when couture comes out to play

Only two things excite me to the point of hysteria. Only two things can end wars, poverty, cure disease and render all negativity completely meaningless, just for a moment. One is chocolate, the other is the Met Ball.

I wait for it, not with agile desperation, but settled in the knowledge that i will finally be elevated from the post-Oscar depression. For one night, we honour dramatic creations that flourish under artistic silhouettes, intricate precision and opulent colours with luxury that engulfs you, twirling around your mind to the point of suffocation. So, while i find a way to release myself from its unrelenting grip, here are the best bits.



On the eve of the prolific "Savage Beauty" exhibition, many paid homage to Alexander McQueen showcasing a range of designs that span all corners of the archive. Naomi Campbell, Anna Dello Russo, Karen Elson, Sarah Jessica Parker and Daphne Guinness were among the guests to be swept by a fever that left a sombre, but soulful residue.






In a feathered Marchesa design, Miranda Kerr played a celestial archangel under sharp, pristine balletic structure, softened by floating layers of tulle.



Anna Wintour donned Chanel along with Blake Lively who arrived with a rather befitting accessory.




Beyonce seduced in a custom Emilio Pucci gown with gold baroque embroidery and a splaying tulle fish-tail.



Diane Kruger wore Jason Wu, contrasting old hollywood glamour with a daring thigh-high split.



Sisters, Elle and Dakota Fanning add grandeur in Valentino Haute Couture designs.



Liv Tyler teams a bright yellow clutch to a Givenchy Couture 2011 dress with an enveloping, feathered swan motif.



Hailee Steinfeld continues to prosper stylishly in Stella McCartney, asymmetrical draped to put a youthful spin on mature sophistication.



Wearing white Jason Wu, with cut out sleeves, Nicole Richie brings 1920's gin soaked decadence to the party.



Jessica Stam epitomises soft summer romance in a delicate blush tone Tommy Hilfiger dress.



Scoring points for Britain, Alexa Chung glorifies one of last season's most innovative collections in a Christopher Kane knee-grazer.



Ashley Olsen brushed off the Galliano Ghost and opted for a vintage Dior dress with off the shoulder, exaggerated puff-sleeves and shoes, four sizes too big. It's Ashley Olsen - who cares?



Glee's Dianna Agron continues to wow in a scarlet Michael Kors column dress and a gold gladiator cuff.