In her first of two (!) looks this night, Zendaya donned a vampy, ultra-glam, grungey eye look and matching lip that legit had me barking at my screen when I saw it on IG. It’s definitely in the Met Gala Hall of Fame. And did you peep her matching nails?
The Most Iconic Stunning Beauty Looks in Met Gala History
Before the Met Gala was the costume event it is now, it was much more pared back. However, you could count on supermodel Linda Evangelista to turn it out, with this stunning smokey eye, matte skin, and slicked-back hair. Just because it’s not in your face doesn’t make it less impactful. Billie Eilish ’s high-glam take for “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion” lives in my mind rent-free. Between the blown-out voluminous bob, the dramatic eyeliner, and the sharp lip—it perfectly complements her voluptuous, gauzy gown. Lily Collins showed up and showed out in 2019 for the “Camp: Notes on Fashion” theme. And while her outfit was certainly stunning, it was really her whole glam look that took it to a cool place. I love the juxtaposition of a really strong eye loaded with lilac color, heavy liner, and lots of lashes next to a bare, almost concealer-like lip. And of course, the flowers in her hair? Trés chic. And did you peep her matching nails? It’s rare we see men on the carpet with an interesting or even remotely visible beauty look. IDK if it’s the swirled edges or the pristine smokey eye and beat Taylor has become known for. Many will say this was one of the best Met Gala outfits of all time. This look is peak ‘90s: bright under-eyes, cloudlike skin, and glossy overlined lip. It was extremely difficult to choose only one look from Rihanna, considering she’s kind of a Met Gala queen. But I’d go as far as to say her ranks super high considering her overarching impact. Anytime a Met Gala attendee wears something out of their usual element, it feels especially memorable and iconic. We can’t talk about best looks without including Cher. Why carry a train when you can carry your braid?
Zendaya (2024)
Zendaya’s 2024 appearance perfectly embodies the era’s bold, unapologetic glamour. Her vampy eye makeup featured a deep, smoky finish that extended outwards, creating a dramatic wing. The matching lip, a rich berry shade, completed the intensely glamorous aesthetic. And did you peep her matching nails? It was a cohesive, powerful look that commanded attention and solidified her status as a style icon.
Linda Evangelista (2004)
Before the Met Gala was the spectacle it is today, Linda Evangelista consistently delivered timeless elegance. Her 2004 look featured a classic smokey eye, expertly blended for a soft, diffused effect. Her skin appeared flawless, with a matte finish that allowed the eyes to take center stage. Her hair was styled in a sleek, slicked-back manner, emphasizing her features. This look is a masterclass in understated glamour – a testament to the power of classic beauty.
Billie Eilish (2021)
Billie Eilish’s 2021 appearance for “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion” was a study in high glamour. Her hair was styled in a voluminous, textured bob, and her eyes were framed by dramatic eyeliner and a generous amount of lashes. The sharp lip color provided a striking contrast. This look, paired with her signature oversized outfit, perfectly complemented her unique style and the event’s theme. The contrast between the voluminous hair and the sharp makeup was particularly noteworthy.
Lily Collins (2019)
Lily Collins showed up and showed out in 2019 for the “Camp: Notes on Fashion” theme. And while her outfit was certainly stunning, it was really her whole glam look that took it to a cool place. I love the juxtaposition of a really strong eye loaded with lilac color, heavy liner, and lots of lashes next to a bare, almost concealer-like lip. And of course, the flowers in her hair? Trés chic. Emily would approve. This look was a playful yet sophisticated interpretation of the theme, showcasing a bold eye paired with a minimalist lip.
Victoria Beckham (2003)
The number of times I brought this specific photo to a hairdresser as a teenager should tell you just how iconic this look was. It didn’t break barriers, but gosh, it looked damn good. Victoria Beckham shows you don’t have to do the most to make a statement. Here, she’s got a really good layered haircut, curling iron waves, and likely lots of hairspray. Her makeup was simple – a touch of definition around the eyes and a glossy overlined lip – allowing her chic hairstyle to be the focal point. This look perfectly encapsulates early 2000s cool.
Kid Cudi (2021)
It’s rare we see men on the carpet with an interesting or even remotely visible beauty look. But Kid Cudi’s 2021 appearance was a standout. He sported a bold black smokey eye paired with vibrant neon-green hair color. This unexpected combination was a fearless and memorable statement, showcasing individuality and a willingness to experiment with fashion and beauty.
Teyana Taylor (2025)
IDK if it’s the swirled edges or the pristine smokey eye and beat Taylor has become known for, but everything about this look is working for me. Her makeup was expertly applied, with a smoky eye that added depth and a subtle contour that sculpted her features. Her lips were a soft nude, allowing her eyes to be the focal point. This look is a testament to polished glamour and a true red-carpet moment. Charli XCX, I have an idea for you.
Lady Gaga (2019)
Many will say this was one of the best Met Gala outfits of all time—considering it was four outfits in one. But I’d go as far as to say her beauty ranks super high as well. The teeny bows made out of hair. The gold lashes on the top and the bottom. The matching bright-pink lip. The white inner-corner eyeliner. It’s all so good! Many will say this was one of the best Met Gala outfits of all time, considering it was four outfits in one. We can’t talk about best looks without including Cher. Why carry a train when you can carry your braid?
Kate Moss (1995)
This look is peak ‘90s: bright under-eyes, cloudlike skin, and glossy overlined lip. Of course, it’s all paired with Moss’s classic bedhead (that just happens to be trending again). It’s simple but so effective. This look perfectly captures the effortless cool of the 1990s, prioritizing a youthful, slightly undone aesthetic. The bright under-eyes were a defining trend of the era, and Moss wore them with signature chic.
Rihanna (2018)
It was extremely difficult to choose only one look from Rihanna, considering she’s kind of a Met Gala queen. But I’d go as far as to say she knocked it out with this one for the 2018 “Heavenly Bodies” theme. Smokey eyes and bold ombré lips feel somewhat counterintuitive for an event centered around Catholic fashion, but only Rihanna would do it in the coolest, most subversive way. This look actually ended up being a Reputation Easter egg—not only did she go on to wear a similar deep lip during that era but talked about this night in the song “Dress.”
Taylor Swift (2016)
Anytime a Met Gala attendee wears something out of their usual element, it feels especially memorable and iconic. Case in point: Taylor Swift’s 2016 look, where she opted for a deep-red lip, a departure from her usual blue-based classic red she’s known for. This bold lip color was a statement, and her overall look was polished and sophisticated. It showcased her willingness to embrace a more mature and glamorous aesthetic for the event. This look actually ended up being a Reputation Easter egg—not only did she go on to wear a similar deep lip during that era but talked about this night in the song “Dress.”
Cher (1999)
We can’t talk about best looks without including Cher. Her 1999 Met Gala appearance was a masterclass in dramatic glamour. She sported slicked-back hair, a violet smokey eye, and frosted lips. This look was bold, theatrical, and perfectly captured the late 1990s maximalist aesthetic. The violet eyeshadow and frosted lips were quintessential trends of the era, and Cher wore them with her signature confidence.
Key Trends in Stunning Beauty Looks
Looking back at these iconic moments reveals several recurring themes in stunning beauty looks at the Met Gala. Bold lip colors are consistently a standout, ranging from deep reds and berries to vibrant pinks and ombré shades. Smokey eyes, in various iterations – from classic neutral tones to dramatic jewel tones – are another perennial favorite. The 1990s influence is also evident, with trends like bright under-eyes, glossy overlined lips, and textured hair making memorable appearances.
Beyond specific makeup and hair choices, a key element of a stunning Met Gala look is confidence. Attendees aren’t afraid to push boundaries and experiment with bold, unconventional styles. The event provides a platform for self-expression and a celebration of fashion as art, where beauty looks are often as thought-provoking as the clothing itself. The willingness to step outside of one’s comfort zone and embrace a unique aesthetic is what truly elevates a beauty look from simply being pretty to being truly iconic.
Tips for Achieving a Stunning Beauty Look
While the Met Gala looks are often elaborate and require professional artistry, many of the elements can be adapted for everyday wear. Here are a few tips for achieving a stunning beauty look:
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Experiment with Bold Lip Colors
Don’t be afraid to step outside of your usual lip shade. A bold lip color can instantly elevate your look. If you’re unsure where to start, try a classic red, a deep berry, or a vibrant pink. There are many lipsticks available in a variety of finishes, from matte to glossy, so you can find one that suits your style.
Master the Smokey Eye
A smokey eye is a timeless classic that can be customized to suit any occasion. Start with a neutral eyeshadow base and gradually build up the intensity of the smokey effect with darker shades. Blend well to create a soft, diffused finish. For a more dramatic look, try adding a pop of color to the inner corner of your eye.
Embrace Texture
Don’t be afraid to play with texture in your hair and makeup. Texturized hair adds volume and movement, while textured makeup can add depth and dimension. Try using a texturizing spray or mousse to create tousled waves, or experiment with different eyeshadow textures, such as shimmer or matte.
Focus on Skincare
A flawless complexion is the foundation of any stunning beauty look. Invest in a good skincare routine to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Apply a primer before your makeup to create a smooth base, and finish with a setting spray to help your makeup last all day.
Don’t Forget the Details
The details are what truly make a beauty look stand out. Consider adding a touch of sparkle with glitter or rhinestones, or experiment with different hair accessories, such as headbands or clips. A well-chosen accessory can add personality and flair to your look.
Ultimately, the key to achieving a stunning beauty look is to have fun and express yourself. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and find what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you’re aiming for a classic Hollywood glamour look or a more avant-garde aesthetic, the most important thing is to embrace your individuality.
The Enduring Power of Beauty
The beauty looks seen at the Met Gala are more than just fleeting trends; they are reflections of cultural shifts and evolving ideals of beauty. From the bold glamour of the 1990s to the experimental aesthetics of today, these looks offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of fashion and self-expression. And while the event is often associated with high fashion, the principles of creating a stunning beauty look – confidence, creativity, and attention to detail – are universally applicable. It’s a reminder that beauty is not just about what you wear, but about how you make yourself feel.
