At this year's Met Gala, celebrities embraced the "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" theme with a touch of 1920s flair. Kiss curls became a popular hairstyle choice among stars such as Dua Lipa, Angel Reese, Bad Bunny, and Sydney Sweeney, paying homage to the dandy aesthetic. These vintage styles date back to the Flapper Era, when Josephine Baker famously styled her hair with face-framing curls.
From Dua Lipa's intricate four kiss curls paired with a beaded feathered dress to Sydney Sweeney's glossy rendition inspired by Kim Novak, each look was meticulously crafted. Simone Biles added a deep side part and voluminous swoop, while Coco Jones opted for an S-shaped curl and floor-length braid. Bad Bunny incorporated cultural elements from Puerto Rico into his style, showcasing the versatility of the trend. Even A$AP Rocky joined in, styling his braids to resemble a kiss curl.
A Tribute to the Flapper Era
Celebrities reinterpreted the kiss curl through their unique perspectives, bringing the Flapper Era to life on the red carpet. Dua Lipa dazzled in a beaded feathered gown, complemented by four kiss curls and a knotted glossy bun. Her partner Callum Turner matched her elegance with a dapper suit. Similarly, Sydney Sweeney channeled romance with three glossy curls created by stylist Glen Oropeza using FHI Heat tools. She referenced singer Kim Novak, whose story she portrays in Scandalous!, adding depth to her retro-inspired look.
Dua Lipa’s ensemble stood out as a celebration of 1920s glamour, complete with intricate details that honored the era. The multiple kiss curls framed her face beautifully, drawing attention to her bold makeup choices and timeless accessories. Meanwhile, Sydney Sweeney’s sleek style featured subtle elements like a side part and fluttery lashes, enhancing the tailored elegance of her overall appearance. Both looks highlighted how modern interpretations can still retain the essence of historical fashion while incorporating personal touches.
Variations on a Retro Theme
Beyond traditional interpretations, other attendees put their own spins on the kiss curl trend. Simone Biles introduced a voluminous side swoop alongside her single curl, creating a dynamic silhouette. Coco Jones presented an alternative take with an elongated braid, demonstrating the adaptability of the classic style. Olympic gymnast Simone Biles balanced her single kiss curl with additional vintage elements, further enriching the visual impact of her outfit.
Bad Bunny exemplified inclusivity within the dandyism movement by combining a kiss curl with a traditional Puerto Rican straw hat and Prada suit. His approach underscored how global influences can coexist harmoniously within a specific thematic framework. Basketball player Angel Reese also adopted the style, pairing it with a chic bob haircut designed by Thom Browne. Furthermore, A$AP Rocky creatively adapted the concept by transforming his braids into a similar formation, proving that innovation thrives even amidst adherence to tradition. These variations collectively demonstrated the boundless creativity inherent in fashion expression.