What’s the Most Iconic Met Gala Beauty Look of All Time?
The Met Gala, an annual fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City, is not just a fashion extravaganza but also a platform where beauty transcends ordinary expectations. It’s akin to the Olympics of hair, makeup, and styling—a spectacle that leaves us mesmerized each year. In this post, we delve into some of the most unforgettable Met Gala beauty looks as chosen by industry insiders.
Feline Liner on Jennifer Lopez
For the 2019 “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” makeup artist Ash K Holm created a stunning look for Jennifer Lopez. Her fit-to-flawless gown in light pink and black was complemented by a feline cat eye, emphasizing her signature glow. The meticulous planning behind this glamorous moment involved mood boards and hours of collaboration, showcasing the dedication that goes into making each Met Gala appearance unforgettable.
Moving Art on Cara Delevingne
For the “Notes on Camp” theme in 2019, Mara Roszak worked with artist Machine Dazzle to craft an extraordinary headpiece for Cara Delevingne. The months of collaboration resulted in a piece that was not just wearable art but functional too! This look exemplifies how the Met Gala serves as a platform where fashion and beauty become one, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
Hair Whip on Tessa Thompson
Lacy Redway transformed Tessa Thompson’s locks into a dynamic hair whip for the 2019 “Notes on Camp.” The collaboration was marked with late-night brainstorming sessions and an impromptu cowboy hat braid. Such inventive transformations highlight how hairstyling at the Met Gala is not just about glamour but also creativity and innovation.
Rockabilly Barbie on Kristen Stewart
Adir Abergel paid homage to 1940s and ’50s American glamour for Kristen Stewart with a refined rockabilly look. This style not only resonated with her aesthetic but also encapsulated the essence of Met Gala’s penchant for blending nostalgia with modernity.
Creative Collaboration with Gemma Chan
For the “Notes on Camp,” Daniel Martin and Gemma Chan created a look inspired by Anna May Wong and John Galliano’s iconic designs. Their months-long creative exchange culminated in a Met Gala appearance that was both innovative and deeply rooted in fashion history.
Incredible Sparkles on Lily James
Valeria Ferreira’s meticulous work on Lily James’ 2022 Versace dress brought an ethereal, mermaid-like quality to her appearance. Through hours of experimenting with shadows and glitters, she created a harmonious blend of lilac and silver that perfectly matched the gown’s aquatic theme.
Hollywood Glamour on Halle Bailey
Christiana Cassell’s work on Halle Bailey for last year’s gala was a tribute to “The Little Mermaid.” The opalescent shimmers and bold red bob echoed the theme while highlighting Bailey’s unique beauty. This look is an example of how Met Gala appearances can be personal, thematic, and universally enchanting.