Finally! A bit of time to rehash my sartorial favorites from the Met Ball. I must say it was a parade of beauties on that red carpet — so much in fact — that I divided it into separate categories. Because kids, when it comes to good fashions, there is no such thing as a shortcut.
After looking at nearly dozens of images of celebrities, models, fashionistas and icons, I narrowed it down to these 10 darlings for their interpretation of some of the quintessential punk looks. I mean, the combination of different fabrics, strong use of metals and extreme hair and makeup are key when creating this look, and I must say these gals all transformed, owned and embraced this era.
No. 1 Trend: SHEER GENIUSES
Anne Hathaway in vintage Valentino: After her Oscar dress debacle (remember when she picked the last minute pink Prada number over the original Valentino gown?) this haute couture darling nailed the theme in a Vintage 1992 Valentino gown. Talk about transformation, since the Oscar winner, who is better known as a brunette, went blond for the affair. And let’s just say the reviews are coming in with praise!
Minka Kelly in Carolina Herrera: That peek-a-boo pink is perfection. She brings curves into a time period that pretty much ignored them, yet it is still punk due to the details, lace, see-through and attitude that she emulated. Plus, I am mildly obsessed with this color combo.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Gucci: This little number is daring to say the least. Ms. Rosie opted for this black and gold gown that was embroidered with feathers, sequins and mesh. It’ is a known fact that this gal can wear (or not, for that matter) anything and look amazing, but I love the fact that she took a bit of a risk and still looked glam.
No. 2 Trend: PRINTS GALORE
Amanda Seyfried in vintage Givenchy: Amanda always manages to have the ‘wow factor’ and in this vintage Givenchy number shows how she is (if not already) on her way to fashion icon. Everything in this look is exquisite — I mean the print, the hair and the back details, which bring a bit of an edge.
Sarah Jessica Parker in Giles Deacon and a Phillip Treacy headpiece: Very few times does SJP disappoint! It was fantastic to see her morph into a punkshionista (with mohawk in tow) thanks to the British designer’s vision. As for the face, the heavy eye makeup created by Nars superstar artist Uzo blends flawlessly with the entire ensemble. Notice the plaid boots? They were custom made by Christian Louboutin to depict one of the pivotal prints of that time.
Trend No. 3: THE LEGGY BUNCH
Kate Bosworth in Balmain: This trendsetter is always on-point with style and love that despite her small frame, she still rocks a mini like no other. This Balmain number sure is all of what punk era style is all about — bold, bright, daring and edgy. The belt, bag and pumps add a bit of toughness to the look.
Giselle Bunchen and Anja Rubik in Anthony Vaccarello: As you can see, Mrs. Tom Brady is ready to Rock n’ Roll! I love how this asymmetric mini dress leaves little to the imagination, yet it is still classy and perfect for the fete.
As for Anja, hands down my favorite look of the night. Doesn’t get any 80s punkier than leather, great gams, some bedazzle and that hairstyle. It reminds me of Grace Jones (I know she is more disco than punk), but this whole thing just oozes sex appeal.
Trend No. 4: VISION IN WHITE
Rooney Mara in Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci: This, ladies and gentlemen is how you combine haute couture, goth and punk. I mean it doesn’t get any more edgy than Ms. Mara, since she is known to push the envelope when it comes to sartorialisms. My favorite touch is the fact that she opted for white instead of her darker picks, because this just screams brilliant. What it comes down to in this dress are the details — I mean the zippers, shoulder pads and lace puts this number on a league of its own.
Nicole Richie in Topshop: Mrs. Madden (née Richie) transformed her usual California cool style into a princess of punkness in this Topshop number. The high light of the look is certainly the strong and bold lip and those gray locks. What a trooper indeed — you can see how much fun she was having at the event, because despite wearing white, she screams goth all over the place.
If you want a piece of punk paraphalia you are in luck. E-tailer Moda Operandi, an official sponsor of the event, is selling some of these pieces on their coveted site. Be prepare to dish some dough — as I am sure some of these items are one-of-a-kind and will cost a pretty penny.
Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off
PHOTOS: Vogue and Fashionista.com