As the Met Gala gets underway, attention is still lingering on the pre-Gala looks worn at exclusive events leading up to the big night.
One standout moment that’s sparked major conversation involves Serena Williams, whose outfit at Anna Wintour’s pre-Met Gala dinner in New York City quickly divided fans.
For the occasion, the 44-year-old wore a bold, backless red sequin gown featuring an asymmetrical silhouette and a dramatic slit that extended up to her waist. She paired the look with black Christian Louboutin heels, putting her toned legs on display.
She was joined by her sister, Venus Williams, 45, who is serving as a co-chair of this year’s Met Gala.
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Serena Williams Slammed Over 'Cheap' Pre-Met Dress
For glam, the mom of two debuted blonde hair and opted for a matte makeup look, completing the head-turning ensemble.
However, reactions online were largely critical. “Cheap, tacky, and vulgar,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Serena looks a mess,” while others added, “If she has stylists, fire them—if she doesn’t, she needs to hire a team because this is a huge miss,” and “That’s an unfortunate dress.” One particularly harsh remark read, “What a horrible, vulgar sight—an inappropriate dress for her age and body shape. Just crass and certainly no class. Really awful.”
While she isn’t a chair this year, Williams is no stranger to the event—she’s a regular attendee and notably served as a co-chair in 2019, becoming the first tennis player to take on the role.
The night before, she also stepped out with her husband at Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s pre-Met Gala party.
For the occasion, she wore a gray strapless mini dress featuring a sculptural, asymmetric sweetheart neckline. She paired the look with sheer tights, black pointed-toe flats, and a clutch, while her husband, Alexis Ohanian, kept it classic in a black suit styled with sneakers.
Serena Williams Served As Co-Chair At 2019 Met
At the Met Gala 2019, co-chair Serena delivered one of the night’s most memorable looks in a custom neon yellow gown by Atelier Versace. The dramatic design featured voluminous puffy sleeves, pink leaf appliqués, and a sweeping train.
In true “Camp: Notes on Fashion” spirit, she paired the couture gown with matching neon Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 sneakers, blending high fashion with streetwear. She completed the look with a sleek bun adorned with yellow floral accents and sparkling pieces from Tiffany & Co..
The ensemble perfectly captured the playful, exaggerated essence of the theme by merging bold couture with unexpected, casual elements.
