boycotting. (More on that later.) What we did see, however, was what we’ve come to expect from fashion’s biggest night. Couture, camp, and a fair bit of craziness.
With that said, it’s time to play everyone’s favorite game: armchair fashion critic. Here are the best, worst, and wildest from the 2023 Met Gala.
Met Gala Fashion Trends
As always, I like to start these fashion police posts with a look at some of the commonalities. Every red carpet event has a few stand out trends – some surprising, others not so much. Either way, it’s fun to check them out.
1. Birds of a Feather
This one surprised me. A lot of the gowns from last night featured feathers, and that was an interesting detail. I know Karl did a lot with fur, but maybe feathers were a thing for him too.
My favorite, though, was Gisele. Absolute knockout. Nicole Kidman is a close second, though.
2. Modest Midriffs
Cutouts are not a new trend, especially on the red carpet. But I loved how many of the midriff baring gowns were both sexy and modest at the same time. Olivia Wilde, in particular, was able to show some skin while also keeping it classy.
Margot Robbie took a few more risks with her gown, but the added shoulder sash kept it from being too risque.
3. The Bride Wore Chanel
OK, so, was it just me, or did last night’s carpet look like a couture bridal collection? SOOO many stars looked like they were getting married, not going to a fundraising gala.
To be honest, it wasn’t my favorite trend. The gowns are stunning, as are the women in them, I just don’t love wedding gowns on the red carpet.
4. Black and White
Alright, now onto another popular color choice—black. There were a few black dresses on the carpet, but there were even more black and white gowns.
So many, in fact, that I had to split this trend up into three subcategories.
a)…and Big all Over
With poofy sleeves and big skirts, there was a certain vintage feel to these garments.
b)…and Showing Skin
I’m a huge fan of J.Lo and Vanessa Hudgens. Both are giving classic beauty mixed with sexy siren.
c)…and Strikingly Unique
Taking the timeless elegance of a black and white gown and making it new and exciting is a huge feat. Props to the ones who did it well. Anne Hathaway, in particular, impressed me. Liu Wen’s gown, with it’s deceptively simple, yet intricate design, was also one I absolutely adored.
5. Pretty in Pink
Pink was everywhere last night. Pale pink and satin was an especially popular choice. Naomi Campbell was a standout for this one.
6. Tastefully Nude
Nude is always in, whether that’s a nearly naked dress a la Amanda Seyfried or one with pale gold fabric, like Yara Shahidi
7. Pearls Galore
Given the Karl Lagerfeld inspiration, it’s no surprise that we saw a ton of pearl detailing last night. After all, Chanel and pearls go hand in hand.
I’m a huge fan of Karlie Kloss – the simple gown, the belly bump, the added pearls. Everything about it is perfection.
Met Gala Staples
Just a few things we see every year at the Met Gala.
1. The KarJenners
Despite rumors of a Kardashian-free Met, the KarJenners were out in full force. All of them look amazing, too, but I’m crowning Kim the winner with this pearl-encrusted ensemble.
Kendall is a close second, though, because the girl took a risk.
2. The Statement Makers
It wouldn’t be the Met without a few statement making pieces. Anok Yai is my absolute favorite – just perfection. Cardi B. always kills it and Florence looked stunning as well. This is the right way to take a risk.
3. The Ones Who Go Over-the-Top
Then there are the ones who go a bit too far. I will say, though, I do love Doja Cat’s attire, but Jared Leto and Lil Nas X looked more camp than couture.
4. The Royalty
It’s Anna Wintour’s show and the rest of us are just along for the ride. Dua Lipa also acted as one of the co-chairs this year, and she looked unbelievable last night. One of the night’s best dressed.
But, of course, the reigning queen of the Met is still Rhianna. She was late to the carpet but did not disappoint.
5. The Wardrobe Changes
Ah yes, the on-the-carpet wardrobe changes. There are at least a few every year. Again, we’ve got RiRi, showing us how it’s done. Janelle Monae wasn’t my favorite look, but I’ll give her credit for taking a risk.
Best and Worst
The Worst
It hurts my heart to put Janelle Monae on this list, but this just wasn’t it.
…some more Worst Dressed
Allison Williams was at least on theme, but it just didn’t work.
The Best
Michaela Coel managed to take a risk while also looking elegant AF. Props to her. I was also a huge fan of Sydney Sweeney’s look and Lily Aldridge with her Old Hollywood glamour.
…More Standouts
Sometimes simple is the way to go. And these gowns caught my eye despite being relatively safe for the Met.
4 Comments
Wow – what a wide range of attire! I love Anne Hathaway’s Dress as well as Mindy’s! Not much of a fan of the really big poofy dresses….
It’s definitely one of the more eccentric trends!
I was in love with Jeannie Kim and Penelope Cruz. I feel like Usber should be on the worst dressed because he look like an uncle in the wrong place.
Ha, I liked Penelope’s too, but it was also SUPER bridal