The Most Stunning Plus-Size Looks In Met Gala History

The late André Leon Talley, former Vogue editor-at-large and Met Gala red carpet correspondent, always wore his best ‘fits at the annual event. In 2011, as a tribute to Alexander McQueen, he wore a vibrant violet silk kaftan and buckled red shoes.

In 2017, with the theme “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons: Art Of The In-Between,” model Ashley Graham turned heads in this frilly red-and-white number with a corset-style skirt by H&M.

Lizzo nailed 2019’s “camp” theme with neon pink hair and a pink marabou coat by Marc Jacobs. It literally deson’t get more camp than that.

Am I the only one who thinks Elsesser’s 2021 Zac Posen Old Hollywood gown (and makeup) gave serious Queen of Hearts vibes? In the best possible way.

In a frothy tulle number equipped with floral appliques and embroidery, beauty YouTuber Nikki de Jager paid homage to trans activist Marsha P. Johnson.

With power shoulders, an exaggerated silhouette, and braided fringe, Precious Lee chicly channeled the zoot suit — with origins in ‘30s-era Harlem — in a suit dress by Area.

I’m still thinking about Euphoria star Barbie Ferreira’s pearl-encrusted flapper gown by Jonathan Simkhai from the 2021 Met Gala. Her beaded fringe swayed as she walked up the stairs for an absoutely dazzling vision.

At last year’s fete, Nicola Coughlin served “gilded glamour” in a black and pink Richard Quinn number with exaggerated sleeves and feathers. Paired with a cape and opera gloves? She would’ve made Lady Whistledown proud.

At the 2022 shindig, model Paloma Elsesser channeled Courtney Love for her underwear-as-outerwear-inspired ‘fit by Coach. Creative Director Stuart Vevers even repurposed silk and lace dresses from the ‘30s to fashion her vintage-style corset and boudoir-like slip.

Lizzo aced the “gilded glamour” theme in an opulent gold-embroidered cape by Thom Browne that she threw on top of a black bustier gown, also by the designer. The musician completed the look with her favorite accessory: her flute.

Theater actors sure know how to bring drama to any event. Take Tony winner Alex Newell’s Christian Siriano masterpiece at the 2023 bash. With an exaggerated hip and bustier bodice, topped with a supersized hat (covered in floral appliqués), their Met Gala debut couldn’t have been chicer.

To honor Karl Lagerfeld, Lizzo wore custom Chanel (naturally) inspired by one of his ’90s-era creations. The “Truth Hurts” singer wholly embraced the pearl motif with her gown, jewelry, and even boots.

Graham’s glimmering chainmail number was designed by Ludovic de Saint Sernin, and as Vogue’s red carpet host shared on Instagram, the look took 500 hours to make. Worth it, TBH.

Paloma Elsesser made a powerful statement at the 2024 Met Gala in a custom H&M creation, featuring a silk skirt and 3D-printed bodice. “So many classical statues represent a certain body type that is timeless, but not as present today,” she told Harper’s Bazaar of her two-piece ensemble. “So I wanted to lean into that, and transform myself and my body into a monument in my own way.”