Fashion has forever been more than just clothes, it’s about culture, rebellion, and emotion. Over the decades, certain outfits have done more than just turn heads. They’ve defined eras, challenged norms, and left lasting imprints on both runways and red carpets.
1. Princess Diana’s Revenge Dress (1994)
It was the dress that said everything without saying a word. On the same night, a documentary aired in which Prince Charles admitted to infidelity, Princess Diana arrived at a Vanity Fair party in a slinky, off-the-shoulder black silk dress by Christina Stambolian.
The press dubbed it the “revenge dress,” and it became a defining moment, not just in Diana’s personal evolution, but in fashion itself.
2. Elizabeth Hurley’s Safety Pin Dress (1994)
Worn to the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral, the black Versace gown held together by oversized gold safety pins did more than launch Liz Hurley’s career, it redefined red carpet fashion.
Donatella Versace later said it symbolised “breaking the rules of elegance.” It was daring, it was scandalous, and it became one of the most talked-about dresses of the decade.
3. Jennifer Lopez’s Green Versace Dress (2000)
When JLo stepped onto the Grammy Awards red carpet in a plunging, jungle-print chiffon dress by Versace, she didn’t just make headlines, she broke the internet (before that was even a thing).
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The dress was searched so frequently that it led Google to invent Google Images. A dress so iconic it sparked a whole new way of exploring fashion online.
Each public appearance is a masterclass in elegance (Express archive)
4. Rekha’s timeless Kanjivaram Saris
No list of iconic fashion moments is complete without Rekha, whose signature style has made as much impact as her film roles. For decades, the legendary Indian actress has remained synonymous with opulent Kanjivaram silk saris, gold jewellery, and bold red lips.
Each public appearance is a masterclass in elegance.
5. Audrey Hepburn’s Little Black Dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Elegant, simple, and unforgettable, Audrey Hepburn’s Givenchy gown in Breakfast at Tiffany’s defined timeless sophistication. Paired with pearls, gloves, and oversized sunglasses, it became the blueprint for the little black dress, a wardrobe staple to this day.
It wasn’t just a movie costume, it has since become a fashion archetype.
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6. Rihanna’s Met Gala Yellow Gown by Guo Pei (2015)
Rihanna is no stranger to iconic fashion moments, but her 2015 Met Gala appearance in an extravagant yellow cape-dress by Chinese designer Guo Pei went viral the moment she stepped out. The train alone required three handlers.
While memes joked about omelettes and pizza, fashion critics hailed it as a genius blend of couture and cultural commentary.
7. Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress (2010)
Love it or hate it, Lady Gaga’s raw beef dress at the MTV VMAs was unforgettable. Designed by Franc Fernandez, the dress was Gaga’s protest against the US military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
Controversial? Definitely. But like many iconic fashion moments, it sparked conversation far beyond the red carpet.
