The Best Met Gala Beauty Looks of All Time
From Rihanna to Bella Hadid.
It’s that time of year again — the Met Gala is just one week away. 2025’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is set to celebrate the influence of Black fashion and personal expression. With co-chairs Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams and Anna Wintour, the path to the Metropolitan Museum of Art is bound to be packed with statement-making looks — and we’re not just talking about the clothing. While we’re excited to see how the stars interpret the chosen dress code through couture, we’re even more eager to see what the beauty moments bring.
Whether it’s a sculptural updo, intricate braids or radiant skin, this event is the place where trends are set. As we gear up for the grand event, we’re glancing back at the most iconic glam that continues to inspire and redefine the red carpet. From Rihanna‘s pin-straight brows to Bella Hadid‘s doll-like makeup, here are some of the most unforgettable Met Gala beauty moments of all time.
Rihanna
At the 2015 Met Gala, themed “China: Through the Looking Glass,” Rihanna captivated the world with her straight brows, bright scarlet bob and an intricately ornate headpiece.
Lupita Nyong’o
At the 2021 Met Gala, dubbed the “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion” celebration, Lupita Nyong’o delivered a look that masterfully blended American denim heritage with her fashion and makeup choices. Wearing custom Atelier Versace, her eyes featured a matching blue hue, with her hair moved into a beautifully sculptural shape.
Bella Hadid
Like a doll come to life, latex-clad Bella Hadid rocked an almost renaissance-like glam at the 2022 Met Gala, a nod to “In America: An Anthology of Fashion.”
Cher
Clad in custom Bob Mackie, Cher wore purple shadow and kohl-lined eyes for the “Costumes of Royal India” Met Gala in 1985.
Yara Shahidi
At the 2023 Met Gala, honoring the life and legacy of Karl Lagerfeld, Yara Shahidi stunned with a sultry black smokey eye and rich brown lipstick, channeling the timeless glamour of the house of Chanel.
Zendaya
Zendaya never misses when she walks a red carpet, especially last year when she wore accessories like a bird and a netted hat. Her mauve eyeshadow and purple lip were a perfect complement to her avant-garde look, executed in a way only the actor and singer can.
Gigi Hadid
The 2024 Met Gala brought fantasy to life with its theme, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” Gigi Hadid channeled a modern Disney princess with her red lip, ethereal white gown and bright pink blush.
Cardi B
If anyone knows how to match their diamonds, it’s Cardi B. Last year, the rapper turned heads by pairing her emerald jewelry with green nail extensions and mint inner eyeliner.
While you’re here, check out our coverage of Lauren Luxenberg’s “In Power” exhibit.
