The Met Gala: through the years.

We take a look at the top looks from previous years at the Met Gala.

By: Gretta Padgett

With this year’s Met Gala right around the corner, we are filled with anticipation to see what the celebrities will wear to what is considered, next to that of the Academy Awards, the biggest red carpet event of the year. This time around, the gala’s is inspired by the east, in honor of next year’s exhibit, “China: Through the Looking Glass”. Selecta has gathered our top eight favorite MET Ball outfits of all time, as we wait with anticipation for this year’s gala and its glamorous outfits.

“Poiret: King of Fashion”- 2007

This leading French designer of the first two decades of the 20th century is credited to have been the one who freed women of corsets from their dresses. His designs called for straight lines and worked with fabric straight on the body. Here we see Camilla Belle embodying that idea wearing a dress with draping.

“Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy”- 2008

The idea behind this theme was to allow the costumes to express a sense of empowerment. Superhero costumes are represented to show power and strength and these characteristics can be transitioned into fashion. Victoria Beckham arrived in a sleek white gown detailed with a collar, balancing the delicate lace with an intense neckline. No better way to show the ability of transformation in a single dress.

“The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion”- 2009

Kate Beckinsale made her way down the red carpet in a stunning, grey, Marchesa gown. The theme focused on the relationship between high fashion and the evolving view of beauty.

“American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity”- 2010

The modern woman owes their freedom of style thanks to the inspirational women between 1890 and the 1940’s when fashion hit a major revolution. Doutzen Kroes dawns an alluring baby blue ball gown that expresses a classic feel from past years. A total modern-day Cinderella!

“Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty”- 2011

Alexander McQueen was known for his over the top silhouettes and detailing in his designs. The 2011 exhibition paid homage to the designer and his lavish looks. Beyoncé interpreted the theme with a fitted mermaid gown by Emilio Pucci and was embodied with a gold design over the silhouette to get the overall feeling of traditionally “McQueen” details.

“Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations”- 2012

Two Italian fashion houses are brought together for a comparison of their similarities despite them being from different eras. These women designers brought about innovative ideas and female empowerment in their designs. Sofia Vergara awed spectators with a fitted bodice in a silver hue and is not afraid to show her amazing figure.

“Punk: Chaos to Couture”- 2013

Taylor Swift was able to hit a new note with her jaw dropping J. Mendel gown. This sweet pop star is known for her girl-next-door looks, but is able to rock this gown in honor of the theme, which reflected the influence it has on the fashion industry with its “do-it-yourself” ability anyone can achieve.

“Charles James: Beyond Fashion”- 2014

Sarah Jessica Parker arrived at the gala with a ravishing black and white ball gown by Oscar de la Renta, in one of the last red carpet moments of the designer’s life. The gown also has straight lines running through the dramatic bottom half that recalls Charles James mathematical approach to ball gowns and new tailoring techniques.