The Met Gala isn’t just fashion’s biggest night—it’s a battleground of bold statements, unforgettable themes, and, increasingly, celebrity tributes to icons past. While many stars chase originality, others embrace reinvention—drawing inspiration from fashion legends and pop culture moments that shaped generations. The result? Dazzling look-alikes, artistic interpretations, and endless debates over who nailed the homage and who missed the mark.

Let’s take a glam stroll through some of the most talked-about Met Gala tributes—and ask the question we’re all thinking: who wore it best?

Kendall Jenner Channels Audrey Hepburn: A Class Act or Costume Drama?

In 2021, Kendall Jenner stunned in a sheer, crystal-encrusted Givenchy gown that echoed the elegance of Audrey Hepburn’s My Fair Lady look. The resemblance was unmistakable—from the high neckline to the delicate beading.

But was it homage or high fashion cosplay?

Kendall’s tribute was sleek, polished, and undeniably beautiful. Yet, it sparked a divide: some praised her for respecting Hollywood royalty, while others questioned whether it lacked originality. Still, few can deny that she modernized Hepburn’s charm with supermodel confidence.

Video: Kendall Jenner on Her Classic Hollywood-Inspired Look by Audrey Hepburn’s My Fair Lady look

Kim Kardashian vs. Cher: The Battle of the Bead

Long before her controversial Marilyn Monroe dress moment, Kim Kardashian walked the 2015 Met Gala red carpet in a sheer Roberto Cavalli gown dripping in beads—strikingly similar to Cher’s 1974 Bob Mackie masterpiece.

Kim has often referred to Cher as her fashion muse, and this look was her ultimate fan-girl moment brought to life.

While Cher’s original ensemble defined an era, Kim’s version was a bold update with her own signature glam twist. It reignited the style for a new generation—but did it surpass the original? That’s where opinions split like a thigh-high slit.

Zendaya’s Joan of Arc Look: Armor or Art?

Few Met Gala appearances live rent-free in our heads like Zendaya’s 2018 custom Versace ensemble, crafted in metallic armor and inspired by Joan of Arc. Though it perfectly suited the “Heavenly Bodies” theme, fans couldn’t help but draw parallels to Madonna’s 1990 Blonde Ambition tour.

The structured silhouette, bold shoulders, and spiritual edge were hard to ignore.

Zendaya didn’t just wear a look—she embodied a narrative. While Madonna’s take was provocative and raw, Zendaya’s was poetic and cinematic. This wasn’t about copying—it was about evolving an icon into a red carpet warrior queen.

Billie Eilish as Marilyn Monroe: Sweet Simplicity or Star Power?

In 2021, Billie Eilish surprised everyone with a transformation that shook the Met Gala. Gone were the baggy clothes—instead, she appeared in a sweeping peach Oscar de la Renta gown, channeling Marilyn Monroe’s old-Hollywood glamour.

The platinum hair, sweetheart neckline, and timeless grace? All Monroe.

Yet Billie added her own flavor: vulnerability, softness, and intention. She used the moment not just for shock value but to assert her evolving identity. Was it a stronger tribute than Kim’s later Monroe moment? Some say yes—for its subtlety and sincerity.

Kylie Jenner’s Wedding Look: A Streetwear Fairytale?

At the 2022 Met Gala, Kylie Jenner wore a bridal gown by Off-White, paired with a backwards baseball cap and veil—a tribute to the late Virgil Abloh. While not a direct recreation of a past look, the ensemble reflected Abloh’s signature “streetwear meets couture” vision.

The look was polarizing. Some called it genius. Others… not so much.

Still, it was meaningful. Kylie didn’t just wear a dress—she honored a designer who changed fashion’s rules. Whether or not the look worked aesthetically, it struck a powerful emotional chord.

Jared Leto as Choupette and Karl Lagerfeld: Too Far or Too Fabulous

Leave it to Jared Leto to deliver not one, but two jaw-dropping tributes at the 2023 Met Gala. First, he arrived dressed as Choupette, Karl Lagerfeld’s beloved cat (yes, really). Then, later that night, he returned in a full Lagerfeld-inspired ensemble, complete with black suit, white collar, and signature shades.

Was it outrageous? Absolutely. But was it on-theme and unforgettable? Without question.

While other celebs honored Lagerfeld with elegance (think Gigi Hadid, Cara Delevingne), Jared went full performance art—and whether you loved it or hated it, you couldn’t look away.

Why These Homages Matter in Fashion Today

In an industry obsessed with newness, paying tribute to the past can be a bold move. These looks aren’t just “copy-paste” moments—they’re reinterpretations, respectful nods, and sometimes, reimagined storytelling. They connect generations of fashion lovers, bridging the gap between vintage glam and modern expression.

When a celeb channels an icon, they take a risk. If done poorly, it feels lazy. If done well, it becomes a cultural moment that lives forever in red carpet history.

Who Really Wore It Best? The Verdict’s Yours

Video: Celebrity Style Showdown: Who Wore It Better?

Here’s the truth: fashion isn’t a competition—it’s a conversation. Each of these celebrities brought their own voice to an already powerful look. Some whispered. Some shouted. Some rewrote the entire script.

So… who wore it best?

• Was Kendall’s Hepburn moment elegance reincarnated?
• Did Kim outshine Cher or simply reintroduce her to Gen Z?
• Did Zendaya elevate Joan of Arc to divine fashion heights?
• Was Billie’s Monroe the most heartfelt tribute of them all?
• Did Kylie’s Off-White gown speak louder than words?
• And did Jared Leto steal the show—twice?

We’ll let you decide.

Conclusion: Fashion Imitation or Inspired Evolution?

In the glitzy world of the Met Gala, originality reigns—but homage has its own kind of power. When stars channel legends, it’s more than dress-up. It’s cultural memory stitched into fabric, sewn into style.

These tributes keep the legacy of fashion alive, sparking debates, admiration, and sometimes a bit of shock. Whether they nailed it or not, one thing’s for sure: they got us talking.

And in the world of fashion, that is the ultimate win.