The Met Gala returned with a bang this year, putting the disruptions and delays of the past two years firmly behind it. For those lucky enough to receive an invitation, focus turns to the all-important dress code. For the rest of us, we can only admire the most legendary, daring, and momentous moments in fashion from afar, oohing and aahing over the red carpet looks and wondering how to recreate them for less.

The elegant event marks the opening of the Costume Institute’s annual exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where the rich and famous strut their stuff in interpretations of this year’s dress code: Gilded Glamour.

With the greatest night in fashion just weeks away, new research by Fenwick has analysed 2022 search data to discover the looks people are still gushing (or gagging!) over from each Met Gala over the last ten years, as well as which fashion trends are rising.

The fashion retailer discovered that Kim Kardashian’s Met Gala looks remain the most momentous. Search data shows the reality star, socialite, and businesswoman as the most memorable attendee over the past decade.

Most Memorable Met Gala Looks of the Last Decade

• 2012: Gwyneth Paltrow, Prada (5,520 searches)
• 2013: Kim Kardashian, Givenchy (6,240 searches)
• 2014: Beyoncé, Givenchy (9,600 searches)
• 2015: Rihanna, Guo Pei (38,880 searches)
• 2016: Madonna, Givenchy (32,280 searches)
• 2017: Kim Kardashian, Vivienne Westwood (98,760 searches)
• 2018: Chadwick Boseman, Atelier Versace (131,760 searches)
• 2019: Kylie Jenner, Versace (199,320 searches)
• 2021: Kim Kardashian, Balenciaga – Demna Gvasalia (1,693,200 searches)

Equivalent to annual search volume in 2022*

This year, Kim Kardashian and her VIP clan have a dress code that invites bold and daring choices – something Kim has never shied away from. From her floral Givenchy maternity gown in 2013 to her all-black Balenciaga appearance in 2021, the fashion icon always gives critics something to discuss.

Further research from Fenwick highlights anticipation for Kim Kardashian’s take on Gilded Glamour. Searches for “Kim Kardashian Met Gala 2022” are climbing since the announcement, making her the most searched celebrity for the event.

Regency Core Inspiration

If in doubt, Met Gala attendees need look no further than the beloved Netflix series Bridgerton for all the Regency Core inspiration needed to fulfil the glam dress code.

This fashion trend is poised to return, offering us all a chance to embrace Gilded Glamour via the high street. While you might not fancy an empire-waisted gown, there are endless ways to add Met Gala grandeur and opulence to your wardrobe.

Fenwick Department Store reveals a 186.92% increase in online demand for Regency fashion over the past year, based on recent UK search trends. The study notes a popularity spike ahead of Bridgerton’s second season, which aired on Friday 25 March, with searches for Regency dresses up 175% since December.

With Regency fashion search terms nearly tripling since the start of 2022 (+194.80%), British fashion enthusiasts are ready to embrace the “Regency Core” trend with its frills and ruffles.

Host Your Own Met Gala Soirée

Why not host your own Met Gala-worthy soirée and watch the glitz and glam from home? Introduce these elegant fashion choices to your wardrobe and satisfy your Regency style cravings.

Experiment with variations, starting with a key accessory and building to a full Regency Core outfit. Shimmering gold and bejewelled earrings? Check. Adorned with feathers, bows, and frills? Check. Silks, satins, and velvets in rich tones? Check. You will go to the ball!