Stars Swap Met Gala Couture for Bolder After-Party Looks in New York

Once the 2026 Met Gala wrapped up, a series of after-parties across New York City offered a fresh display of celebrity style.

A-listers hit the town Monday night, often switching to bolder and more revealing outfits.

The event's "Costume Art" theme and "Fashion is Art" dress code guided the red carpet looks. But at nearly a dozen after-parties around the city, attendees quickly abandoned those constraints.

Katy Perry, Hailey Bieber and Margot Robbie led the shift, trading elaborate gowns for stripped-down ensembles that stole the spotlight.

Perry arrived at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a futuristic face mask and stark white dress. Hours later, she opted for a playful fitted pale pink dress with a fluffy textured hem.

Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner drew stares walking together. Bieber, Justin Bieber's wife, chose a short white dress with a structured corset-like bodice and asymmetrical neckline, finished with minimal white strappy heels.

Jenner kept the high-fashion edge from her red carpet appearance. She dropped part of that outfit but retained a nude-toned form-fitting base like a sculpted bodysuit, paired with a sheer silky skirt. The "Kardashians" star added a sheer veil over her head and face, along with a small pouch bag and simple heels.

Margot Robbie mixed casual and glamour in a white top, shimmering multicolored jacket and bold red clutch.

Lena Dunham went full drama on the carpet before simplifying for the night. The "Girls" creator wore a voluminous white dress with loose layers to the after-parties.

Charli XCX went edgier in a black lace dress with sheer details, dark sunglasses and heels.

BLACKPINK's Rosé and Tate McCrae showed up together at the GQ Met Gala After Party, both in sunglasses. Rosé wore a short black strapless dress, while McCrae chose a fitted semi-sheer gold outfit.

Karlie Kloss, a former Victoria's Secret model, stayed sleek in a black mini dress with asymmetrical draping and long sleeves.

Vittoria Ceretti, Leonardo DiCaprio's girlfriend, picked a striking black ensemble with structured lines and embellishments.

Camila Mendes added a bright red flowing gown with a cropped top and draped skirt.