All the Heartwarming Details from Blake Lively’s Dazzling Met Gala Ensemble

In a sea of spectacular haute couture, it takes a lot to stand out on the famed steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the first Monday in May. Once again, A-listers from music, sports, fashion, movies and more came out en force for theCostume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum. This time it was in celebration of the new exhibit, “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination.”

Blake Lively caught everyone’s attention with a breathtaking gown. Whether she’s in a private school uniform or couture, the “Gossip Girl” actress looked right at home on the Met steps.

For this occasion, Lively wore a bejeweled crimson masterpiece with a full train from Versace. The incredible dress took more than 600 hours to make. That was definitely time well spent on this incredible piece of wearable artwork and another smart style choice from Lively.

Creative Process

Unlike many other celebs who waltzed up the steps, Lively coordinated her look sans stylist. In fact, the actress never uses a stylist. That means she does everything, from choosing pieces to calling them in and even scheduling alterations.

“I love design and I love fashion, and it’s a way to be creative,” she explained to WWD. She also told the publication that she enjoys seeing the process through to the finish and collaborating directly with designers.

So, all the beautiful details came from Lively herself. Her elaborate gala gown included a jewel-encrusted bodice and yards of rich crimson fabric that cascaded down the steps. It also featured intricate embroidery and sheer paneling. Hiding underneath were equally stunning custom Christian Louboutin heels.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiivXNXAar3/?hl=en&taken-by=blakelively

Dazzling Details

Also hiding in plain sight was the Judith Leiber clutch that Lively carried, which held extra sentimental value. She used the occasion to pay tribute to her family, husband Ryan Reynolds and two daughters, who were unable to join her at the event. (Shoe designer Louboutin and “The Handmaid’s Tale” director Reed Morano stepped in as her dates instead.) The custom rhinestone bag featured the first initial of each of her family members’ names alongside a Reynolds family crest.

In addition to stunning emerald earrings, Lively topped it all off with a dazzling Lorraine Schwartz halo loaded more than 100 carats of nude champagne diamonds. Just look at this marvel:

In total, the cost of the jewelry that Lively wore from Lorraine Schwartz for the occasion totaled over $2 million, according to People.com.

Though “Gossip Girl” has ended, Lively’s reign as queen of the Upper East Side definitely lives on!