Our end-of-year superlatives continue with the “Outfit of the Year”! This category was particularly challenging due to the plethora of unforgettable looks. While Tyla stunned in a sand-inspired Balmain gown, Zendaya rocked a Dune 2 Mugler Robot ensemble, and Mona Patel amazed with an ethereal Iris van Herpen creation, there were several other outfits that truly grabbed your attention on Instagram.
We based our nominees entirely on likes. If an outfit received 30,000 likes or more on @FashionBombDaily, it was considered for Outfit of the Year, leading to some surprising contenders. Here are our top picks:
**Janelle Monae in Vera Wang at the Met Gala: 44,800 likes**
Janelle Monáe continues to shine at the Met Gala, and in 2024, she took her artistry to new heights in a dazzling Vera Wang gown that glowed under the flashing lights. Never one to play it safe, Monáe showcased her bold creativity in couture that demanded attention. Her daring “Eye”-covered Area after-party dress also turned heads, earning 28,000 likes and making her an unforgettable presence at the Met Gala.
**Beyoncé in Dolce & Gabbana at the Superbowl: 50,000 Likes**
Beyoncé stole the show at the February 2024 Superbowl in a stunning Dolce & Gabbana ensemble. Her lace-and-leather LBD, complete with spurred boots, perfectly blended glamour and sass with a touch of Texas charm. Over 50,000 likes on this iconic look marked the debut of her “Cowboy Carter” era, proving once again why Beyoncé is a reigning queen of style.
**Lala Anthony in Alexander McQueen at the Met: 36,000 Likes**
Met Gala red carpet host La La Anthony wowed in a breathtaking custom Alexander McQueen gown, styled by Elly Karamoh. The dress featured intricate crystal embellishments, dramatic structured shoulders, and a flowing train exuding high-fashion elegance. Her sleek ponytail and radiant makeup completed this standout look, making her one of the evening’s most talked-about stars.
**Cardi B During Paris Fashion Week: 60,000+ Likes**
Cardi B took Paris Fashion Week by storm with jaw-dropping outfits from Balmain, Rick Owens, DSquared2, and more. Her stylist Kollin Carter, along with hair and makeup teams, ensured Cardi’s looks ranged from edgy and fresh to elegant and dark grunge. Cardi’s fashion choices were so impressive, we couldn’t pick just one; her commitment to style shone brightly during the week.
**Nicki Minaj in Marni at The 2024 Met Gala: 37,000 Likes**
At the Met Gala themed “The Garden of Time,” Nicki Minaj stunned in a custom yellow Marni cocktail dress adorned with 3D pastel floral embellishments. Her iconic look, complemented by an elegant updo and soft, luminous makeup, stood out as a perfect blend of grace and creativity, making her a highlight of the evening.
**Jennifer Lopez in Nicole Felicia Couture at the 2024 Golden Globes: 33,000 Likes**
Jennifer Lopez made a grand entrance at the 2024 Golden Globes in a custom Nicole Felicia Couture gown. The soft pink strapless gown, highlighted by an elongated floral cape and sparkling accessories, embodied classic Hollywood glamour, reinforcing J.Lo’s status as a modern style icon.
**Mindy Kaling in Gaurav Gupta at the 2024 Met Gala: 36,000 Likes**
At the 2024 Met Gala, Mindy Kaling captivated in a custom nude Gaurav Gupta gown with cosmic-inspired swirls and intricate pleating. The dress’s structural brilliance and Mindy’s exquisite jewelry celebrated cultural representation, making her look a visual triumph and a standout of the year.
**Rihanna in Saint Laurent at the Gala des Pieces Jaunes: 39,000 Likes**
Rihanna consistently impressed with looks that clocked over 30,000 likes, from casual dinner outings to high-profile events. In a simple yet elevated Saint Laurent gown and black fur at the Gala des Pieces Jaunes, she secured her place on our top outfit list for 2024.
That wraps up our contenders for the best outfit of the year! Who do you think had the best look?