The first Monday in May is always a big deal in the fashion world, but this year’s Met Gala was an absolute showstopper! The star-studded event lived up to its reputation as the Oscars of fashion, with celebs bringing their A-game and then some to the iconic red carpet.
As the saying goes, “When you’ve got it, flaunt it,” and these 7 Black queens did just that, exuding boldness and confidence while turning heads with their outstanding outfits.
From jaw-dropping gowns that demanded their own entourages to dresses made from unexpected materials like sand and recycled bottles, these trailblazers weren’t afraid to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a fashion icon.
Forget playing it safe – these ladies went all out, and the results were nothing short of legendary. Brace yourselves, because this ‘red’ carpet was hotter than the surface of the sun!
Get ready to be dazzled as we break down the looks that had everyone talking.
1. Erykah Badu’s Floral Flair
“Erykah Badu loves to serve a lewk!”
The R&B songstress arrived at the Met Gala in a bright, floral outfit that immediately caught everyone’s eye. Donning a dress and vest from Comme des Garcons, Badu exuded confidence and fearlessness with her bold fashion choice.
2. Keke Palmer Shines in Sequined Splendor
Keke Palmer dazzled on the red carpet in a form-fitting gown designed by Marc Jacobs. The dress, embellished with glimmering antique beaded embroidery sequins, created the illusion of fabric delicately embracing her silhouette. The sleeves cascaded down, unveiling Palmer’s arms and trailing behind her with every step.
3. Serena Williams Goes for Gilded Glamour
Once again, Serena Williams proved her prowess on the Met Gala steps, collaborating with Balenciaga on a stunning gold gown.
The dress, inspired by the house’s 51st couture collection, was a labor of love, with the atelier dedicating 150 hours to its creation.
The ethereal sash train added an extra touch of glamour to the 25-meter gold foil-laminated taffeta masterpiece.
4. Tyla Transformed Into a Sand Sculpture
For her inaugural Met Gala, Tyla turned heads with a dress made entirely of sand, courtesy of Balmain.
The strapless gown hugged the singer’s body before flaring out into an organza mermaid train, adorned with micro crystal studs that shimmered with her every move.
5. Taraji P. Henson’s Floral Fantasy
Taraji P. Henson looked sensational in a cream floral gown by Simkhai.
The dress featured illusion side cut-outs and a dramatic skirt, showcasing the actress’s impeccable style and confidence.
6. Janelle Monáe’s Sustainable Splendor
Merging the theme with sustainability, Janelle Monáe wore a custom Vera Wang Couture dress that incorporated recycled plastic bottles molded into organic flower shapes.
The intricate details, including plastic paillettes dripping from her hair, ensured that this look was a standout on the red carpet.
7. Cardi B’s Jaw-Dropping Finale
Closing the Met Gala red carpet with a bang, Cardi B debuted a voluminous feather-trimmed black gown by Windowsen. The dramatic look took up the entire courtyard, requiring a nine-person entourage to fan out the skirt to its full capacity. Accessorized with a black turban, diamond and emerald jewelry, and dagger-sharp green nails, Cardi B once again proved her fashion icon status.