Teyana Taylor’s The Dirty Rose Pre-Met Burlesque Experience
Ahead of the Met Gala, Teyana Taylor set the tone with The Dirty Rose Pre-Met Burlesque Experience, a late-night showcase that blurred the lines between fashion, performance, and storytelling.
Rather than a standard pre-party, this was a fully realised concept built around her “Dirty Rose” persona, where corsetry, sheer layers and feathered accents were styled to move with the body and evolve throughout the night.
Ringleader Energy Meets After-Dark Glamour
The burlesque experience was hosted by Teyana’s All’s Fair co-stars Sarah Paulson and Naomi Watts, who both got into the spirit of the night. Sarah leaned into ringmaster energy in a sharp, tailored tuxedo styled with a top hat and statement jewels, delivering a cabaret-ready take that felt both commanding and playful. Meanwhile, Naomi went full burlesque in a red sequin mini dress, finished with a dramatic feathered shoulder detail, bringing classic showgirl codes to the event.
A Vintage Turn That Stands Out
Gabrielle Union dipped into the archives with a Roberto Cavalli Spring 2003 look, and it paid off. The saturated yellow and intricate print brought a welcome shift away from the muted tones she often favours, giving the look a fresh, high-energy appeal. It’s also worth noting that Haley Lu Richardson wore the same design earlier this year while promoting Ponies.
Archival Precision
Opting not to lean into the theatrics of the night, Hunter Schafer chose 1998 archival Alexander McQueen, letting the piece speak without over-styling it. I’m expecting a major moment from her this evening.
When Doing The Most, Works
Janelle Monáe wore Christian Siriano, bringing sculptural volume and sheer lace into sharp focus. The exaggerated, fan-like structure created a silhouette that held its own against the high-energy setting, while the sheer elements and corseted shape tied neatly into the burlesque theme.
Minimal With Edge
Jennie wore custom Ludovic de Saint Sernin, taking a more stripped-back route that still held attention. The clean lines, subtle grommet detailing at the neckline, and the fringe at the hem brought movement and attitude, giving it a sharp, after-dark energy that fit seamlessly within the mood of the night.
Tailoring With Attitude
Jeremy Pope stepped out in Egonlab, delivering a tailored look with a twist. I love how the styling gave it personality, striking that balance between classic and directional.
Where She Excels
Natasha Lyonne in Valentino Pre-Fall 2026 brought her signature mix of vintage and irreverence. The sequinned floral jacket, layered over lace and denim, felt deliberately mismatched in a way that only she can carry, adding a welcome sense of individuality to the lineup. She should be one of Alessandro Michele’s muses, because she consistently delivers in Valentino. But the same can be said in Chloé and Saint Laurent.
Déjà Dress
Serena Williams opted for a Magda Butrym grey dress, with the shape leaning very Stella McCartney.
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