So how, exactly, will guests of the 2024 Met Gala interpret the dress code? While there are many ways into “The Garden of Time” theme, which was how guests were instructed to fashion themselves on the First Monday in May, the most obvious route is: Florals, for spring. What could be lovelier than a floral dress, really? Taking a look back at red carpets past reveals a medley of floribunda-filled fashion that can be plucked for inspiration.
Vogue’s Guide to Met Gala-Inspired Floral Fashions:
Within the floral category are many subcategories. One could opt for a moody floral, with flower sprays twisting on a black background in a Victoriana flair. They could be more peppy and go the tea-room floral vibe with English-looking cabbage roses in antiqued colors. Perhaps they want to be a rose—literally—with larger-than-life roses unfurling on their person. 3-D florals are another option—and they make maximum impact. Or if you’re less a garden girl and more a beach person, how about something more tropical? Hibusucis blooms, palm fronds, maybe a parrot? (See Zendaya in 2017).
Below, we’ve pulled an assortment of looks that fit the many interpretations of florals. Even if you’re not going to the Met Gala, why not turn up to your next event in the Met Gala spirit?
Our favorite florals for spring, below.
Lily Aldridge in Richard Quinn, 2019Taylor Hill
Moody Florals
So you’re into gardens, but you also have an edge. Consider a moody, melancholic floral. Any flower print on a black background will do.
Rachel Brosnahan in Erdem, 2019Kevin Mazur/MG19/Getty Images
Tea Room Florals
For something quintessentially English, opt for a chintzy floral that looks just as great on a plump couch with a dust ruffle as it would on a gown.
Amal Clooney in Richard Quinn, 2018Rabbani and Solimene Photography/Getty Images
Roses Are Red
For a dramatic take on florals, go bold with a look that features crimson, scarlet, and tomato-colored roses. Any style would be just as sweet.
Karen Elson in Christian Siriano, 2023Taylor Hill/Getty Images
3-D Florals
Add some texture with the 3-D floral look—a trend that arrived in 2023 and is still going strong. It’s also the perfect way to do florals for the print-averse.
Zendaya in Dolce & Gabbana, 2017J. Kempin/Getty Images
Tropical Florals
If florals are too sweet for you—consider something with a more easy-going spirit, like the tropical floral. You’ll feel like you’re on holiday, no matter where you are.