In Hollywood, a couple isn’t truly official until they make their red carpet debut. Looking back, one of the most memorable first red carpet moments was when Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik made their grand entrance as a couple.
The supermodel and the rockstar chose an unforgettable stage for their first public appearance: the 2016 Met Gala. Their debut was iconic, with the duo embracing the event’s Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology theme in futuristic, coordinated outfits.
Gigi Hadid side parts her hair at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion in the Age of Technology” Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala held on May 2, 2016, in New York (Credit: WENN)
At the time, Gigi and Zayn had only been dating for a few months, having made things official in November 2015 after meeting at a friend’s birthday party years prior. Their relationship quickly became one of the most talked-about romances in fashion and music.
Though their love story has had its ups and downs—including a breakup and co-parenting their daughter, Khai—their 2016 Met Gala moment remains an unforgettable piece of pop culture history.
It was good that her ex-boyfriend Joe Jonas, who recently mentioned it was “interesting” that Gigi moved on so quickly, was not in attendance.
Gigi Hadid’s Futuristic Glam: A Bold Met Gala Fashion Moment
The real showstopper? Gigi and Zayn’s futuristic robot-inspired outfits. Gigi wore a plated bodysuit underneath the sheer gray fabric, which she said is a creation from American fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger.
The model paired her dress with luxury footwear designer Stuart Weitzman’s “Venus” pumps and machine-cut knuckle jewelry to complement her man’s robotic arms.
Gigi Hadid isn’t the only celebrity who has embraced the allure of Stuart Weitzman’s “Venus” pumps. Supermodel Cindy Crawford showcased these patent leather heels, adding a touch of sophistication to her monochrome ensemble.
Similarly, actress Victoria Justice opted for the black patent version of the “Venus” pumps, pairing them seamlessly with her strapless dress, highlighting its versatility.
Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid turn heads at their first red carpet appearance as a couple at the Met Gala, embracing the futuristic theme with bold, coordinated looks (Credit: WENN)
Yes, you read that right—Zayn showed up in a custom Versace suit, black Jimmy Choo Alaric shiny calf lace-up shoes, and robotic arms. It’s a good thing it was a themed party.
Zayn Malik and Gigi Hadid wear matching robotic-themed costumes at the 2016 Met Gala (Credit: WENN)
Over the years, Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik made several public appearances together. They even posed for a stunning Vogue spread, but their 2016 Met Gala debut remains one of their most talked-about moments.
That night, they cemented their status as fashion’s newest power couple, exuding chemistry while the paparazzi captured their futuristic looks. Their futuristic, coordinated outfits were a bold statement, ensuring their first red carpet appearance was truly unforgettable.
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Gigi Hadid’s shimmering Tommy Hilfiger gown and Stuart Weitzman “Venus” pumps were a perfect match for the 2016 Met Gala’s “Manus x Machina” theme, seamlessly blending futuristic aesthetics with timeless elegance.
But she wasn’t the only one making a statement on fashion’s biggest night. From illuminated ball gowns to avant-garde ensembles, other A-listers also embraced the high-tech theme with their own unique interpretations.
Memorable Celebrity Looks from the 2016 Met Gala
Let’s take a look at some of the most unforgettable celebrity outfits from the 2016 Met Gala:
Claire Danes in Illuminated Zac Posen Gown
- Event: 2016 Met Gala
- Outfit: Claire Danes captivated attendees in a custom Zac Posen gown that glowed in the dark, embodying a modern Cinderella with its fiber optic technology.
- Footwear: She complemented the gown with simple yet elegant heels, ensuring the dress remained the focal point.
- More Details: Claire Danes Lights Up the 2016 Met Gala in a Stunning Zac Posen Gown
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West in Coordinated Balmain Ensembles
- Event: 2016 Met Gala
- Outfit: Kim Kardashian dazzled in a silver metallic Balmain gown with a thigh-high slit, while Kanye West complemented her in a matching Balmain jacket paired with ripped jeans.
- Footwear: Kim accessorized with custom silver Tom Ford sandals, adding to the futuristic vibe of their coordinated looks.
- More Details: Kim Kardashian and Kanye West Take Date Night to the 2016 Met Gala in Matching Balmain Looks
Emma Watson’s Eco-Friendly Calvin Klein Ensemble
- Event: 2016 Met Gala
- Outfit: Emma Watson showcased sustainability in fashion with her Calvin Klein ensemble, crafted from recycled plastic bottles. The ensemble blended style with environmental consciousness.
- Footwear: She paired the outfit with minimalist heels, aligning with the ensemble’s sleek design.
- More Details: Emma Watson Stuns in Calvin Klein at the 2016 Met Gala
Sarah Jessica Parker’s Hamilton-Inspired Monse Outfit
- Event: 2016 Met Gala
- Outfit: Sarah Jessica Parker took a unique approach with a Hamilton-inspired ensemble by Monse, featuring a white crop top, capri pants, and a cutout back coat.
- Footwear: She completed her look with blue satin SJP ‘Rampling’ pumps, adorned with brooches from her personal collection.
- More Details: Sarah Jessica Parker Defends Her Monse Ensemble and SJP ‘Rampling’ Shoes at 2016 Met Gala
Kendall Jenner’s Atelier Versace Cutout Gown
- Event: 2016 Met Gala
- Outfit: Kendall Jenner turned heads in a custom Atelier Versace gown, featuring bold cutouts and intricate beadwork highlighting her statuesque figure.
- Footwear: She opted for satin Versace sandals, ensuring the focus remained on her striking dress.
- More Details: Kendall Jenner Stuns at 2016 Met Gala in Atelier Versace Cutout Gown
These ensembles captured the essence of the 2016 Met Gala theme and set benchmarks for red carpet fashion in the years that followed.