55 Best Met Gala Beauty Looks Of All Time
Vallika Shukla
Updated At 06 Sep 23
The Met Gala is one of the most highly anticipated events in the fashion calendar, where celebrities and fashion icons showcase their most daring and avant-garde looks. Over the years, celebrities and fashion icons have graced the Met Gala red carpet with their stunning hair and makeup creations, setting trends and pushing boundaries in the world of beauty.
From bold and avant-garde to classic and glamorous, the Met Gala has given us some of the most memorable beauty moments in history. In this blog post, we will be taking a closer look at the 55 best Met Gala beauty looks of all time, celebrating the artistry and creativity that has made this event a true showcase of beauty and fashion.
55 Best Met Gala Beauty Looks Of All Time
1. Penelope Cruz
The Met Gala is the biggest night in fashion and every year, celebrities turn heads with their stunning outfits and impeccable beauty looks. In 2023, Penelope Cruz stole the show with her breathtaking beauty look that perfectly complemented her glamorous gown. From her flawless skin to her perfectly styled hair, Cruz's look epitomized elegance and sophistication. This year’s theme was "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty" to honor the legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld. Penelope gave a perfect bridal vibe with her gown and smokey-eyed makeup paired with nude lipstick, courtesy of Charlotte Tilbury.
2. Emily Ratajkowski
In 2023, Emily Ratajkowski stole the show with her stunning Met Gala beauty look. From her flawless makeup to her show-stopping hairstyle, she embodied the theme of the event and left everyone in awe. Emily paired smokey eyes with nude lip shade for her makeup and her short bangs are sure to be an inspiration for Gen Z. Along with that she added a velvet bow which completed her look in honor of Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel.
3. Rita Ora
Rita Ora’s look for the Met Gala 2023 was on another level! It was hands down one of the best beauty looks of the entire event. The theme was " Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty " and Rita totally nailed it. She rocked a stunning, futuristic makeup look with a bold smokey eye and a pop of nude color on her lips. But the real showstopper was her Nails. Her nails were designed to look like a “deconstructed Chanel necklace” and it totally stole the show.
4. Kaia Gerber
The Met Gala is one of the most highly anticipated events in the fashion and beauty industry. Every year, celebrities and fashion icons come together to showcase their most avant-garde and creative looks. And among the many stunning beauty looks of the night, Kaia Gerber's Met Gala look stood out as one of the best for 2022. With her flawless makeup, daring hairstyle, and impeccable sense of style, Gerber truly captured the essence of this year's theme-“ In America: An Anthology of Fashion- Gilded Glamour” and left a lasting impression on everyone who saw her.
5. Vanessa Hudgens
As celebrities and designers come together at Met Gala to showcase their most extravagant and innovative looks, each year, attendees strive to make a statement with their fashion choices and show-stopping beauty looks. In 2022, Vanessa Hudgens stole the show with her stunning Met Gala look- a floor-length black gown and subtle glam makeup, making it one of the best beauty looks of the year. From her flawless makeup to her intricate twisted updo hairstyle, every detail was meticulously crafted to create a truly unforgettable appearance.
6. Isabelle Boemeke
Among the many stunning and creative looks, Isabelle Boemeke's Met Gala look stood out as one of the best beauty looks of the event. With her daring and innovative approach to makeup and hairstyling, Isabelle captured the essence of the theme and wowed the attendees and viewers alike. Isabelle went for a graphic look for her eyes, golden accessories, and matching funky nails. The Met Gala is known for its extravagant fashion and beauty looks, and the year 2022 was no exception.
7. Lupita Nyong’o
The Met Gala is known for showcasing incredible fashion and beauty looks every year, and Lupita Nyong’o's appearance at the 2021 event was no exception. The theme was – “In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion”. With her stunning and unique ensemble, she stood out as one of the best Met Gala looks of the year. From her bold makeup to her intricate hairstyle, every element of her look was meticulously crafted to make a statement. The denim hues were matched to the makeup as well and the hairstylist created a unique hairstyle to suit the event.
8. Lil Nas X
Every year, the Met Gala brings together the biggest names in the fashion and entertainment industries for a night of extravagant fashion statements. Among the countless stunning beauty looks that graced the red carpet at the 2021 Met Gala, one stood out as truly exceptional –Lil Nas X. He had one of the top Meta Gala looks designed by Donatella Versace. With perfectly done hair and perfect eyeshadow, The rapper and fashion icon wowed with his Met Gala look, captivating the crowd and stealing the spotlight.
9. Hunter Schafer
Among the stunning array of celebrities on the red carpet, one look stood out as one of the best of the night: Hunter Schafer's Met Gala beauty look. The Euphoria star and fashion trailblazer dazzled with her bold and artistic makeup, perfectly capturing the theme of the event. The details of Schafer’s show-stopping makeup were beautiful and scary at the same time and it was truly one of the best Met Gala beauty looks of the year 2021.
10. Ciara
The Met Gala is known for its extravagant fashion and bold beauty choices, and in 2019, Ciara's look was one of the standout moments of the entire event. With her flawless makeup, stunning hair, and eye-catching ensemble, Ciara's Met Gala look quickly became one of the best beauty looks of the night. Ciara's show-stopping appearance had the perfect outfit and smokey eye makeup, paired with huge hair inspired by Diana Ross. This Ciara Met Gala look deserves to be recognized as one of the best Met Gala looks of the year.
11. Yara Shahidi
Get ready to be inspired by Yara Shahidi's show-stopping glamour! The annual Met Gala is known for its extravagant fashion and stunning beauty looks, and in 2019, Yara Shahidi stole the show with her incredible makeup and hair. From her flawless skin to her bold and colorful eyeshadow, Shahidi's look was undeniably one of the best of the night. All the elements of her Met Gala beauty look stood out among the rest with the amazing retro bouffant hairstyle.
12. Harry Styles
The 2019 Met Gala brought together the biggest names in fashion, film, and music for a night of extravagant red carpet-looks. And in 2019, Harry Styles stole the show with his stunning Met Gala beauty look. From his amazing black outfit from Gucci to his stunning pearl earrings, Harry’s look was hailed as one of the best of the night. Harry Styles’ Met Gala look deserves a spot on the list of the best Met Gala beauty looks of all time.
13. Rihanna
Rihanna has consistently delivered jaw-dropping style moments year after year at the Met Gala events. In 2018, Rihanna's Met Gala look was undeniably one of the best beauty looks of the night which was on spot the theme- “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination." With her daring and creative approach to makeup and hair, Rihanna never fails to make a statement on the red carpet. From her intricate bejeweled headpiece to her stunning makeup choices, every detail of Rihanna's look was meticulously crafted to perfection.
14. Troye Sivan
The Met Gala is not only a star-studded event where celebrities showcase their fashion choices, but it also serves as a platform for stunning beauty looks. In 2018, Troye Sivan wowed the crowd with his ethereal and glamorous appearance. His Met Gala look was undoubtedly one of the best of the night, leaving everyone mesmerized. Troye Sivan carried a Valentino mesh outfit and makeup that complimented the angelic look.
15. Lily Collins
In 2018, Lily Collins stole the show with her breathtaking Met Gala look, which was widely regarded as one of the best beauty looks of the night among other celebrities and fashion enthusiasts gather to showcase their unique and extravagant styles. With striking makeup by Fiona Stiles and a stunning hairstyle by Gregory Russell, Collins effortlessly combined elegance and edginess, leaving everyone in awe with her gothic look, totally marking the theme. Lily Collins's unforgettable Met Gala look has retained its status as one of the best beauty looks in Met Gala history.
16. Priyanka Chopra
At the Met Gala 2017, Priyanka Chopra graced the red carpet with a look that left everyone in awe. The theme for the 2017 Met Gala event was- “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons: Art of the In-Between” and Chopra’s Met Gala look was hailed as one of the best Met Gala looks of the entire event. From her flawless makeup to the intricate details of her hairstyle, every aspect of Chopra's look exuded elegance and sophistication. Get ready to be inspired by Priyanka Chopra's stunning Met Gala appearance!
17. Rihanna
Rihanna has unquestionably the best looks in the Met Gala events. No matter what the theme is, Rihanna rocks it anyhow. The 2017 Met Gala theme- Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons: Art of the In-Between” was yet again rocked by Rihanna with her gorgeous goldenrod Guo Pei gown with complementing blushy makeup and hairstyle. Rihanna’s gorgeous Met Gala look stood out as one of the top beauty looks of the year.
18. Cara Delevingne
One of the standout moments from the 2017 Met Gala was Cara Delevingne's look. She managed to turn heads and steal the spotlight with her bold and creative beauty choices. From her striking metallic silver hair to her intricate and vibrant makeup, Cara's look was truly one of the best Met Gala beauty looks of the year. For Cara Delevingne's show-stopping look, she wore a Chanel suit and body paint and it definitely deserves a spot on the list of the best Met Gala looks of 2017.
19. Beyonce
The Met Gala is known for its extravagant fashion and beauty looks, and in 2016, Beyonce stole the show with her stunning Met Gala look. Her intricate and bold ensemble perfectly captured the theme of the event- “Manus vs. Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology” and showcased her unique style and creativity. Beyonce wore her hair in a simple middle part and the highlight of her makeup was the grey winged eyeshadow. From her flawless makeup to her elaborate hairstyle, Beyonce's Met Gala look was truly one of the best beauty looks of the year
20. Kristen Stewart
In 2016, Kristen Stewart stole the show with her stunning Met Gala look. Her edgy and glamorous style was praised by fashion critics and fans alike, making it one of the best beauty looks of the entire event. With her metallic eyeshadow and messy updo, Kristen decided to take things up a notch for the “Manus vs. Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology” themed event. From her bold makeup choices to her unique hairstyle, Kristen Stewart proved that she is a true fashion icon.
21. Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s 2016 Met Gala look is cindered as one of the top Met Gala looks of all time. The dress and the makeup were just on point with the “Manus vs. Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology” theme. When everyone thought no one can style black lipstick for the event Katy Perry decided to prove all of us wrong. Perry wore black lipstick with blue eye makeup and carried her hair high. Apart from the makeup, the bunch of keys on her dress stole the show as well.
22. Cara Delevingne
Let’s delve into why Cara Delevingne's Met Gala look was hailed as one of the best beauty looks of the year, inspiring fashion enthusiasts around the world. In 2015, model and actress Cara Delevingne stunned everyone with her unforgettable Met Gala look, earning her a spot on numerous "best dressed" lists. Cara edged the 2015 Met Gala theme- 'China: Through the looking glass' with her beautiful look. From her fake flowery dramatic tattoos to the dramatic smokey eyes, Cara's beauty look perfectly embodied the theme of the night and showcased her fearless style.
23. Lily Collins
Lily Collins is yet again on the list of achieving the best Met Gala looks. Collins carried a very simplistic and minimalist makeup look for the 2015 Met Gala- 'China: Through the looking glass' theme. Collins’ look was inspired by Audrey Hepburn and she totally aced the look. The Met Gala is known for its extravagant fashion and beauty looks, with celebrities making bold statements on the red carpet, which is exactly what Lily Collins did with her amazing look.
24. Dakota Johnson
As every celebrity showcased their best Met Gala looks, Dakota Johnson’s beauty look stood apart from all, as she rocked a bold and elegant hairstyle and makeup that perfectly complemented her outfit. In fact, many fashion critics and enthusiasts hailed Johnson's Met Gala look as one of the best beauty looks of the entire event. Dakota’s tousled bob was the highlight of her look apart from her cat-eye makeup. The Met Gala is known for bringing out the most glamorous and daring fashion looks, and in 2015, Dakota Johnson stole the show with her stunning ensemble.
25. Beyonce
If you are wondering who aced the 2014 Met Gala look, then you have the answer here. Beyonce had one of the best Met Gala looks for the 2014 Met Gala, themed- “Charles James: Beyond Fashion”. Queen Bey’s extravagant style was achieved by the hard work of her makeup artist- Francesca Tolot, who helped her ace the look. Tolot says- "The strong lip color and natural eye helped achieve the exact look we wanted", which totally summarizes her amazing Met Gala beauty look.
26. Emma Stone
Get ready to be inspired by Emma Stone's unforgettable Met Gala moment! The Met Gala is known for its extravagant fashion and breathtaking beauty looks, and in 2014, Emma Stone stole the show with her stunning appearance. With a thick braid and shiny bronze makeup, every detail of Stone's look was on point, making her one of the best Met Gala beauty looks of the year. The makeup, dress, and hairstyle, every element that made Stone's look stand out continues to be a favorite among fashion enthusiasts.
27. Karlie Kloss
The 2014 Met Gala inspired by the Charles James was one of the most highly anticipated events in the fashion and beauty world, and celebrities pulled out all the stops to make a statement on the red carpet. In the same event, supermodel Karlie Kloss wowed everyone with her stunning beauty look, which is still talked about to this day. Her flawless makeup was done by Brigitte Reiss Anderson to suit the modern-retro look. Kloss's Met Gala look was undeniably one of the best of the year. Kloss’ look was one of the best Met Gala looks and it stood out among the sea of glamorous looks from that unforgettable night.
28. Emily Blunt
The Met Gala 2013 demanded the best out of the best to suit the theme- “Punk: Chaos to Couture” and became one of the biggest nights in the fashion calendar, where celebrities and fashion icons came together to showcase their most extravagant and innovative looks. In 2013, one star who stole the show with her beautiful look was Emily Blunt. Her stunning hair and makeup perfectly complemented her elegant ensemble, making her one of the best Met Gala beauty looks of the year.
29. Kristen Stewart
Who else can carry such an experimental style better than Kristen Stewart? Stewart is known to experiment with her looks and the Met Gala 2013 theme required the same from everyone. Without surprise, Kristen Stewart’s look was one of the best Met Gala looks of the punk-themed red carpet event. For this event, Stewart carried herself in red, from her dress to her makeup, everything just perfectly complimented her beautiful features. However, the red eyeshadow stole the spotlight, making her beauty look one of the top Met Gala looks of all time.
30. Emmy Rossum
Emmy Rossum’s look for the 2013 night was a little different from others. Rossum combined beauty and elegance together to create one of the best Met Gala looks of all time. The “Punk: Chaos to Couture” was ruled by Emmy Rossum by her hairstyle and her makeup along with her pretty gown and lace manicure. The faux and the lace manicure were the highlights of her look.
31. Jessica Alba
The 2012 Met Gala event was ruled by Jessica Alba with her amazing look on the red carpet. Out of all the celebrities present at the Met Gala 2012, all eyes were stuck on the beautiful look of Jessica Alba at that event. The 2012 Met Gala event followed the theme- “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations” and all celebrities wore their best outfits keeping the theme in mind. Jessica Alba wore her hair in a side part that complimented her off-shoulder outfit, making her look one of the top Met Gala looks of all time.
32. Lana Del Ray
Lana Del Ray does not just rule the music industry, she also ruled the Met Gala 2012 event, themed: “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations”. With her outstanding outfit and makeup, Lana made her red carpet appearance one of the best Met Gala looks of all time. Her lush brown hair and her dark lipstick just stole the show. Everything about her makeup just complimented her outfit making it stand out from the others.
33. Lea Michele
One of the best Met Gala looks also comes from Lea Michele who looked absolutely gorgeous in nude lipstick. Of the theme- “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations”, Lea Michele just rocked the red carpet event with her absolutely stunning look. Lea Michele’s short hairstyle and nude lipstick stole the spotlight as they were paired with the absolutely gorgeous blue dress. Michele’s 2012 Met Gala look is still considered one of the best Met Gala looks of all time.
34. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez rocked the 2011 Met Gala look with her elegance and beauty. The theme for the 2011 Met Gala event was- “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations” which was perfectly understood by Jennifer Lopez. Jennifer Lopez wore everything red, from her outfit to her makeup. Lopez carried a slick back bun and red lip shade to accentuate her facial features. The red dress Jennifer wore was also one of the most talked about outfits of the Met Gala 2011.
35. Rihanna
Rihanna had yet again one of the top Met Gala looks of all time at the Met Gala 2011 event. Everything about Rihanna’s look was just perfect and was loved by everyone. Rihanna wore her hair in a long red side braid that complimented her pink lips and her black outfit perfectly. Out of all the celebrities present at the 2011 Met Gala event, Rihanna’s beauty look was sure to steal everyone’s eye and become one of the most talked about Met Gala beauty looks.
36. Chanel Iman
Chanel Iman completely understood and rocked the 2011 Met Gala event which was following the theme- “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations”. Met Gala is one such event where everyone showcases their fashion and beauty sense and we are sure that Chanel Iman has got one such talent. Iman wore red lipstick with her white outfit and we are sure only Chanel Iman could have carried it this well that it became one of the best Met Gala looks of all time.
37. Diane Kruger
The 2010 Met Gala had the theme- “American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity” and Diane Kruger decided to be the best among all the celebrities present at the red carpet event. Diane’s looked absolutely stunning and elegant in the all-white full-sleeved gown and a sleek hairstyle. The hairstyle and the makeup accentuated the already amazing facial features of Diane which at the end complimented the stunning white gown. Diane’s look is sure one of the best Met Gala looks of all time.
38. Doutzen Kroes
Another top Met Gala look that is also the most talked about is Doutzen Kroes. When everybody thought that the Met Gala event could not get any better, Doutzen stepped in to raise the bar. Doutzen’s blue dress and retro hairstyle has inspired a lot of designer throughout the ages. The net sleeves of the dress were the highlight of her dress which were gracefully carried by Doutzen at the Met Gala event.
39. Kate Moss
We can assure you, the 2009 Met Gala look by Kate Moss was one of the best Met Gala looks of all time. The theme of the 2009 Met Gala event was- The Model As Muse: Embodying Fashion”, and Kate Moss looked the best of them all. All the celebrities looked amazing but Kate Moss’ look was something different. Kate Moss wore the absolutely stunning Marc Jacobs headscarf that matched her metallic dress. Even her makeup was to the point and matched her dress and the headscarf.
40. Katy Perry
Katy Perry yet again ruled the Met Gala event with the best hairstyle and outfit. Perry’s attire was stunning and surprising because no one thought that anyone could pull off the round bob with choppy bags this gracefully. The smokey eye makeup was a cherry on top that complimented her blue dress, however, the hairstyle definitely stole the show. Everything looked absolutely perfect and gorgeous on Katy Perry and her 2009 red carpet look became one of the best Met Gala looks over the year.
41. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez sure knows how to steal the show. Her look for the 2008 Met Gala event with the theme- “Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy” was absolutely eye-catching. She looked amazing with short curly hair and nude makeup, that complimented her stunning gown. The intricate detailing, bold silhouette, and impeccable tailoring showcased her exceptional fashion sense and eye for detail.
42. Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham's iconic style has always been in a league of its own, but her Met Gala look in 2008 truly took our breath away. As the theme was "Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy," Beckham effortlessly embraced the challenge and delivered one of the best Met Gala looks of all time. Dressed in a stunning white gown, Victoria Beckham perfectly embodied the essence of a modern-day superhero. Beckham’s high hair and red lipstick were cherry on top.
43. Cate Blanchett
Not only did Cate Blanchett embrace the 2007 Met Gala theme- “Poiret: King of Fashion” flawlessly, but she also proved that true fashion is not just about following trends - it's about creating your own unique statement. Her Met Gala look became an instant inspiration for aspiring fashion enthusiasts around the world. She exuded confidence with every step on that red carpet, leaving onlookers in awe of her impeccable style.
44. Lucy Liu
When we think of the best Met Gala looks throughout history, Lucy Liu's appearance in 2007 undoubtedly stands out. Her ability to fuse glamour with creativity showcases why she is considered a true style icon. The 2007 Met Gala theme- “Poiret: King of Fashion” was aced by Lucy Liu The purple dress was a perfect fit for Lucy and she rocked it with minimalist makeup and diamond earrings.
45. Naomi Campbell
Let's take a trip down memory lane to the 2006 Met Gala, where fashion icon Naomi Campbell graced the red carpet with an unforgettable look that still resonates with us today. With the theme "Anglomania: Tradition and Transgression in British Fashion," Campbell truly stole the show. Dressed to perfection, Campbell's choice of outfit for the evening was nothing short of remarkable with perfect the perfect winged liner.
46. Elle Macpherson
The 2005 Met Gala was ruled easily by Elle Macpherson for the theme- “The House of Chanel”. She effortlessly blended everything Chanel did and looked absolutely stunning overall, embodying the essence of Chanel fashion. Her attention to detail was impeccable, as every element of her ensemble exuded elegance and sophistication. It is no surprise that it is often regarded as one of the best Met Gala looks in history.
47. Amber Valletta
Amber Valletta’s look at the 2004 Met Gala has become iconic, serving as a benchmark for all future attendees striving to make a statement on fashion's grandest stage. The 2004 Met Gala theme- “Dangerous Liaisons: Fashion and Furniture in the 18th Century”, was perfectly resembled by Valletta’s extremely high hair. The synergy between Valletta's fearless attitude and her sartorial choices created a masterpiece on that memorable night.
48. Iman
If we were to turn back the clock to 2003's Met Gala, one standout look would certainly steal the spotlight - Iman's interpretation of the theme "Goddess: The Classical Mode." Undoubtedly, she delivered one of the most mesmerizing and talked-about ensembles of the night. Iman effortlessly embodied the essence of a divine goddess with a white silk gown and white flowers in her hair, leaving attendees and fashion enthusiasts in awe.
49. Caroline Kennedy
Caroline Kennedy’s Met Gala appearance in 2003- "Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years” will forever be etched in our memories as one of the best looks ever graced that illustrious red carpet. It is no surprise that her captivating look became an instant sensation among both critics and admirers. Her ability to embody the theme with such unmatched flair is a testament to her understanding of artistry and creativity.
50. Jennifer Love Hewitt
When it comes to selecting an unforgettable Met Gala ensemble, there is no doubt that Jennifer’s iconic look continues to be revered as one for the ages. Jennifer’s boots, her perfect makeup, and her bangs were worth getting inspired from. And while subsequent years may bring new themes and interpretations, her 1999 rock-inspired aesthetic remains an enduring symbol of sartorial excellence at its finest.
51. Gisele Bundchen
Get ready to be blown away by the impeccable style of none other than Gisele Bündchen at the Met Gala in 1999! With a theme of "Rock style," Gisele undoubtedly stole the show with her jaw-dropping looks and fashion-forward choices. In a sea of glamorous celebrities, Gisele's Met Gala look truly stood out as one of the best. Her ability to effortlessly blend edginess and elegance was unparalleled. From head to toe, she exuded confidence and rocked every outfit with absolute grace.
52. Liv Tyler
One memorable look from Met Gala was of Liv Tyler in 1998 with the theme- “Cubism and Fashion”. Tyler had the best look of that night where she wore her daring black dress paired with a short hairstyle with choppy bangs and a statement red lipstick. The way she owned that cubism and fashion vibe while maintaining her signature timeless beauty was simply awe-inspiring.
53. Madonna
For the 1997 Met Gala, the one who ruled the event was simply Madonna. Madonna’s incredible sense of style and knack for taking risks truly sealed her place as the queen of "Gianni Versace"-themed event at the 1997 Met Gala. Her looks not only embodied the spirit of the theme but also solidified her status as an iconic fashion icon.
54. Princess Diana
Get ready to relive one of the most iconic moments in Met Gala history - Princess Diana's unbeatable fashion choices! Her choice of the best Met Gala look in 1996 showcased her ability to blend sophistication with contemporary trends. The dress itself was a true work of art - an exquisite design that oozed glamour and captured the essence of Christian Dior's signature style. Every seam perfectly tailored, every accessory carefully selected - Princess Diana epitomized elegance from head to toe.
55. Naomi Campbell
Yet again Naomi Campbell had one of the best Met Gala looks of all times in 1995. Known for her timeless elegance and impeccable taste, Campbell's Met Gala look was nothing short of perfection. With every detail carefully curated and flawlessly executed, she left a lasting impression that still resonates today. From the moment she stepped onto the red carpet, all eyes were on her breathtaking ensemble.