**Blake Lively: A Fashion Icon Through the Years at the Met Gala**
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Since making her debut at the Met Gala in 2008, Blake Lively has become synonymous with glamour and style, consistently stealing the spotlight with her stunning fashion choices. The actress, best known for her role in the iconic television series *Gossip Girl*, has attended the prestigious event nearly every year, captivating audiences with a series of exquisite outfits that often pay homage to the themes of the night.
Lively’s first appearance at the Met Gala was alongside her then-boyfriend and co-star Penn Badgley. For this inaugural event, she chose a captivating strapless black gown by Ralph Lauren, featuring a thrilling trumpet skirt adorned with feathers. The ensemble, complete with black gloves and sparkling bracelets, marked the beginning of her journey as a fashion maven on the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
In 2009, the theme was “The Model as Muse”, and Lively showcased her ability to encapsulate the spirit of the night by donning a striking blue gown from Versace. This stunning piece seemed tailored for her character Serena van der Woodsen, combining elegance and youthful charm, while minimalist hair and accessories allowed the dress to shine brilliantly.
The following year brought a more playful vibe as she donned a vibrant lapis blue minidress designed by Marchesa at the 2010 gala. Lively often gravitated towards Marchesa for its whimsical designs, and this appearance was no exception, as she accessorised her look with dazzling pieces from renowned jeweller Lorraine Schwartz.
Lively continued to impress the fashion world in 2011 with an exquisite embroidered gown from Chanel Haute Couture. This ethereal grey dress, complemented by Christian Louboutin sandals, perfectly showcased her auburn tresses and channelled a distinct Grecian goddess aesthetic that stood out on the night.
The 2013 Met Gala embraced a punk theme, and Lively embraced the challenge with a daring strapless gown by Gucci Première that featured an elaborate feather-and-organza skirt. With smoky eye makeup adding to her edginess, she perfectly embodied the night’s rebellious spirit, proving her versatility as a fashion icon.
A major highlight of her Met Gala journey came in 2014 when she attended with her husband Ryan Reynolds for their first official red carpet appearance as a couple. Lively dazzled in a form-fitting blushing Gucci Première gown with a dramatic train that evoked a sense of Old Hollywood glamour. In a light-hearted moment, she remarked on the challenges of managing such a gown while climbing the famed Met steps.
As the years progressed, Lively continued to surprise and delight fashion enthusiasts with her bold choices. In 2016, while expecting her second child, she wore a striking Burberry gown that mirrored the muted tones of the Met Gala steps, showcasing her commitment to both style and creativity.
The couple returned to the event in 2017 dressed to impress, as Lively wore an opulent gold Atelier Versace dress adorned with blue feathers. This coordinating outfit with Reynolds, whose tie matched her gown, highlighted their stylish partnership and adored aesthetic.
In 2018, Lively took the Met Gala by storm with a show-stopping custom Versace gown paired with a halo designed by Lorraine Schwartz. The striking ensemble, crafted for the theme “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” featured a grand train that seemed to be made especially for the grand staircase, earning her accolades as one of the best-dressed of the night.
The 2022 Met Gala saw Lively co-chair the event with Reynolds, Regina King, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Lively made a stunning statement in an extravagant Atelier Versace gown, crowned with opera gloves and accessorised with drop earrings. A dramatic costume change took place mid-event, showcasing a stunning blue train that flowed effortlessly behind her.
Most recently, at the 2026 Met Gala, Lively graced the event in a breathtaking Atelier Versace gown from spring 2006, featuring an impressive 13-foot train. Keeping her beauty look polished with gentle curls and subtle makeup, she accessorised with a unique Judith Leiber couture bag decorated with artwork created by her four children, adding a personal touch to her glamorous ensemble.
With each appearance at the Met Gala, Blake Lively has not just showcased her style evolution but has also solidified her status as a fashion icon who expertly interprets the event’s themes while exuding a distinct and timeless elegance. As anticipation builds for future events, fans and fashion enthusiasts alike can only wonder what stunning creation Lively will unveil next.