Giorgio Armani Looks From The Met Gala That Left People Speechless

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When you think of high fashion, Giorgio Armani is one of the first names that comes to mind. The native Italian started making a name for himself in the '70s, creating androgynous looks that became his signature style. "I was the first to soften the image of men, and harden the image of women. I dressed men in women's fabrics, and stole from men what women wanted and needed — the power suit," Armani wrote in "Giorgio Armani," his 2015 biography (via Marie Claire). Since then, the late designer, who passed away in early September 2025 at the age of 91, had been a go-to for many celebrities' red carpet looks, particularly at the Met Gala, aka the fashion event of the year.

Getting invited to the Met Gala is a badge of honor that stars take seriously. Anna Wintour famously decides who gets a coveted seat — and which celebs must watch the festivities from home. Of course, getting to wear an Armani creation is a double win, and in honor of his legacy, we've gathered a few of his best looks worn by our favorite famous faces at the Met Gala.

The 2008 Met Gala theme was "Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy," and while Victoria Beckham may not have looked like a Marvel character, she gave understated elegance in her sheer white dress. Giorgio Armani stayed true to his menswear roots with a dramatic high collar and lapels, but he incorporated feminine touches with lace detailing and a thigh-high slit. The long sash gave the gown a robe-like effect, which Beckham accessorized with timeless strappy heels that are perfect for summer outfits.

Not only did Julia Roberts get to wear a Giorgio Armani gown to the 2008 Met Gala, but she also strutted the red carpet with the iconic fashion designer. That year, Armani was an honorary chair, with Roberts and George Clooney as co-chairs, which meant the "Pretty Woman" had to step up her sartorial game — and she did. Roberts was the epitome of elegance in her shimmery, silver floor-length dress that featured a cowl neck. Sure, the gown wasn't as outrageous as some of the stunning Met Gala looks that we'll never forget, but Roberts' sparkly sheath had beauty in its simplicity.

For Giorgio Armani, 2008 was a big year. Katie Holmes was another A-list celeb who wore the couturier's creations at the Met Gala, and she wowed in her strapless red gown emblazoned with sequins. The bodice hugged her perfectly, while the layered skirt draped over Holmes' figure and fell to her ankles. As if the bright scarlet color wasn't shocking enough, the "Dawson's Creek" star paired the dress with a pair of cobalt-blue heels. With her chic bob and shiny gold jewelry, Holmes was one of the best-dressed that night.

George Clooney cut a striking figure at the 2008 Met Gala in his dapper Giorgio Armani tux, and his then-girlfriend, Sarah Larson, didn't look too shabby either. The "Fear Factor" winner was clad in an Armani creation of her own, wearing an elegant, one-shouldered gown with dramatic silver swirls. Adding to her chic look was a thick diamond bracelet, chandelier earrings, and a gorgeous metallic clutch. This dress is close to vintage by now, but the classic design could be reworn for years to come and still look timeless.

Giorgio Armani just knew how to flatter the female figure, as was evident with his whimsical mermaid-like gown worn by Camilla Belle at the 2008 Met Gala. The layers of silky fabric draped over the "Amapola" star's body in freeform shapes, with the long hemline trailing behind her. The strap on Belle's right shoulder was an extra-fun touch that resembled fish scales, adding to the ocean theme. She kept her look monochromatic with teal and blue jewelry that matched her dress, making the actor the belle of the ball that night.