From Marilyn Monroe’s sheer sparkles to Kim Kardashian’s headline-grabbing designs, these dresses shocked, amazed, and redefined fashion history at the Met Gala.
The Met Gala, often called the "Oscars of fashion," has witnessed some of the most daring, controversial, and unforgettable dresses in history. Each year, celebrities, designers, and fashion houses compete to outdo one another, interpreting the event's annual theme in bold, surprising ways.
1. Marilyn Monroe’s Sheer Dress (1962)
Though technically not worn at the Met Gala, Monroe’s rhinestone-studded "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" gown set a high standard for provocative red-carpet attire and inspired future Met Gala looks.
2. Cher’s Bob Mackie Feather Gown (1974)
Cher made waves with her revealing feathered and beaded gown designed by Bob Mackie, cementing her status as a fearless fashion icon. The look has influenced many later Met Gala appearances.
3. Madonna’s Rebel Heart Outfit (2016)
For the "Manus x Machina" theme, Madonna wore a Givenchy ensemble featuring sheer panels, lace, and exposed lingerie. Critics called it “too revealing,” but the pop queen defended it as a statement about ageism and body positivity.
4. Kim Kardashian’s “Wet Look” by Thierry Mugler (2019)
Kim Kardashian’s skin-tight, crystal-dripping dress gave the illusion of her being drenched in water. The tiny waist and impossibly exaggerated proportions sparked debates on beauty standards and body modification in fashion.
5. Rihanna’s Yellow Guo Pei Gown (2015)
Rihanna stunned the crowd in a golden yellow, fur-trimmed cape by Chinese designer Guo Pei for the “China: Through the Looking Glass” theme. The dramatic train drew memes but is now hailed as one of the event's most iconic moments.
6. Jared Leto’s Head-Toting Look (2019)
Leto arrived carrying a model of his own severed head while wearing Gucci. Creepy or genius? The look sparked endless online discussion and was one of the most photographed moments of the night.
7. Billy Porter’s Sun God Arrival (2019)
Porter made an unforgettable entrance carried by six shirtless men while dressed as an Egyptian Sun God, complete with gold wings. Theatrical and empowering, his look embodied the Met Gala’s flair for the dramatic.
8. Lady Gaga’s Four-Look Reveal (2019)
Lady Gaga peeled off four complete outfits on the red carpet in a performance art-style reveal for the "Camp" theme. Each layer—from an oversized pink cape to lingerie—kept audiences guessing and cameras flashing.
9. Cardi B’s Red Thom Browne Gown (2019)
Cardi B’s feathered, jewel-studded red gown was grand and controversial due to its extravagant train and heavy symbolism linked to femininity and power.
10. Katy Perry’s Chandelier and Burger Looks (2019)
Perry arrived as a walking chandelier and later changed into a literal hamburger costume—one of the most playful and bewildering double looks in Met Gala history.
Why These Dresses Matter
These garments did more than make headlines—they challenged norms, broke taboos, and pushed the boundaries of self-expression and art in fashion. Whether lauded or criticized, each dress added a layer of legacy to the ever-evolving story of the Met Gala.
