By Megan Riedlinger
3:00pm PST, Dec 23, 2023
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The first Monday in May marks the most exciting fashion event of the year — the Met Gala! The 2023 event on May 1 celebrated late, great designer Karl Lagerfeld. We rounded up photos of the stars who exemplified the legend's fashion legacy — from homages to his beloved cat Choupette to his go-to accessories like pearls and gloves to the unique impressions he left during his time at fashion houses like Chloe, Fendi, Balmain and, of course, Chanel — and those that really missed the mark. So who did Karl proud? Let's find out…
Do we adore the homage to Karl Lagerfeld's devoted kitty, Choupette? Yes. But Doja Cat's Oscar de la Renta look may have taken it too far. The sleeveless frock included a fitted silhouette and a feathered skirt that trailed behind her in a train, but we almost couldn't focus on the beautiful details of her gown because of her facial transformation. See what we mean next…
Then keep clicking for more of the best and worst looks from the 2023 Met Gala…
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When Doja Cat got inspired by Karl Lagerfeld's cat Choupette, she didn't just rock a hood with kitten ears… she transformed her entire face with prosthetics to take on feline features. And while we admire the dedication, this one might give us nightmares.
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One of the night's co-chairs, Penelope Cruz, was obviously going to turn up in Chanel. The beauty was a very close friend of Karl Lagerfeld's, so selecting a custom Chanel Haute Couture gown inspired by Karl's days at the fashion house back in 1988 was a fitting pick. The white dress, complete with a fitted bodice and a hooded veil, gave a very bridal feel, but it was the detailing on this one that really won us over…
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Sorry, Jennifer Lopez, but this homage to Karl Lagerfeld was a miss. Her custom Ralph Lauren gown contrasted rich black velvet with slinky pale pink silk and featured a bodice that was more skin than fabric as well as a bow detail that trailed behind her as dueling trains. The halter-style neckline was great — it included a floral element that had to be heated and molded by hand to give it a realistic flower feel — but then the star inexplicably topped things off with a black fascinator fit for a royal wedding.
MORE: The best accessories from past Met Galas
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Ever curious about what a Karl Lagerfeld and Versace collaboration would look like? Then you're in luck — because that's exactly what Anne Hathaway brought to the Met Gala red carpet. Her white gown combined the classic tweed of Chanel with quintessential Versace elements like safety pins and a thigh-high slit for one of our favorite Karl takes of the night. Now we've got to get a better view…
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The detailing on Anne Hathaway's Atelier Versace number included gold hardware with the classic Medusa embellishment… that also included Karl Lagerfeld's go-to pearls. Paired with the tweed fabric and the gloves, we know he would have approved of this one!
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The meaning behind Elle Fanning's Met Gala ensemble was sweetly sentimental. The star explained on Instagram that the designer once photographed her in a white dress and black Chanel jacket and placed a crown of daisies on her head — so she wore that again with a twist. Vivienne Westwood designed her ethereal white lacy gown, which she topped with a black bolero jacket. Next up? A look at the flower crown she rocked atop her head…
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Elle Fanning's delicate daisy crown included black bow details along the edges. The stylish star completed her look with chunky gold jewelry from Cartier.
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We can't stop thinking about Dua Lipa's stunning throwback look. The beauty, who was one of the night's co-chairs, went into the archives for her look and selected this phenomenal ballgown from 1992. The white-and-black tweed look epitomized classic Chanel staples while the silhouette allowed for a regal moment. Let's check out this one from another angle…
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Dua Lipa's vintage Chanel gown made for the perfect homage to Karl Lagerfeld. And when it came time to accessorize, she also opted for a piece with a lot of history…
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Dua Lipa's necklace wasn't just any Tiffany & Co. piece — it featured a diamond over 100 carats. Called the Legendary diamond, the massive stone was set amongst even more diamonds on the Lucida Star necklace. It's meant to pay tribute to the famous yellow Tiffany diamond with a similar cushion cut.
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Doja Cat wasn't the only cat in the house! One star arrived in a full cat suit, complete with a head that looked like Karl Lagerfeld's kitty Choupette. Who was the famous face underneath all the fur? Keep reading to find out…
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Jared Leto! The star, who once played Karl Lagerfeld in a film, paid homage to the late designer by dressing up as his beloved pet cat.
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We loved the history behind Nicole Kidman's Met Gala dress! The star arrived in Chanel, of course, but not just any Chanel piece: She picked a pale pink feather- and sequin-embellished design that she wore back in 2004 in Chanel No. 5 perfume ad… making it the perfect selection for the night's theme.
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Upon first glance, Emily Ratajkowski's beige and black gown didn't seem to be heavily Karl Lagerfeld-inspired, with its sleeveless bodice, drop waist and billowy train. But her Tory Burch design actually did pay a sweet nod to the fashion legend…
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Emily Ratajkowski's beige Tory Burch gown featured embroidery that was meant to look like the quilting of the iconic Chanel bag… a detail that no doubt would have made Karl Lagerfeld proud.
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We were expecting more from this risk-taking fashionista! Julia Garner served up a polarizing look on Met Gala night — a custom Gucci creation that included a pale gold silk halter-style gown topped with a black cape. And while certain elements certainly evoked the spirit of Karl Lagerfeld, amongst a sea of stars who knocked the theme out of the park, this one ended up not being very memorable by the end of the night.
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Gigi Hadid tapped Givenchy for her Met Gala look, arriving in this interesting black getup that juxtaposed the harshness of a severe corset with layer after layer of tulle. When it came time to accessorize, Gigi subtly alluded to Karl Lagerfeld, whom she worked with often in her modeling career. Tiny gloves (a Karl staple!) and a certain necklace paid homage to the designer…
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Gigi Hadid added layered pearl necklaces — another Karl Lagerfeld go-to — to top off her look, and diamond, pearl and black gemstone earrings from Smiling Rocks and Lagos were also in the mix.
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We can't even show you the top of Rachel Brosnahan's Sergio Hudson Met Gala gown. The star's long-sleeved, floor-length black design included strategically placed sequins on the top half before giving way to a drop-waist skirt — a look inspired by a 1992 Chloe minidress that served up gothic '90s vibes — and she added ear climbers by Simon G to infuse a little more sparkle. And though we appreciated the unique nod to the theme, we couldn't get behind this one.
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Sydney Sweeney was one of our best dressed stars of the night, arriving in this dreamy blush-hued Miu Miu confection. From the embellished straps to the fitted silhouette that exploded into a mermaid-style skirt complete with a train, we loved every inch of this look. But our favorite part had to be the oversized black bows that balanced things out — one at the knee of her gown and the other topping her stunning hairstyle. Let's see that next…
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Sydney Sweeney topped her voluminous hairstyle with a dramatic black velvet bow that complemented the bow on her gown. We loved the decision to go simple when it came to jewelry — the star opted to go sans necklace and added delicate diamond drop earrings to complete her Met Gala ensemble.
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We know Karl Lagerfeld loved pearls, but we still couldn't get behind Kim Kardashian's execution of the theme. The reality star rocked a Schiaparelli design comprised of a tan corset and strategically layered strings of pearls with a gathered cape detail flowing behind her. Though we appreciated the sentiment, the largely ivory look fell flat.
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One of the most unique takes on the theme came from Allison Williams, who arrived in this peachy silk creation by Patou. The look — inspired by Karl Lagerfeld's work as the creative director of Patou way back in 1959 — featured an oversized bow detail rising from the bodice and styling with elbow-length black gloves showing off what would have been Karl's mark.
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We knew Florence Pugh would bring the extra, so it's no surprise that the actress arrived in this over-the-top ensemble from Valentino. The white gown, complete with a black bow on the bodice that flowed down to the floor and an incredibly dramatic train, was overshadowed, though, by her new 'do and headwear…
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Florence Pugh showed off a new hairstyle — a shaved head — underneath a wild feathered headpiece on Met Gala night. And while her look did raise eyebrows, we didn't see a strong Karl Lagerfeld connection. If not for the new 'do, this look would have likely been pretty forgettable.
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No pants? No problem! Kendall Jenner absolutely nailed this year's theme in a Marc Jacobs getup complete with an oversized embellished silver collar, dramatic cape-like sleeves with a quilted white lining and all-over black sequins on the bodysuit that would have made Karl proud. The model also donned Marc Jacobs Kiki platform boots and an equally exquisite beauty look, which we'll see next…
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Kendall Jenner added a perfect high ponytail with plenty of bounce and diamond earrings by Lorraine Schwartz to finish off her winning Met Gala moment.
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If you wanted to stand out on the first Monday in May, all you needed to do was pick a color other than black, white or champagne. Viola Davis got that memo, arriving in bold Valentino hot pink. And while we appreciate the breath of fresh air her stunning frock brought to the Met steps — and that feathered neckline! — this look fell in line with current Valentino trends and didn't really draw from Karl Lagerfeld's legacy.
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The black and white! The gloves! Aubrey Plaza's look exemplified a meeting of Stella McCartney and Karl Lagerfeld's minds — with her slinky white gown featuring cutouts with embellished edges and over-the-elbow black gloves adding some edge. An updo tied with a black bow was the cherry on top of this standout look from the "White Lotus" star.
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Another star showing off a dramatic new hairdo? Jessica Chastain! Yes, that's really the actress — who showed off platinum blonde hair on Met Gala night. Aside from the stunning hair changeup, she rocked oversized black shades and gloves — some of Karl Lagerfeld's favorite accessories — with her otherwise underwhelming strapless Gucci gown. To prove it's really the star, let's take a closer look…
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Oscar winner Jessica Chastain lifted her shades to prove that it was her rocking blonde hair.
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An angel arrived on the red carpet! Gisele Bundchen went back to her Victoria's Secret Angel roots with this one — a vintage Chanel look from 2007. The supermodel looked phenomenal in this chic white gown with sequin-embroidered vertical stripes topped with an impossibly glamorous white feathered cape. Let's see this one from another angle…
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Gisele Bundchen certainly left her mark at the Met Gala this year, rocking this vintage Chanel cape that trailed behind her. The model juxtaposed the glamorous white ensemble with artfully messy waves.
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Who's that girl? Billie Eilish traded her usual Gucci grunge aesthetic for a gothic and gorgeous black Simone Rocha getup. The sleeveless dress included plenty of black lace, including lace over-the-elbow gloves. Aside from the twist on her usual wardrobe choices, we also appreciated the switch-up she did with her hairstyle…
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Billie in a braid! Billie Eilish opted to wear her dark tresses in a lengthy braid, which complemented her moody Simone Rocha gown perfectly.
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Yikes! Olivia Wilde opted for a custom Chloe look that was inspired by a vintage piece created during Karl Lagerfeld's time at the fashion label in 1983… but unfortunately, this look didn't translate well in 2023. The strange gold violin-shaped detail down the center of the white gown paired with the unnecessary arm cuffs felt more like armor than a unique musically-inspired element.
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We were needing a good pop of color, so Salma Hayek came along at the perfect time! The star, who was actually once Karl Lagerfeld's neighbor in Paris, paid homage to the fashion icon in red leather and tulle by Gucci. Delicate pearl off-the-shoulder straps gave this otherwise severe bodice a more delicate feel, and below the waist, the look turned into a cascade of pleated tulle layers and lace.
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Kristen Stewart has been a Chanel ambassador for years, so it's no surprise who she wore to the Met Gala. The surprise actually came in the form of her low-key look — a messy black-and-white suit comprised of a cropped tuxedo shirt, baggy black trousers, a bolero jacket and a Chanel logo-clad belt. Black-and-white loafers from the brand finished off this disappointing look.
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One of our very favorite looks of the night came from Keke Palmer, who star arrived in this stunning strapless Sergio Hudson confection. The frock included a tweed look, reminiscent of Karl Lagerfeld's signature Chanel fabric, which included embellishments of Swarovski crystals and pearls in subtle pastel pink and blue hued-stones. She topped the exquisite design off with a silk taffeta coat that matched those dreamy pale shades. We'll need to see this one up close…
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Darling! Keke Palmer's Sergio Hudson gown's subtle pops of pastel were our favorite element, and up close you can really see the tweed detailing of the fabric. Massive pink gemstone earrings completed this fabulous Met Gala moment from the star.
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Most of the Gucci looks of the night weren't great at adhering to the theme, but we liked the subtle Karl Lagerfeld-inspired elements that Daisy Edgar-Jones's custom ensemble implemented. Her two-piece look included white piping, a wink at his penchant for black and white looks, and subtle bow embellishments to add to the femininity. Otherwise, the thigh-high slit and keyhole cutout on the crop top didn't feel very Karl-esque.
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Miranda Kerr looked like a pretty princess at the Met Gala in off-white Christian Dior. Her stunning ballgown included a subtle allusion to Karl's genius with pearl embellishments throughout. This one needs a closer look…
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From the delicate embellishments along the thin straps to the all-over tiny pearls strong throughout, Miranda Kerr's classic Dior gown paid tribute to the theme in a subtle way. A bun, dark lip and diamond choker necklace rounded out this A+ ensemble.
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We say this a lot but…. why, Olivia Rodrigo? The pop star let us down once more this Met Gala, arriving in one of the worst looks of the night — this black and white custom Thom Browne design. The strapless frock featured floral embellishments at the neckline before cascading into black and white fringe that, quite frankly, made us dizzy if we stared too long.
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This pink column-style stunner worn by Naomi Campbell was actually a vintage Chanel dress from the 2010 runway! The beautiful pink satin frock got to enjoy the spotlight with Naomi's simple beauty look — a straightforward center part and pretty pink lip.
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We were underwhelmed by Kate Moss' look this year. After modeling for dozens of Karl Lagerfeld's collections, this snoozy lingerie-inspired Fendi gown fell flat. The pale pink confection was comprised of silk and satin lace with detachable silk sleeves, and while it would have been pretty on a red carpet, it wasn't splashy enough for such a monumental Met Gala. Fortunately, her daughter Lila fared better…
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Lila Moss wore a Fendi design by Karl Lagerfeld himself! The peach-hued confection hailed from 2018 and included all-over feathers apart from the break at the waist that showed off her midriff.
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Suki Waterhouse excelled at the theme in a 2019 Fendi dress designed by Karl Lagerfeld himself. We loved the whimsical vibe of this tan frock's embellishments atop silk and tulle, which definitely need a closer look…
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Suki Waterhouse's Fendi frock included some gorgeous floral embellishments, giving it a whimsical quality.
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What exactly is happening here, Irina Shayk? The typically stylish supermodel arrived in this puzzling combination — an ill-fitting champagne-hued sleeveless gown paired with… hotel slippers? We're still not quite sure.
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"Saturday Night Live" star Chloe Fineman embraced a Chanel go-to during Karl Lagerfeld's era — a black and pink combo. The star's custom Wiederhoeft design included a bodice trimmed in stunning rose-shaped tulle that flowed into a pretty pink fitted bodice and straight midi-length skirt. And if the hues weren't homage enough, Chloe's adorable purse certainly was…
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Chloe Fineman added a Choupette-inspired cat-shaped bag to her look… in metallic pink!
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Serena Williams, who announced she was expecting baby number two prior to hitting the carpet, looking impeccable in one of Karl's classic color combos, black and white. The tennis icon donned this long-sleeved Gucci gown with white piping and a frothy tulle skirt, then topped it all off with layers of pearls.
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Gorgeous! Maude Apatow sought inspiration from a very particular Karl Lagerfeld design — the Chloe arrow dress from 1983. Her take on the dress was created by Gabriela Hearst, and included cutouts at the waist and a sleeveless design.
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Kerry Washington wowed in a three piece look from Michael Kors that included 135,000 sequins that were each individually stitched. And though we adored the subtle sparkle all over the bandeau, high-waisted mermaid-style skirt and blazer combo, we weren't feeling a real Karl Lagerfeld connection here. Nevertheless, let's check out her stunning jewels next…
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Kerry Washington accessorized her Michael Kors coordinates with a stunning Jardin Mysterieux Akoya Cultured Pearl and Diamond Necklace from MIKIMOTO. She also added rings from Butani and Joseph Saidian and Sons.
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We have absolutely no idea what tale this look was trying to tell. But we'll hand it to Kylie Jenner, her Jean Paul Gaultier gown certainly turned heads thanks to its bright coral hue. Aside from the captivating color (and the off contrast with the pale blue lining) this asymmetrical number was a strange choice for such an important fashion event with a theme most stars adhered to.
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Lily Collins tapped Vera Wang to create her Karl-inspired creation, selecting this ivory and black ballgown with detached sleeves and a center slit. But the real nod to Karl you couldn't see from the front…
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The back of Lily Collins' Vera Wang design featured KARL written out in sequins. And that wasn't the only spot she sported something sparkly…
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Lily Collins rocked Cartier jewels — including this stunning diamond necklace and drop earrings. A dark red lip completed her look.
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Glenn Close epitomized Karl Lagerfeld's lux glamour in this silver long-sleeved gown and cape from Eredem Moralioglu. A white collar and embellishments that fell like necklaces across her chest made this one standout on the radiant 76 year old.
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We loved seeing Yara Shahidi in this unexpected silhouette! The beauty sported a golden design from Jean Paul Gaultier, with a structured corset bodice and a pleated floor-length skirt with panels down the front and back, evoking supermodel glamour.
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Amber Valletta's barely-there gown included a whole lot of cutouts, an entirely sheer skirt, and billowy sheer sleeves. The underwhelming frock didn't seem to evoke any themes from Karl Lagerfeld's career, but we did appreciate her unique accessorizing…
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Amber Valletta added a whole lot of feathers and diamonds to her Met Gala ensemble, including earrings and a necklace from Brilliant Earth.
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Karl did love leather! Lily James paid homage by rocking one of the designer's favorite fabrics with an all-leather ballgown by Tamara Ralph Couture. The nod was sweet, but we weren't crazy about this black dress. She added blunt bangs and showed off a super dark hair shade for the big fashion night.
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We really appreciated Ashley Graham's gown's nod to '80s Chanel couture! The dramatic structured moment was a Harris Reed design — a strapless black and pink gown comprised of velvet and satin with some incredible shapes, including a pointed peplum detail and a mermaid-style skirt that ballooned at the knee for added glamour.
