The much-awaited red carpet event is back! And after a year-long hiatus, the stakes are much higher. Check out our favorite Met Gala 2021 looks.

The Met Gala is one of the most illustrious red carpet events—usually held on the first Monday in May. But due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was canceled last year and was postponed this year for the same reasons. Nevertheless, the show must go on. And go on, it did.

With its new schedule on September 13, 2021—right in the middle of fashion month—the Met Gala will once again, take place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. But this time, the stakes are on a higher, much grander scale.

In celebration of the Costume Institute’s newest exhibition, “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” celebrities and famous personalities will embody the true American style. From flashy star-spangled ensembles to discreet American motifs, addressing social issues (in style!), and more, expect memorable outfits to grace the red carpet this year.

Whether we’re talking about memorable pieces or timeless classics, the Met Gala has served us amazing looks. Here are some of our favorites, ranked in no particular order:

10. Billie Eilish

Dressed like the belle of the ball, American singer-songwriter Billie Eilish graces the red carpet in a low-cut blush pink tulle gown by Oscar de la Renta, her blond hair gracefully framing her face in a cascade of curls.

9. Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello

In outfits too hot to handle, Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello showed some skin in this year’s Met Gala. Cabello wore a purple sparkly crop top and matching skirt—paired with a furry train—while Mendes bared his abs in an open leather jacket, paired with black pants. Both were dressed by Michael Kors.

8. Timothée Chalamet

Opting for a more casual look, Met Gala 2021 co-chair and actor Timothée Chalamet wore a casual, all-white ensemble by Haider Ackermann. The outfit features a satin tuxedo jacket with black lapels, white sweats, and Converse shoes.

7. Rosé

In her first-ever Met Gala (a milestone for any artist), Blackpink’s Rosé graced the red carpet in a chic Saint Laurent number: a little black dress with a white bow embellishment. She completes the look with a large choker and dramatic dangle earrings.

6. Lili Reinhart

Donning a delicate pink gown—adorned with flowers around and on the train—Riverdale star Lili Reinhart turned heads in a Christian Siriano piece, which she paired with a delicate necklace and dangling earrings.

5. Hailee Steinfeld

Debuting an entirely new look, Hailee Steinfeld made a statement with her new look: bleached eyebrows and a sharp, blonde bob. But that’s not the only reason why she turned many heads that night. Yes, this fashion-forward actress and singer donned a micro-mini number—a striking yet delicate leaf-inspired dress—by Iris van Herpen.

4. Rihanna

Known for showcasing iconic looks at the Met Gala, Rihanna floored the crowd in a stunning Balenciaga overcoat and matching hat. To contrast the voluminous ruffles, the singer and actress paired her look with a sparkling choker from Maria Tash jewelry.

3. Kendall Jenner

In a move to replicate one of Audrey Hepburn’s iconic looks, American model, socialite, and media personality Kendall Jenner wore a sparkly custom Givenchy to this year’s Met Gala. Draping crystals on a sheer dress, a cascading train, nude high heels, and bejeweled neck and shoulder pieces make up this eye-catching outfit.

2. Kim Kardashian

Not to be outdone by her sister, Kim Kardashian donned an outfit that caught everyone’s attention: a stark black Balenciaga haute couture gown with a matching mask and train. A piece that was unlike what anyone has ever worn to the Met Gala, it was one that was so simple and yet so profound.

In fact, Vogue describes it as a “look [that] gave the reality star something she hasn’t had in a long while: anonymity,” while the internet has taken the humorous approach—comparing its likeness to the dementors from the Harry Potter series or the Black Hood, a villain from the TV series Riverdale, among many others.

1. Saweetie

Paying homage to her Filipino roots (and in the spirit of Pinoy Pride), Fil-Am singer and rapper Saweetie wears a sparkling red Christian Cowan gown. With its asymmetrical neckline, skin-baring cutouts, and high slit, the dress oozes sensuality and accentuates her best features.

But the dramatic finish? Two iridescent trains that represent the Philippine and Black American flags.

Which Met Gala 2021 look is your favorite?

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