Let’s take a look back at the guys who have made an impact at the Met Gala over the past 10 years
The anticipation for this year’s Met Gala is off the charts as the big night rapidly approaches. With each passing year, the stairs of the Met have been graced by jaw-dropping silhouettes, killer looks, and bold styles. This year, the anticipation is even more heightened as we await the fashion choices of men who are guaranteed to grab attention. In the meantime, let’s take a moment to remember those who graced the Met Gala with their iconic style over the past decade.
Jared Leto and Alessandro Michelle, 2022
Together with none other than then-Gucci’s Creative Director, Alessandro Michele, Jared Leto made a grand entrance that was sure to be remembered for years to come. They wore matching cream and black outfits that were perfectly paired with black leather gloves, clutch bags, pink bow ties, and shades. Michele and Leto’s exquisite style, daring use of color, and meticulous attention to detail definitely left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts and critics alike.
Lil Nas X, 2021
At the 2021 Met Gala, Lil Nas X stole the show with a three-piece Atelier Versace outfit. With the help of his team, he started with a bold cloak covered in gold beading that definitely made a statement on the red carpet. He then revealed a regal, futuristic suit of armor before ending in a jeweled catsuit. It was a spectacular debut that showcased the singer’s creativity and fearless style.
Jeremy Pope, 2021
Jeremy Pope showed up wearing an all-white Dion Lee off-the-shoulder outfit that held a deeper meaning. The actor said on Instagram that he was wearing the uniform of slaves, with the train resembling a cotton picking sack. The outfit was a tribute to the resilience of slaves who endured the harsh realities of America’s painful connection between cotton and slavery. Pope’s powerful message added a meaningful layer to the event and surely sparked important discussions.
Jared Leto, 2019
Although we aimed to avoid repetition on this list, there’s no denying that Jared Leto owned the Met Gala in 2019. The actor carried a replica of his own head, and donned a striking flame-colored tunic with padded shoulders, a front ruffle, and crystal-strewn body jewelry. Leto’s dramatic arrival undoubtedly turned heads and solidified his status as a fashion icon.
Chadwick Boseman, 2018
With arguably one of the most memorable themes ever, the late Chadwick Boseman made a regal entrance on the red carpet. The Black Panther star opted for a clean white button-down shirt and blazer, paired with ivory pants and a cape adorned with gold crosses and other embellishments.
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Rami Malek, 2017
While many opted for the classic black and white suits, Rami Malek took a bold fashion risk when he wore a vibrant red custom Dior Homme tuxedo, accentuated with a black floral corsage and sleek jet-black shoes. This ensemble perfectly complemented that year’s theme of honoring Comme des Garcons’ founder, Rei Kawakubo.
Zayn Malik, 2016
Zayn Malik wowed everyone in 2016 when he stepped out in a custom Versace suit with molded metal arms. According to the singer, Donatella Versace asked him to design his own costume for the event. “I know it’s a big deal in the fashion industry. Anna Wintour obviously runs the whole thing, so it was an honor to even get to go. I was asked to design my own costume by Donatella Versace!” Malik shared.
Justin Bieber, 2015
Following the evening’s theme, Justin Bieber made a strong arrival at the 2015 Met Gala. He wore a black custom Balmain coat adorned with golden dragon embroidery, paired with a sleek side-buttoned shirt and textured cummerbund.
Benedict Cumberbatch, 2014
2014 was definitely one of the hardest years for men at the Met Gala, but Benedict Cumberbatch effortlessly rose to the occasion. He looked dapper in a sharp outfit that earned the approval of Anna Wintour herself. Wintour acknowledged in an interview that the “Charles James: Beyond Fashion” theme posed a challenge for most men at the event, and Cumberbatch was the only one who successfully pulled off the white tie look.
PSY, 2013
Korean superstar PSY rocked the 2013 MET Gala in a red and black checkered tuxedo jacket, paired with a crisp white shirt, black pants, and his iconic bow tie and sunglasses. Also known for his unconventional style and brightly colored tuxedos, the singer’s invitation to show off his unique sense of fashion on the red carpet was no surprise.
