A Look at Some of the Most Iconic Red Carpet Looks of All Time

Red carpet events have long been the stage for celebrities to showcase their fashion, and some looks have transcended the moment, becoming iconic symbols of style, glam, and pop culture.

These moments aren’t just about the dresses—they reflect the star's personality, the era’s trends, and the zeitgeist of their time.

From Marilyn Monroe’s dazzling gold gown to Zendaya’s daring crop top at the Met Gala, these red carpet moments have sparked conversations, set trends, and influenced fashion history.

Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic red carpet looks that still leave us in awe and define the meaning of "show-stopping."

1. Marilyn Monroe - 1962, JFK's Birthday

Marilyn Monroe’s shimmering gold dress designed by Jean Louis at JFK's 45th birthday is etched in fashion history. Even though the event was not a red carpet, it had to make the list since it is so iconic. The strapless, skin-tight gown hugged her curves perfectly and enhanced her luminous beauty, making her a vision of glamour. The dress was so form-fitting, in fact, that it had to be sewn onto her body before she walked out. Talk about commitment!

2. Audrey Hepburn - 1954 Academy Awards

Audrey Hepburn's classic, understated elegance has never been more evident than in her floral white Givenchy dress at the 1954 Academy Awards. Plus - Hepburn won an Academy Award for Best Actress that night for her role in Roman Holiday. Hepburn’s style, defined by simplicity and grace, was perfectly captured in this look, which was as timeless as the actress herself. Her ability to captivate with minimalism is something many designers still try to emulate today.

3. Princess Diana - 1994 Serpentine Gallery Gala

Princess Diana broke royal fashion rules in 1994 when she stepped out in a striking black revenge dress by Christina Stambolian. Worn on the night Prince Charles publicly admitted to his affair, Diana’s choice of the fitted, off-the-shoulder number showed her strength, confidence, and impeccable taste. It became an emblem of the Princess's unshakable grace, even in the face of personal turmoil.

4. Beyoncé - 2015 Met Gala

When Beyoncé walked the red carpet at the 2015 Met Gala, everyone took notice. Her stunning sheer Givenchy gown, adorned with intricate beading, created the illusion of a second skin. The intricate detail combined with her bold confidence made this look one of the most unforgettable of the evening, reinforcing Beyoncé’s status as a fashion icon.

5. Lady Gaga - 2010 MTV Video Music Awards

Lady Gaga made a bold fashion statement at the 2010 MTV VMAs with her infamous meat dress, designed by Franc Fernandez. While many questioned the controversial look, it turned heads and sparked conversation worldwide, making it one of the most talked-about outfits in pop culture history. Lady Gaga proved, yet again, that she was never afraid to push the boundaries of fashion.

6. Zendaya - 2019 Met Gala

Zendaya took the 2019 Met Gala by storm when she stepped onto the carpet in a Cinderella-inspired Tommy Hilfiger gown. The dress had a magical, fairytale-like feel, and when paired with a glowing blue light-up detail, it created an unforgettable moment. Zendaya's youthful energy and her ability to have fun with fashion made this one of her best red carpet moments.

7. Rihanna - 2015 Met Gala

Rihanna’s yellow Guo Pei gown at the 2015 Met Gala is still one of the most memorable red carpet moments of all time. The gown, with its extravagant train and intricate embroidery, was a work of art, making Rihanna look like a true queen. Her confidence in the daring look—along with the dramatic entrance—solidified this as one of fashion's most iconic moments.

8. Cher - 1986 Oscars

Cher’s Bob Mackie-designed outfit at the 1986 Oscars made history. The elaborate, sheer black dress with sequins and feathers was bold and daring, just like Cher herself. The ensemble, which looked like something from another world, made an unforgettable statement about Cher's individuality and her place in pop culture.

9. J.Lo - 2000 Grammy Awards

Jennifer Lopez's green Versace dress at the 2000 Grammy Awards became one of the most talked-about looks in fashion history. The plunging neckline and tropical print dress left a lasting impression, becoming synonymous with her fashion legacy. It was bold, daring, and proved that J.Lo wasn’t afraid to make a statement.

10. Kate Middleton - 2011 Royal Wedding

While this might not be the traditional red carpet, Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen wedding dress at her 2011 wedding to Prince William was undeniably iconic. The lace sleeves, fitted bodice, and full skirt were fit for a modern-day princess, setting the standard for royal wedding gowns. It was both timeless and contemporary, blending tradition with modern elegance.

11. Naomi Campbell - 1995 Met Gala

Naomi Campbell’s appearance at the 1995 Met Gala in a shimmering silver Versace gown cemented her place in fashion history. With a stunnign neckline and body-hugging silhouette, the supermodel embodied glamour and confidence, showcasing the boldness that defined ‘90s fashion.

12. Blake Lively - 2018 Met Gala

Blake Lively owned the 2018 Met Gala red carpet with a show-stopping, intricate Versace gown. The flowing dress, adorned with embroidery and beading, paid homage to the evening's "Heavenly Bodies" theme. Lively’s radiant energy and impeccable styling made her one of the standout stars of the event.