The Most Unforgettable Met Gala Outfits in History
If there's one evening known for showcasing stunning fashion, unforgettable moments, and just the right touch of red carpet drama, it's the Met Gala. Each year, I find myself scrolling endlessly, examining every feather, train, and sheer illusion in pursuit of one challenging question: What are the greatest Met Gala outfits in history? Let's face it. The title of "best dressed Met Gala attendee ever" isn't merely a label. It's a topic of discussion. It's Cher in her provocative Bob Mackie ensemble, Princess Diana challenging royal fashion norms, and Rihanna achieving fashion royalty (multiple times, I might add). The best dressed moments on the Met Gala red carpet transcend clothing; they encapsulate cultural evolution, bold choices, and those extraordinary looks that immediately etch themselves into fashion history.
This perspective makes this list both enjoyable and highly subjective. From the unapologetic extravagance of the '80s to the sleek minimalism of the '90s, and the audacious styles of the 2000s, as well as the meme-friendly and thematic ensembles of the 2010s and 2020s, the Met Gala has gifted us countless style highlights throughout the decades. While they might not appeal to everyone, they are truly unforgettable.
Consider this your ultimate, passionately opinionated, fashion editor–endorsed guide to the best dressed at the Met Gala across all eras—look by iconic look. Let's dive in.
What is the 2026 Met Gala theme? According to Vogue, the official theme for the 2026 Met Gala is Costume Art. This theme directly relates to the Costume Institute's spring exhibition, which examines how clothing and the adorned body have been represented throughout thousands of years of art history—linking actual garments to paintings, sculptures, and more.
As for what we can expect to see on the steps, the dress code adds an element of excitement. For 2026, the theme is Fashion Is Art, a variant that complements the Costume Institute's exhibition.
When is the 2026 Met Gala? Save the date: The Met Gala 2026 is scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026. As usual, it takes place on the first Monday in May, which is known as fashion's biggest night.
Where can I watch the Met Gala 2026 red carpet? If your invitation to the 2026 Met Gala went astray (same here!), the next best option is to catch the Met Gala red carpet live. Vogue will host the official livestream at 6 p.m. ET, available on its website, YouTube, and TikTok.
For those who want expert commentary on the fashion—really, the main reason we're tuning in—don't worry! Who What Wear will be live reacting on our social media with breakdowns of the best dressed and all the critical moments.
**'80s**
- **WHO:** Diane von Furstenberg
**WHAT:** Attending the 1984 Met Gala (Image credit: Getty Images)
- **WHO:** Cher
**WHAT:** Attending the 1985 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Bob Mackie dress (Image credit: Getty Images)
- **WHO:** Diana Vreeland
**WHAT:** Attending the 1980 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Saint Laurent outfit
- **WHO:** Diana Ross
**WHAT:** Attending the 1981 Met Gala
- **WHO:** Bianca Jagger
**WHAT:** Attending the 1981 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Dior gown
- **WHO:** Iman
**WHAT:** Attending the 1981 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Calvin Klein dress
**'90s**
- **WHO:** Naomi Campbell
**WHAT:** Attending the 1995 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Versace dress
- **WHO:** Kate Moss
**WHAT:** Attending the 1995 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Calvin Klein dress
- **WHO:** Christy Turlington
**WHAT:** Attending the 1992 Met Gala
- **WHO:** Cher
**WHAT:** Attending the 1997 Met Gala
- **WHO:** Anna Wintour
**WHAT:** Attending the 1996 Met Gala
- **WHO:** Chloë Sevigny
**WHAT:** Attending the 1998 Met Gala
- **WHO:** Miuccia Prada
**WHAT:** Attending the 1998 Met Gala
- **WHO:** Princess Diana
**WHAT:** Attending the 1996 Met Gala
**WEAR:** Dior gown
- **WHO:** André Leon Talley and Anna Wintour
**WHAT:** Attending the 1999 Met Gala
**2000s**
- **WHO:** Diana Ross
**WHAT:** Attending the
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The Most Unforgettable Met Gala Outfits in History
We're analyzing the best-dressed attendees of the Met Gala throughout history, from the '80s to 2025, in anticipation of the first Monday in May.