The Met Gala After-Party Outfits That Felt Cooler Than The Carpet
I know everyone is talking about the art-inspired gowns worn up the glorious steps at the Metropolitan Museum’s annual fundraiser for the Costume Institute, but I think we should be zeroing in on the fun after-party looks as well. They are just as noteworthy, fabulous, and easy to recreate during your next night out.
Because here’s the thing, the late-night soirées are where the real style risks happen. The red carpet has rules (a theme, a dress code, the weight of a brand’s entire PR strategy resting on its shoulders). The post-gala festivities give celebs a chance to let their hair down a bit. It’s where Margot Robbie trades in her golden gown for Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel jeans (yes, I never thought I’d be writing a Met Gala story with the word jeans in it. Yet, excitingly here we are). It’s where Laura Harrier shows up in a peekaboo slip dress that feels sultry and effortlessly cool all at once. It’s where Annabelle Wallis proves that everyone should have a little Dôen dress in their closet for every occasion.
These are the looks that might not be in the highlight reels, but absolutely should. The ones that are actually wearable, actually shoppable, and honestly? Way more fun to copy. From bold color to goth girl black, here are the after-party outfits we’re still thinking about.
Margot Robbie
Leave it to Robbie to show up to the most glamorous fête in fashion wearing jeans and still somehow be the best-dressed person in the room. It’s proof that the tried-and-true “jeans and a cute top” combo will never let you down. Here she paired a sequin jacket over a classic tank top and jeans and used metallic sandals to solidify her winning look.
Laura Harrier
You can never go wrong with a little black dress. Harrier went full dark romance in a sheer lace number. The deep V-neckline, thigh slit, and strappy kitten heels kept things undeniably sultry, while the dark motif grounded it enough to feel intentional rather than costume-y. It’s the kind of dress that looks complicated to pull off but really only requires confidence. Pair it with a sleek bag, and you’re good to go.
Annabelle Wallis
Wallis made the strongest case for yellow we’ve seen all season. Her ruffle-tiered marigold maxi is exactly what we want to live in this summer. It has lots of movement, drama, and it photographs beautifully under any light. She layered the look with black accent pieces and golden jewelry for finishing touches. Keep this combination in mind for any upcoming weddings, birthday dinners, or soirées on the calendar.
Simone Ashley
Simone Ashley took black-on-black and made it anything but basic with a halterneck top and asymmetric skirt, all anchored with knee-high boots that immediately elevate the entire situation. It’s an outfit that walks the line between edgy and polished. If you’ve been waiting for permission to wear boots throughout the spring and summer, consider this your green light.
Imaan Hammam
The trendiest moment of them all? Lace-trimmed silk shorts paired with a windbreaker. Hammam showed us how it’s done in Saint Laurent, but you can recreate the look at a fraction of the price, thanks to brands like Intimissimi and Zella.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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