The 13 Most Stunning Met Gala Looks From 2016: Manus x Machina

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When we heard this year’s Met Gala theme would pay homage to technology, we immediately pictured Lady Gaga-inspired dresses. Much to our relief, the event ended up equally classy and theatrics.

Sure, there were still a lot of out-of-this-world red-carpet dresses, but they were mostly the awe-inspiring ones and not the cringe-worthy costumes we’ve often associated with futuristic, technology-themed events.

We present our favorite dresses from the recently concluded 2016 Met Gala without further ado:

1. Claire Danes’ Cinderella Glow-in-the-Dark Dress

Claire Danes stunned in a glow-in-the-dark Cinderella-inspired dress at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaClaire Danes stunned in a glow-in-the-dark Cinderella-inspired dress at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

It would be a crime not to put the Cinderella, fiber optic glow-in-the-dark dress of Claire Danes first on this list.

It was the night’s highlight, and days later, people still couldn’t stop talking about it. We’re pretty certain it will be the talk of the fashion world for ages, and for a good reason.

Zac Posen enticed his Instagram followers with a photo of Claire Danes in the illuminated gownZac Posen enticed his Instagram followers with a photo of Claire Danes in the illuminated gown (Credit: Zac Posen’s Instagram)

When lit up, the gown looks just like a real-life Cinderella dress. It is celestial and we’re floored with the technology and concept behind this.

2. Blake Lively Rocks Burberry’s High-Tech Flowers

Blake Lively, in a dress featuring a corseted structure and a detachable cape adorned with intricately hand-dyed and laser-cut flower petals, was joined by Christopher Bailey attend the "Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaBlake Lively, in a dress featuring a corseted structure and a detachable cape adorned with intricately hand-dyed and laser-cut flower petals, was joined by Christopher Bailey attend the “Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 2, 2016, in New York City (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

The “Gossip Girl” alumna helped create this dress. It made use of highly technical fabric and was highlighted by a long train with sewn-on floral applique.

She was joined on the red carpet by Christopher Bailey, Burberry’s Chief Creative Officer and CEO.

Blake Lively exuded radiance while wearing a pleated gown crafted from technical silk organza and chiffonBlake Lively exuded radiance while wearing a pleated gown crafted from technical silk organza and chiffon (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

We think the look was more appropriate for last year’s oriental-themed Met Gala, but this was a stunning dress, nonetheless.

3. Kate Hudson’s Shimmering White Versace Gown

Kate Hudson's gown was uniquely embellished with leather accents and ruffle details, complemented by a daring front thigh slitKate Hudson’s gown was uniquely embellished with leather accents and ruffle details, complemented by a daring front thigh slit (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

Kate definitely understood the night’s theme. While the other celebrities took the theme literally and went to the event in metallic dresses, the actress went in a white studded cut-out gown from Atelier Versace.

This dress boasted advanced construction and ingenious use of material that still made it look classy and wearable.

Kate Hudson opted for a personalized white strapless gown from Atelier Versace, which incorporated sheer panels and captivating cut-outs at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaKate Hudson opted for a personalized white strapless gown from Atelier Versace, which incorporated sheer panels and captivating cut-outs at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

4. Nina Dobrev’s Poufy, Statement-Making Dress Is a Fashion Statement

Nina Dobrev's Marchesa gown, adorned with gold jewels and mirrored embellishments, featured sheer illusion tulle layers that revealed a hint of cleavageNina Dobrev’s Marchesa gown, adorned with gold jewels and mirrored embellishments, featured sheer illusion tulle layers that revealed a hint of cleavage (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

Marchesa always releases some of the most memorable red carpet dresses; this one on former “The Vampire Diaries” actress Nina Dobrev was no exception.

Nina Dobrev made a grand entrance at the 2016 Met Gala in a captivating gold gown that exuded a whimsical charm, perfectly in tune with the atmosphere of the annual fashion extravaganzaNina Dobrev made a grand entrance at the 2016 Met Gala in a captivating gold gown that exuded a whimsical charm, perfectly in tune with the atmosphere of the annual fashion extravaganza (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

The intricacy was jaw-dropping. Whether the dress was handcrafted or employed the use of machinery, we really don’t care since the output was obviously worth the process.

Nina Dobrev's makeup included a metallic smokey eye, paired with a soft pink lip at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaNina Dobrev’s makeup included a metallic smokey eye, paired with a soft pink lip at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

5. Emma Watson’s Met Gala Ensemble Made From Recycled Materials

Emma Watson’s sustainable outfit at the 2016 Met Gala was one of the most talked-about looks of the night.

She collaborated with Calvin Klein and Eco Age 30 to create an ensemble made from recycled plastic bottles, organic cotton, and silk. The outfit was also designed to be versatile and could be worn in multiple ways.

“Being able to repurpose this waste and incorporate it into my gown for the ‪‎Met Gala‬ proves the power that creativity, technology and fashion can have by working together,” Emma shared on Facebook, adding: “Plastic is one of the biggest pollutants on the planet.”

Emma Watson's design team ingeniously upcycled the very same empty soda bottles we commonly discard into one of the standout ensembles on the Met Gala's illustrious red carpet at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaEmma Watson’s design team ingeniously upcycled the very same empty soda bottles we commonly discard into one of the standout ensembles on the Met Gala’s illustrious red carpet at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

6. Emma Roberts Stuns in Lavender and Eggplant Tory Burch Creation

Emma Roberts showcased a unique lavender and eggplant ensemble designed by Tory Burch at the Met GalaEmma Roberts showcased a unique lavender and eggplant ensemble designed by Tory Burch at the Met Gala (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

This ombre plisse gown from Tory Burch may not have been the most dramatic, but it was a sight for sore eyes amidst the sea of metallic dresses.

We’re glad Emma Roberts didn’t take the theme literally and went for something more feminine instead.

Emma Roberts rocked a gradient purple dress and unveiled her new hairstyle at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaEmma Roberts rocked a gradient purple dress and unveiled her new hairstyle at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

7. Chloë Moretz Brings Shimmer to the Met Gala Red Carpet

Exuding self-assuredness, Chloe Moretz wore an elegant long black gown featuring intricate detailing and shimmering accents, adding an element of sophistication to her lookExuding self-assuredness, Chloe Moretz wore an elegant long black gown featuring intricate detailing and shimmering accents, adding an element of sophistication to her look (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

We actually like this understated (for a Met Gala!) dress from Coach. Chloe exuded an air of sophistication, which is saying something for someone her age.

Chloe Grace Moretz and Stuart Vevers attend the 'Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology' Costume Institute GalaChloe Grace Moretz and Stuart Vevers attend the ‘Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology’ Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 2, 2016, in New York City (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

8. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Stuns in Simple and Chic Ivory Ralph Lauren Gown

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's choice of a sleek and elegant ivory gown from Ralph Lauren elevated her to one of the most impeccably dressed celebrities on the event's red carpetRosie Huntington-Whiteley’s choice of a sleek and elegant ivory gown from Ralph Lauren elevated her to one of the most impeccably dressed celebrities on the event’s red carpet (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

Not a fan of futuristic looks? Rosie Huntington-Whiteley went for just a hint of the theme in this pristine white Ralph Lauren dress. The metallic detail at the strap seemed enough for the model.

The simplicity and sophistication of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's ivory gown stood out at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaThe simplicity and sophistication of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s ivory gown stood out at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

9. Kate Bosworth Matches Hairpiece to Dress at 2016 Met Gala

Michael Polish and Kate Bosworth attend the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age Of Technology" Costume Institute GalaMichael Polish and Kate Bosworth attend the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age Of Technology” Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 2, 2016, in New York City (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

If the future looks anything like this, we’re in. We love this dress’s delicate juxtaposition of classic Grecian style and modern intricacy.

Kate Bosworth turned heads at the star-studded Met Gala in New York City in a Dolce & Gabbana crown and gownKate Bosworth turned heads at the star-studded Met Gala in New York City in a Dolce & Gabbana crown and gown (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

10. Beyoncé Stuns in Daring Givenchy Gown at Met Gala

Perhaps the most controversial dress of the night was Beyonce’s latex number from Givenchy. Some thought it was sheer genius, while others were just plain disgusted by it.

If somebody had to wear a latex dress at the Met Gala, it might as well be Beyonce, right?

Beyonce dressed up in nude at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Institute GalaBeyonce dressed up in nude at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Institute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

11. Emma Stone’s New Hair Color Has Everyone Doing a Double Take

Emma Stone’s dark hair and smoldering eyes transformed her into a fierce goddess in a white Prada gown paired with a silver corset, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry, and completed with Christian Louboutin shoes.

Emma Stone in an elegant cream Prada gown featuring a silver corset adorned with delicate floral details at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Insitute GalaEmma Stone in an elegant cream Prada gown featuring a silver corset adorned with delicate floral details at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Insitute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

12. Kendall Jenner Stuns in Strategically Cut-Out Versace Gown at Met Gala

Kendall Jenner made a bold statement with an Atelier Versace gown featuring strategic cut-outsKendall Jenner made a bold statement with an Atelier Versace gown featuring strategic cut-outs (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

The execution of this dress’s appearance undoubtedly required meticulous attention to detail.

The impeccably crafted cutouts and the dress’s tailored fit flawlessly complemented Kendall’s figure. She truly stood out, overshadowing even her sisters.

Kendall Jenner adorned in a striking Versace gown at the ‘Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology’ Costume Insitute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of ArtKendall Jenner adorned in a striking Versace gown at the ‘Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology’ Costume Insitute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

13. Dakota Johnson Stuns in Gucci at Met Gala 2016

Dakota Johnson's sleeveless design featured intricate green lace along the neckline and a daringly vibrant star pattern adorning the skirtDakota Johnson’s sleeveless design featured intricate green lace along the neckline and a daringly vibrant star pattern adorning the skirt

The “Fifty Shades of Grey” actress reminded everyone she’s a big star now with her Gucci number with star cutouts.

It didn’t adhere to the theme as literally as some other outfits we saw, but she managed to bring some sparkle to the event.

Dakota Johnson elevated her style game by donning a striking black Gucci gown at the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology" Costume Insitute GalaDakota Johnson elevated her style game by donning a striking black Gucci gown at the “Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age of Technology” Costume Insitute Gala held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York on May 2, 2016 (Credit: WENN/ Andres Otero / Dennis Van Tine / Future Image)

What do you think of our picks? Which dress was your favorite?