I've decided this is the year I'm finally going to make a list of birthday trip ideas to ring in my — gulp — 33rd birthday. I'm not really afraid of getting older, but 2012 still feels like it was yesterday...minus the fact I don't recover from hangovers as quickly as I used to. Regardless, your annual trip around the sun is the perfect time to celebrate yourself by getting out and exploring the world around you. So here are the best birthday trip ideas for every major birthday milestone. Happy travels!
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Turning 21 is one of the first big milestones of adulthood. It's the age you finally become legal and it seems to cement the fact that you're officially out of your teens. One of the best birthday trip ideas I think makes this age so special is taking a road trip with your besties.
I have a few fond memories of traveling to Panama City Beach, FL with one of my best friends during my early twenties that stick out more than our random club nights. You get to cement your bond with a fun early 2000s playlistfull of everyone from Kelly Clarkson to Gwen Stefani!
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What do you get when you mix a little glam with camping; glamping. This works if you want to be close to nature without feeling like you've a part of a lost episode of Fear Factor. Instead, you'll have the option of lodging in airstreams, barns, cabins, and more.
When you're not relaxing in your cute little airstream or cabin, you have the option of canoeing, experiencing an ATV excursion, bonding around a campfire, going hiking, or even trying your hand at fly-fishing (here's looking at you Sandy Cheeks from Spongebob Squarepants).
The best part about it is that you get to wear your cute floral pajamas at night!
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You may be turning 21 but you can still let your inner child run free with a trip to Disney World — especially if you've never been. You can spend time in the air on the Avatar Flight of Passage ride or Meet Princess Tiana from The Princess & The Frog. You can even enjoy Cirque du Soleil's immersive experience!
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I didn't go to NYC for the first time until I was 23, but it's still a core memory that I love to revisit. I definitely a typical tourist taking in all the sights and amazing food, but it was so much fun. I initially stayed in Manhattan the first time I went, but later visited Queens, SoHo, and Brooklyn.
Honestly, there's so many things to do in NYC that it's impossible to fit everything in one weekend. Brit + Co's Content Editor Haley Sprankle suggests going to East Village or Williamsburg for the first time. For brunch, take a trip to Balthazar on Spring Street and Rezdôra for dinner.
P.S. If you're looking for authentic Italian, she also suggests Il Mulino for dinner!
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Turning 30 is another milestone that's worth celebrating because you're a decade older! Ease your way into a chapter by visiting Barcelona with your S.O. You can stop by Badiani 1932 to get Italian Gelato before heading to La Sagrada Família (Church of the Sacred Family) or walking around the Barri Gòtic.
You'll get your 10,000 steps in while making memories with your love in Spain.
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Going to London is another one of those birthday trip ideas that everyone should experience at least once. I know visiting Big Ben is definitely on your list, but there's one thing I think is worth splurging on — the Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport From London! It usually sells out so you'll have to be quick if you're thinking about buying tickets!
You can also embark on the Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London to see everything from Queen Mary's doll house to the beautiful gardens found on the property.
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If you're tired of hangovers and want to actually remember the things you're doing, it's time to embrace drinking wine. Step into this new chapter by taking a trip to the vineyard where you'll be able to enjoy beautiful scenery while sipping new delectable wines.
Martha's Vineyard and Napa Valley are one of the more popular choices, but you can also see if there are local vineyards where you live!
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Ready to have your own Emily in Paris moment with your best friend? Well, book a trip to Paris! Besides indulging in flavorful foods that your taste buds will fall in love with, you can enjoy a trip to the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and have fun on a Seine River Dinner Cruise.
Be sure to take lots of pictures and BTS videos so you can relive your time in the beautiful capital of France.
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If you've never had time to catch your breath between being married, raising kids, or thriving in your career, it's time to become a solo traveler as you enter your 40s. Visit the Acropolis Museum or take advantage of Athens Half-Day Sight-Seeing Tour. The tour is a little over three hours and will introduce you to sights like Parthenon temple and the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
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Not into the idea of traveling solo? That's totally okay! You can always relax on a nice cruise that takes you across the Caribbean. From eating delicious foods while looking casually out at the ocean to meeting new friends during Bingo night, you'll be able to move around on your own accord.
And you won't forget the unforgettable music and parties that are onboard!
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Now this sounds like my kind of party! Take a break from the outside world by renting a log cabin somewhere like Camp Connell, CA or Woodland Park, CO. You can spend time next to a firepit outdoors or you can take a hike nearby. If you're up for it, bring your bicycle to get even more exercise in.
P.S. Don't forget your TBR pile if you plan to stay for a few days!
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It's time to celebrate all of your accomplishments in life with a trip to the Maldives for your 50th or 60th birthday! You'll be mesmerized by the Indian ocean and you'll enjoy seeing relaxing on the beach. If you're looking to romanticize your life, you can start checking things off your bucket list like going snorkeling or swimming with manta rays.
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Visiting Edinburgh, Scotland is another birthday trip idea that I'm extremely biased about. There's something absolutely charming about Scotland that I'd love to see one day; hence why I think it's a great place to visit for your 50th or 60th birthday.
You can go on the Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour or visit the Edinburgh Castle! If your millennial kids enjoyed the Harry Potter franchise, you can also sit comfortable on the Hogwarts Express Tourand snap pics of the scenery around you for their amusement.
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And if you're looking to do something that doesn't require you to leave the country, take a trip to the countryside to spend time away from the city. My grandma used to consistently talk about how relaxing it felt to sit on the front porch of a family member's house while helping them prep fresh vegetables for dinner. She also enjoyed gardening and loved trips that included simple moments like these.
No matter what your birthday trip ideas consist of, the goal is for you to have fun celebrating being a year older. You deserve it 😉.
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Camila Mendes rocked the Met Gala red carpet with her sequined rosette dress, reminding me that this floral trend is still in full bloom. We've seen rosettes pop up here and there over the last year with the soft girland coquettetrends, but now rosettes are an entire moment of their own. Cami definitely crushed this trend, with the petals flowing down the length of her dress, giving her a delicate draped look. But rosette styles — a rosette dresses in particular — aren't one-size-fits all. Like their literal flower counterparts, a rosette dress can take many forms. From more structural accents to flowing flowers, there's truly something for everyone! Here are 17 ways you can style your own rosette dress moment á la Cami!
These off-the-shoulder sleeves and the dainty length really make this dress something special! Plus, it honestly feels the closest to Cami's actual look, given the draping and rosette placement.
The second closest to Cami's look, this rosette dress has all the halter top realness you could ask for! I'm really into this lilac color and the pleating — especially for a sweet happy hour-to-dinner night out with your girlfriends!
Nothing says coquette like a slinky little silk nighty! I love this dress for a summer night out!
I think the hip rosette would somehow get in my way if I tried to wear this dress, but it looks SO cute for people more coordinated than I!
Powder blue is really having a moment, and I can't get enough of it here! The way the fabric just hangs off the rosette is such a delicate detail.
This rosette dress is perfect for your bachelorette party, TBH! Throw it on before your night out with the girls and dance the night away!
Though it's technically not a dress, this two piece is sooooo fun for summer! It's giving Cool Girl Goes To Dinner On Vacation.
The red trend isn't going anywhere any time soon, and to nobody's surprise — it pairs perfectly with rosettes. This is THE Hot Girl Summer dress for sure.
Barbie does rosettes! Well, not actually – Elliatt does rosettes here, but I'd like to think Barbie would love it. The floral bunches in three corners of this dress are really sweet here, too!
Another Hot Girl moment with this Atoir set (again, I know it's not exactly a dress)! This strappy little number will have everyone asking for your actual number in no time!
The Abercrombie renaissance continues to win big with this rosette dress! I love the two-tiered skirt and the one-shouldered rosette strap.
The rosettes on this dress from Mango are printed on, rather than the floral appliques we've seen so much of here. Definitely a unique take on this trend!
It may be a bridal dress, but that doesn't mean that's all it's good for! While this is totally perfect for all your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and even wedding needs, I can definitely see this slaying way after "I do" too!
I'm absolutely obsessed with how much this Hutch romper looks like a straight-up dress. The rosette straps are just the cherry — er, flowers — on top!
A shift dress is always a classic silhouette to stash in your closet, and this Endless Rose option is far from boring! Adorned with a handful of chunkier rosettes, this mod-esque dress is everything.
Another slinkier option, the Staud Delilah Rosette Satin Minidress is chic and sexy. Pull it out for your next date night and see how your partner reacts!
And for my final trick, I give you this dress: 💃. While I'm only slightly kidding, I love the front hip placement of the gathered rosette and the movement of the high-low slit.
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Header image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Attention movie lovers: it's Oscar season! March 10th kicks off the 96th annual Academy Awards, which is just another reason to get your pals together for a fancy movie-inspired night in. Plan some small bites, make-ahead cocktails and pop in the popcorn for a night filled with glamorous style, inspiring speeches, favorite clips with laughter and tears thrown into the mix. In fact, we've done a little party planning of our own. Feel free to copy us and party it up Oscars style with these brilliant DIYs.
May we have the envelope, please? Every great party has to start with some glam invitations. (via Twig and Thistle)
This backdrop takes about 5 minutes to get up but really makes an impact in any room or photo. (via Brit + Co)
Channel 1940s Olympic swimmer turned movie star Esther Williams with these adorable swim caps. (via Brit + Co)
Yes, that really is just a roll of tickets. This is such an innovative way to make a fun movie-themed bowl. (via Buggie & Jellybean)
Getting sick of commercial break after commercial break? Take a breather and take turns hitting this shiny beauty! We recommend filling it with some movie theater-esque treats for the ultimate themed party. (via Studio DIY)
Though this awesome popcorn bar is more fit for an outdoor party, you could easily create your own on a decorated table indoors. While you're at it, check out some tasty popcorn hacks to add to your spread. (via Hostess With the Mostess)
Printables are definitely a dream come true for any busy DIYer. These bright and colorful boxes would be a perfect addition to your popcorn bar! (via Design Eat Repeat)
A photo booth that's both vintage and movie-related? Yes, please! (PS: We're huge fans of the popcorn cones she's holding. Those would also be great for the popcorn bar.) (via Kelly Golightly)
If you're going for a sophisticated viewing party, this elegant statuette will feel at home on your table. (via Twig & Thistle)
Glitter is always a welcome addition to any affair. Add some pizzazz to your drinks with these glitter-dipped bottles. Our super adaptable tutorial would work well for wine and Champagne glasses as well. (via Brit + Co)
Are your walls looking bare? Sparkle them up with this festive garland. (via Green Wedding Shoes)
If you feel like the Oscar statuette is way overrated, give awards to your guests with these festive balloons instead! (via Studio DIY)
These tasty treats are perfect for those with a hankering for something sweet. (via Make Life Lovely)
Make like the real thing and send all your guests home with a swag bag — these printable stickers are the perfect finishing touch. (via Elegance & Enchantment)
Keep everyone focused on the ceremony no matter how long it drags on with these v. entertaining Bingo cards. (via Julie Blanner)
For a swanky affair, set a stunning tablescape: Lots of gold and black silk are in order, and maybe some confetti. (via Pizzazzerie)
Keep the drink menu simple with a cocktail that you can make in batches. The gold sugar rim really drives the glam home! (via Blissfully Domestic)
Add these to your gift bags, or stick 'em on your guests as they arrive! (via Squirelly Minds)
Planning your own red-carpet Oscar viewing party? Make sure to 'Gram it and tag us @BritandCo!
(Additional reporting by Ariel Garneau and Theresa Gonzalez)
This article has been updated.
The Met Gala is known for its amazing red carpet looks, but I pay just as much attention to the beauty. These final makeup looks are just as beautiful as the fashion, and fresh-faced, glowy beauty is EVERYWHERE. Bridgerton star Phoebe Dynevor showed up to the Met Gala wearing a face full of Charlotte Tilbury makeup (done by Sofia Tilbury!), and, TBH, I want to shop every single product. Keep reading for the full scoop!
Start off your makeup routine by ensuring your skin is glowy on its own! This magic cream features hyaluronic acid (without any of the sulfates you might be worried about) for a hydrating effect you'll love.
No matter whether you have normal or dry skin, this magic cream works to reduce fine lines and give you a lit-from-within glow.
Your skin will absolutely drink up this serum because not only does it feature Vitamin C, but it's also got the super-hydrating Polyglutamic Acid.
The Charlotte Tilbury Crystal Elixir will increase your skin's hydration by 172 percent in 60 minutes, and will make your skin firmer and more elastic!
The secret to incredible makeup might just be using products infused with skincare ingredients. This foundation uses the benefits of hyaluronic acid to give you a natural glow.
The medium finish lasts for 16 hours AND it hydrates, smoothes, blurs, and brightens. Talk about a multi functioning product.
Get the glow of your dreams with this highlighter that has finely milled pearls, mica, and oil for the smoothest application ever.
This micro-precision tool lets you fill in your brows with hair-like strokes that won't make them blocky or unnatural. There are plenty of shades to match a variety of hair colors, and you don't have to worry about ashy undertones.
The long-wearing formula also means your brows won't fade over time. But the best part is that since this Charlotte Tilbury product can be refilled, it's more sustainable!
Nothing says understated glam like a nude eyeshadow look, and there are so many shades in this palette that you can create an endless amount of eye looks! My favorite combo is the brown, champagne, and gold, but the warmer tones are the perfect transition to summertime.
Hydrating lipstick that's also matte sounds too good to be true, but this pick proves it can be done! It's long wearing for all your date nights, GNO's, and movie marathons, and it's vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free.
Let us know your favorite spring makeup trend in the comments!
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Met Gala Monday is basically the American version of a royal ball; our favorite celebs take to the red carpet (or in this case, cream and teal), in the most stylish and ethereal outfits we'll see this year. The 2024 Met Gala theme, Sleeping Beauties, evokes fairytale imagery and lush texture, and this year's guests did not disappoint. Here are all the looks we can't stop staring at.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Meg Ryan looked incredible on the Met Gala red carpet in a black sequin gown with a sheer bodice.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Bridgerton's OG Diamond of the Season traded jewels for lace and flowers.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Da'Vine Joy Randolph proves that this year's denim and jean trends aren't going anywhere.
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Daisy Jones' Camila Morrone rocks an off-the-shoulder top and feathered skirt — and it's giving Pirate Queen in all the best ways.
Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
Kendall Jenner's Met Gala red carpet look checks all her boxes: minimalist yet detailed, classy yet sexy.
Image via Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
If anyone were going to show up to the 2024 Met Gala dressed as a literal tree, of course it would be Lana Del Rey!
Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
I didn't know I could love a Met Gala look this much. The petals, the snake necklace, the color palette. I can't get enough.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Karol G in Lord of the Rings, when? I can't get enough of this Met Gala red carpet look.
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Big Little Lies star Nicole Kidman stunned in a black and white dress that is totally giving old Hollywood glamour.
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Aqua was a huge part of the 2024 Met Gala and Naomi Campbell gave the trend some 1920s fun with a flapper-esque dress!
Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
Before taking her turn as Snow White, Rachel Zegler showed up to the Met Gala red carpet channeling Y2K Cinderella.
Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
Kim Kardashian knocked it out of the park with this natural meets material ensemble covered in silver flowers.
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Venus Williams' Met Gala red carpet look proves she knows how to score off the tennis court!
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Sabrina Carpenter's orchid-inspired gown is going to live in all our dreams tonight.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Sydney Sweeneywas almost unrecognizable on the Met Gala red carpet in a blue and black ensemble that made her new jet black bob pop!
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Amanda Gorman was the belle of the ball in a gilded light blue dress and headband. It's giving both Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty!
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Nicki Minaj's interpretation of "The Garden of Time" was bold and vibrant — just like her.
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Quannah Chasinghorse's periwinkle is my favorite color of the night — and the shade is the color of Alaska's forget-me-nots. I'm obsessed.
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This Gabrielle Union look confirms Mermaidcore is coming back this summer ;).
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The first thing I thought of when I saw Barry Keoghan's Met Gala red carpet look was Mr. Darcy from Pride & Prejudice. And I love that for him.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Gigi Hadid's approach to this year's Met Gala theme is classy, timeless, and summery. I love how the contrast between the fitted bodice and the voluminous train is emphasized by the skirt's overlay. Give me more!
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Keke Palmer took the Met Gala red carpet to a whole new level thanks to this metallic dress. The form fitted nature perfectly stands out against the strappy detail — and her hair jewels!
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Wicked's leading ladies brought movie magic to the Met Gala red carpet — Ariana Grande's dress is bright and creamy with subtle rainbow detail, while Cynthia Erivo's pink flowers stand out against the dark fabric.
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Brie Larson's 2024 Met Gala dress might be in my top 3 looks of the night! The orange bodice and lavender overlay contrast each other in color, but the opaque vs. transparent fabrics are also contrasting — but thanks to experts at Prada, they're working together, not fighting.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Grammy winner Tyla took an unconventional approach to the Met Gala red carpet — instead of gardens, she went with Sands of Time. Genius! The sand beauty detail on her shoulder might just be my favorite.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Taylor Russell's beautiful ensemble is giving tree nymph and Grecian goddess at the same time.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Jessica Biel has set the tone for the summer — literally — in a feathered, bright pink gown and beachy waves.
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Riley Keough is giving the garden a Gothic edge with black mesh and an eye-catching cut out. But the bright blue and pink flowers keep this Met Gala red carpet look from seeming too dark.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
We know from Disney's Sleeping Beauty that Elle Fanning is basically a princess, and this airy, shimmery dress is just further proof.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
I KNEW Zendaya wouldn't disappoint after giving us slay after slay every year. This moody look is simultaneously giving Mrs. Peacock from Clue and Clara Bow from The Tortured Poets Department in the very best way. Could this look singlehandedly launch us back into a 1930s beauty phase for the fall?
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Zendaya shocked us all by stepping out in a second look for the Met Gala red carpet. This one is just as moody as the first and features a colorful floral headpiece.
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What Josh O'Connor's Met Gala red carpet look lacks in color, it more than makes up for in detail. The coattails! The shoes! I'm obsessed.
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Mike Faist kept it simple and classy at the 2024 Met Gala, and decided to accessorize with a sparkly turnip.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
After her run in Game of Thrones, it's no surprise Gwendoline Christie can balance reality and fantasy with ease. I love the Queen of Hearts vibes she's got going on.
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Emma Chamberlain is one of our reigning Met Gala queens and her moody look on the 2024 Met Gala red carpet is simultaneously giving Chamberlain Coffee, "Espresso" by Sabrina Carpenter, and a mythical storybook witch.
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The Bear star Ayo Edebiri's garden gown and bright blush are the exact inspo I need for 2024.
Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
Lea Michele (and her baby bump!) made waves at the 2024 Met Gala — and not just because the Gleestar looks like a nymph! I love the cool effect of the blue satin, especially paired with colorful flowers.
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I knew we'd be getting fairytales, but leave it to Dune 2's Rebecca Ferguson to take the Grimm’s approach — dark fabric, shimmery details, and ominous birds. Revered Mother is mothering!
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Jennifer Lopez' crystal dress absolutely reminds me of the grace of Swan Lake with some extra strength and edge to boot.
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The Barbie director went totally Oppenheimer on the Met Gala red carpet — and stepping out with Emma, Zoe, Sienna, and Chemena has me wondering if there's a new movie in the works?
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Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline's Met Gala look is a beautiful, creamy take on modern fairytales, and I'm going to need her airy beauty look STAT.
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And Just Like That...SJP has arrived! I love the boots, I love the lace embroidery detail, and I love the hat.
Who has your favorite Met Gala red carpet look? Let us know on Facebook and follow us on TikTok for in-the-moment reactions!
Lead image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue
