With a theme like Camp: Notes on Fashion, this year’s Met Gala had the stars showing up and showing out in all things theatrical. While Lady Gaga went for the gold with a 16-minute entrance and four-part outfit change, Zendaya was transformed into Cinderella, right there on the red carpet, as Cardi B needed a ten-man entourage just for the train of her Thom Browne gown.
And let’s not forget Katy Perry, who drew comparisons to Lumière of Beauty and the Beast, courtesy of that chandelier dress, before wrapping up the night as a life-size cheeseburger. But aforementioned madness aside, we spotted a tribute so ubiquitous that it practically could’ve been this year’s theme. Hint: she has long been Kim Kardashian’s style icon.
If it wasn’t already obvious, Cher – a queen of camp in her own right – not only brought down the house with a surprise performance at the Met, but also inspired a multitude of the outfits worn on Monday night. With a wardrobe archive that spans decades, the pop icon has never been one to shy away from an “extra” aesthetic, with her love for feathers, jewels, headdresses, and skin-baring ensembles well-documented and oft-imitated. Speaking of which, we’re looking back at some of the most ‘Cher’ looks from the Met Gala, including Kendall Jenner’s feathered number by Versace, Gigi Hadid’s angelic bodysuit by Michael Kors, and more.
Ciara in Peter Dundas
Inspiration: Cher at the 1988 Academy Awards, flaunting both her sheer Bob Mackie gown and her Oscar for Best Actress.
Jennifer Lopez in Versace
Inspiration: Cher wearing a beaded headpiece on the cover of her album Prisoner in 1979.
Emily Ratajkowski in Peter Dundas
Inspiration: Cher posing for a portrait in what was considered an incredibly daring look for the 1970s.
Gigi Hadid in Michael Kors
Inspiration: Cher, in character as Laverne, taking a tour of Liberace’s Hollywood Hills mansion in 1974.
Kylie and Kendall Jenner in Versace
Inspiration: Cher in an embroidered Bob Mackie bodysuit at the 1974 Met Gala.
Billy Porter in The Blonds
Inspiration: Cher channeling Cleopatra for Bob Mackie’s halloween party in 1988.