Some of the Best (and Worst) Looks From the 2021 Met Gala

Outfits, looks and dresses reviewed by the Reflector’s Culture Editor

Erin Chambers, Culture Reporter
September 21, 2021

In true Vogue fashion, the Met Gala took place on the second Monday of September (aka last night). The 2021 exhibition was named In America: A Lexicon of Fashion and after more than a year of waiting, the stars’ looks were full of glam and some left us filled with questions.

Now, what is it that makes the Met Gala so magnificent? So captivating? So unlike the rest? Well, there are a few reasons. For those still in the dark, the Met Gala, formerly known as the Costume Institute, is an annual fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in Manhattan, New York; and iIt is considered one of the most prestigious and most exclusive events in the world. This one night in New York is considered the top event of the year by many, so it’s so clear as to why the stakes are so high when it comes to what to wear.

What started out as a unique fundraising event in 1948 has transformed into the couture fashion event of the year. It’s become sort of a spoken rule, that once someone has made it to the Met Gala, then they’ve “made it.”

And after a year delay of the event due to Covid-19, there were quite a few first timers in attendance last night, although it’s hard to tell with how incredible they all looked.

Let’s take a look at the best (and worst) looks from the 2021 Met Gala.

Olivia Rodrigo in Saint Laurent

The “deja vu” singer paid homage to American punk by sporting a black lace YSL bodysuit. While I wouldn’t want to see this on a seasoned Met Gala attendee (like Rihanna), I do love it on America’s new pop punk princess and first time attendee, Olivia Rodrigo.

Timothée Chalamet in Haider Ackermann, Rick Owens and Converse

Chalamet wore a tuxedo from the waist up and rocked a more casual, cozy look from the waist down. The Call Me By Your Name star completed his look with an attainable, American shoe, Converse. I think all of the items in this ensemble are giving, but it’s just not working together, 6/10.

Lil Nas X in Versace

Lil Nas X totally owned his first ever Met Gala outfit reveal by debuting his look in three (3!!!) parts (second look seen above), IMO. His debut was unique, but pleasantly memorable — just like him. Lil Nas X made this ensemble a 10/10.

Kim Petras in Collina Strada

Petras showed up to the Gala wearing a floor length gown topped with a head of a horse sculpture on the chest of the gown. I posted a poll for this look on my Instagram story and only 15% voted that they loved this look. I personally just can’t get behind this, but I do think it is very American, 2/10.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in Brother Vellies and Aurora James

Congresswoman AOC turned heads at the Gala last night in this white gown with “Tax the Rich” painted on the back. While many believe this fashion choice was a contradicting move, considering the Met Gala hosts some of the most notable people in the world. Personally? I think she looked great, 8/10.

Kim Kardashian in Balenciaga

The second oldest Kardashian daughter showed up the Met steps covered head-to-toe in black on Monday night. This look is very reminiscent of her and Kanye West’s many looks throughout the various listening parties for his album, “Donda”. Even completely covered, it is still so obvious that it’s Kim K., the modern American standard for beauty.

I created another poll on my Instagram story for this look, with 79% of viewers not in favor of the all black ensemble. I give this a 5/10.

Pete Davidson in Thom Browne

While predominantly dressed super casual (usually in sweats), Saturday Night Live star Pete Davidson kicked things up a notch for the Met Ball. Under his perfectly tailored egg-shell blazer is a black midi dress. His look is very business formal chic with a pop of punk attitude. This was one of my favorite looks from the night, 9/10.

Emma Chamberlain in Louis Vuitton

The YouTube star made her Met Gala debut in Louis Vuitton and it did not disappoint. The influencer, known for very indie and hip looks, looked as poised as ever on the Met steps. For me, this look is a 7/10.

Megan Fox in Dundas, Jimmy Choo and Lorraine Schwartz Jewelry

Megan Fox came in red hot at the 2021 Met Gala. I think it’s practically impossible to hate this look, 8/10.

Ciara in Peter Dundas

Ciara looked flawless in a lime green gown complete with a number three for hubby (and star quarterback) Russell Wilson. Her most priceless accessory? His Super Bowl ring. She looks absolutely stunning in green, 7.5/10.

Rihanna in Balenciaga Couture, Maria Tash and Thelma West and A$AP Rocky in ERL

Last but not least, we have (arguably) the most well dressed celebrity couple ever. A$AP Rocky sported a ‘Rags to Riches’ look, while Rihanna went for a glamorous gown and jewelry pairing. Their looks compliment each other, 7/10.