15 Unforgettable Met Gala Moments When Fashion Truly Became Art

When it comes to fashion’s biggest night, the Met Gala is more than just a red carpet — it’s a canvas for artistic expression, theatrical flair, and boundary-pushing style. Each year, celebrities and designers rise (or sometimes stumble) to the challenge of interpreting a unique theme set by the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While some attendees play it safe with subtle nods, others dive in headfirst, crafting unforgettable looks that not only honor the theme but redefine what it means to dress with purpose and imagination. From the avant-garde to the downright surreal, these 15 Met Gala ensembles didn’t just follow the theme — they elevated it.

15. Princess Diana (1996)

14. Cher (1985)

13. Blake Lively (2022)

12. Aubrey Plaza (2023)

11. Iman (2021)

10. Nicole Kidman (2024)

9. Cardi B (2022)

8. Kim Kardashian (2019)

7. Billie Eilish (2022)

6. Amber Valletta (2023)

5. Salma Hayek (2023)

4. Harris Reed (2024)

3. Jennifer Lopez (2019)

2. Janelle Monáe (2024)

1. Teyana Taylor

Just when you think you’ve seen it all on the Met Gala carpet, some stars manage to take fashion even further. Get ready! These next outfits didn’t just turn heads, they broke the rules.