Celebrity Hairstylists Share a Behind the Scenes of the Met Gala

Before the biggest names in beauty and entertainment grace the Met Gala red carpet, hours of preparation and styling take place behind the scenes. The magic of the evening begins long before the cameras flash — inside closed doors with hairstylists crafting the dramatic, statement-making looks that perfectly complement the stars’ stunning fashion choices. From meticulous planning weeks in advance to last-minute touch-ups, every detail is carefully considered to ensure perfection for the big night. To uncover what it takes to be a celebrity hairstylist for one of fashion's most iconic events, we spoke with some of the industry's most sought-after hair pros. They share how they got their start styling for the Met Gala, their must-have essentials for the big day and their thoughts on this year's Met Gala theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style."

Getting the Invite 

There are so many pathways that hairstylists can explore in the industry, from being a salon owner to a content creator, brand ambassador, educator and more. So, how does one end up styling for the Met Gala? Our stylists share that it's through years of collaboration and relationship-building. 

Monaè Everett (@monaeartistry) styled Maleah Joi Moon's hair for last year's Met Gala, and her opportunity came to be part of the event after working with the singer, actress and Broadway star for previous press appearances and performances. 

"When it came time for the Met Gala, [her team] brought me on to help create something unforgettable. That kind of trust is earned over time, and I’m grateful for it," she shares. 

Karen Miller (@hairbykmiller) and Randy Stodghill (@hairjunkierandy) also had standing relationships with the clients they styled at this year's Met Gala — Quinta Brunson and Angela Bassett. 

As for when they can expect to receive the invitation, Cesar Deleon Ramirez (@cesar4styles) says the requests from clients start rolling in at the end of January every year. 

"I’m always waiting for the announcement of the theme, which inspires me to connect with the client collaboration that best aligns," he explains. "For me, it’s never just about the hair — it’s about storytelling, transformation and capturing the essence of the moment. The MET is fashion’s biggest stage, and I approach it like building a character for a film. I think about the dress, the designer, the makeup, the mood and how the hair can elevate or completely shift the energy of the look. I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible talent like Ciara, who trusts me to push boundaries. Those moments come from years of relationship-building and creative trust. When the stars align — theme, muse, vision — that’s when the magic happens." 

Anticipating Challenges 

With an event as high profile as the Met Gala, it's crucial to anticipate difficulties and challenges to ensure the day is smooth sailing. 

According to Miller, timing is everything. 

"Getting to the hotel on time for your call time [is a challenge]. NYC already has lots of traffic, but when you factor in MET Monday traffic, it’s insane. Every bit of time matters, and this is a big moment for your client and the entire team." 

Ramirez, who styled Jenna Ortega and Ciara for this year's Met Gala, also echoes this sentiment, saying, "The biggest challenge is wanting to work with all my clients that day, but I'm struggling with the reality that I can’t style everyone. So, I’d say timing is crucial, because the day goes faster than anticipated." 

When it comes to the theme or prepping the style, the stylists share that you have to be meticulous in your craft to create a high-impact style that also complements and aligns with the wardrobe and makeup. 

"Everyone talks about the theme, but few realize how strict and specific it really is," Everett emphasizes. "You have to design a look that aligns perfectly with the wardrobe, complements the makeup, and—most importantly—makes your client feel confident and powerful. It’s a high-pressure balance, but that’s what makes the work so impactful." 

Prepping the Look 

Creating the breathtaking hairstyles seen at the Met Gala requires extensive time, careful planning and precise attention to detail long before the event itself. It’s also a deeply collaborative effort, involving close coordination between the hairstylist, the talent and their team.

Everett explains that the collaborative process differs for each client, largely influenced by their level of red carpet experience. Agents, publicists and wardrobe stylists often contribute their input, collectively shaping the final decision on the hairstyle for the event.

"If your client is confident in their vision, it becomes more collaborative and direct," she says. "You also have to plan ahead with treatments, extensions and overall hair prep, so nothing is rushed or overlooked. From the initial vision to the last-minute tweaks, you need to be on the same page. We’ll often start conversations weeks out and handle things like treatments and installs in advance. The day-of is all about execution." 

"From the designer to the client to makeup and hair, we all must work together for the best outcome," Ramirez adds. "A lot changes throughout the process as the design tends to evolve, so it’s important for me to stay part of the conversation because hair really is the cherry on top of the entire look." 

As for crafting the actual hairstyle, Miller shares she does her research. 

"Once we decide the vibe we’re going for, I research the style or the person we’re inspired by," she says. "’I'll usually send reference photos, and they’ll send me what they’re wearing, which helps choosing the hairstyle easier."

Naeemah LaFond (@naeemahlafond) shares she created sketches and gathered references of Masai warriors and contemporary cornrow designs as she began prepping the hair look for Whitney Peak for this year's Met Gala. She also collaborated closely with Peak's makeup designer to bring the finished look to life. 

"Because the hair extended onto the face, it was really important to sync with the makeup artist," she explains. "We collaborated closely on placement, so that nothing disrupted the makeup while keeping the hair as striking as we envisioned." 

Celebrity hairstylist Nikki Nelms (@nikkinelms) crafted a stunning stitched braid look for Janelle Monáe at this year’s Met Gala. The intricate hairstyle was the perfect complement to Monáe’s bold and dramatic ensemble, but achieving the final look required thoughtful collaboration and plenty of discussion.

"It started with conversation—aligning with Janelle on the concept of the Time Traveling Dandy. From there, we explored silhouettes and textures that could live across eras. I collaborated with her styling team to make sure the hair echoed the tailoring and stitching of her suit. Every detail was mapped, from color to product layering," she reflects. "There was a beautiful synergy between Janelle’s vision, the designer’s tailoring and my role in threading it all together—literally and figuratively. Janelle gave me a lot of creative freedom, but she’s also incredibly intentional, so we were constantly checking in to make sure the story stayed aligned." 

Incorporating The Theme: Black Dandyism and Tailored for You 

The Met Gala theme is drawn each year from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute spring exhibition. This year's theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," explores the history and evolution of Black dandyism and its influence on fashion, with a particular focus on menswear and tailoring. 

The show's dress code, "Tailored for You," not only offers guidance on the evening's attire, but also serves as inspiration for the accompanying hairstyles.  From kiss curls and finger waves to the layered donut buns sported by Megan Thee Stallion, Josephine Baker particularly influenced the hairstyles showcased on this year's Met Gala red carpet. 

Miller shares Baker's famous 1920s Eton crop cut inspired the hair look she crafted for Quinta Brunson. 

Cornrows and braids were also popular hairstyles sported on the red carpet. LaFond created an intricate hairstyle for Peak that incorporated cornrows and baby braids, taking inspiration from how Black men used the style to refine their appearance. 

"Black beauty is layered — it doesn’t mean just one thing," she shares. "To me, cornrows symbolize both freedom of expression and a challenge to Western beauty ideals. They’re a modern, regal form of self-presentation and a reminder that refinement shows up in many forms across our culture." 

Vernon François (@vernonfrancois), who styled Lupita Nyong'o, Natasha Lyonne and Doja Cat, shares this year's theme inspired him to unapologetically embrace and celebrate his clients' natural hair pattern and texture to communicate a clear message: "natural hair patterns are couture, deserving of reverence, craftsmanship and center stage." 

He sought to celebrate the artistry of tailoring with every look he designed for his clients: Nyong’o in an intricate 40-inch loc ponytail, Lyonne with a voluminous blowout and Doja Cat in a layered, multi-patterned hairstyle.

"It’s a theme rooted in power, presentation and resistance — using refinement as a form of rebellion," he adds. "This Met Gala felt different. The theme created space to reframe how we view elegance, especially in the context of Black identity. For me, it was about honoring the work of our ancestors — the dressmakers, the tailors, the ones who understood craft down to the thread. Black Dandyism offered the perfect lens to build something rich in legacy and bold in presence."

Outside of how the theme inspired the hair artistry for the event, there was a sense of empowerment that stylists felt seeing Black beauty and fashion represented at such a high-profile event, especially in such a heightened and divided political and social climate. 

"When I first heard of the theme back in January, I was immediately excited and inspired," Ramirez recalls. "Seeing the names on the [Met Gala] board [of co-chairs] gave me a sense of pride to know that Dandy and fine black tailoring were being recognized as significant pillars of fashion. I think it’s perfect, especially at a time when we need to be more vocal about the harmony and importance of cultural differences in this country."

"I think it’s incredibly powerful that Black style is the focus at the Met this year," LaFond adds. "Our culture has shaped so many trends that are celebrated globally, yet we’re often left out of the credit. So to see Black creativity and self-expression being honored in this way—it’s a beautiful and necessary moment." 

The Day of the Met Gala 

When the day of the Met Gala arrives, the celebrity stylists are prepared for an early morning and a late night, but for colorist Jenna Perry (@jennaperryhair), most of her work is done ahead of time, unless a client or two comes into the salon for a gloss refresh. 

For those prepping for the long day ahead, self-care is a must! 

"I want the day of the MET to run smoothly, so I start my day with a grounding meditation, a nice workout to get my energy going and a light vegan breakfast to fuel me," Ramirez says. "Then, the races begin as I run from client to client, but the rush is a great feeling, especially when I get to see my creative ideas come to life." 

"That day, I flew in that morning, grabbed my pre-packed kit from my apartment and headed straight to Maleah’s hotel," Everett recalls. "We did a full editorial photo shoot before glam even started, so I had to be ready early. We padded in extra time for hair, makeup and even last-minute dress alterations. We brought in a photographer, coordinated with the stylist and had every step mapped out. I ate something clean, packed snacks, and meditated because the stress can sneak up on you." 

Once the stylists arrive at the talent's hotel or get ready suite, there's plenty of time padded in for prep. 

Halley Brisker (@halleybrisker) says he does a kit check before heading out for the day, leaving early to avoid traffic and road closures. Then, he spends about four or five hours in the suite prepping the talent's hair. 

Stodghill also shares that he gives himself plenty of time to create his finished look. 

"We start earlier than we normally start because you want to give yourself enough time because there's lots of traffic and lots of security, but once you're in the room, it's pretty relaxed," he says. "I focus on hair prepping, and before makeup is finished, I'm freestyling with her hair. For this particular time, we were doing a hat, so once the placement is finalized, I can continue to actually style the hair — teasing it, spraying it, shaping it — around the hat and making sure it's all perfect." 

The work doesn’t stop when the stars step onto the red carpet. Once the Met Gala wraps up, these hair pros are ready to give their celebrity clientele touch ups, so they can be ready for a night of after parties that await them. 

Met Gala Must-Haves 

The Met Gala is an intense, demanding day. To navigate it successfully, certain essentials are a must. Here's what our stylists shared they rely on to get them through the big day! 

• Cesar Ramirez: Well, tools and products are everything for me — I can only do so much without them. I absolutely have to have the best blow dryer, and that’s why I am loyal to the L'Oréal AirLight Pro. With it, I can guarantee that I can cut down on drying and styling time. Also, products like Kérastase not only help me create beautiful styles, but also treat the hair, leaving it in better condition. To polish and perfect my looks, I ALWAYS have my TOPPIK hair filler fibers. I can achieve so much with this product—from avant-garde to soft natural hairlines, guaranteeing the carpet photos will be perfect because they cannot be photoshopped.
• Halley Brisker: A good night's sleep! A solid breakfast, as that may be the last time I eat again before 8 or 9 pm, and my kit for sure!
• Jenna Perry: If I have a busy day of clients in the salon the day of the MET Gala, I just need to ensure I’m wearing comfortable shoes and that I’m constantly hydrating because I’m on my feet all day.
• Karen Miller: Good products and tools — this season, my go to was the TGIN Miracle Styling Multi-Use Setting Foam and 3 in 1 Heat Spray and the Dyson Corrale Straightener. 
• Monaè Everett: My Artist on the Go bag, hands down. It has everything I need: cordless curling iron, cordless flat iron, pin case, comb, brush and editorial accessories. I’ve had to curl hair in an elevator to make sure the red carpet entrance look was flawless. You have to be over-prepared.
• Randy Stodghill: Definitely PHYTO's VOLUME Volumizing Styling Spray & the PRO Style Laque Soie!

The Day After

While most people would be ready to crash after a day as high energy and intensive as the Met Gala, there's no rest for these stylists. Whether it's creating content to post to social media from the night before, returning to the salon for a full day of clients or heading to a photo shoot for more editorial work, these busy stylists are always on the go! 

"I usually get to bed late, especially if we have changed looks for the after party," Brisker shares. "Then, it is usually an early rise to finalize content for partnerships, so most of my day is just doing that in a cozy spot." 

Perry says she is back to regularly scheduled programming after creating dazzling, red-carpet-ready color for her celebrity clients, adding, "With owning a busy hair salon and being very in demand as a colorist, there are no days off." 

Everett remembers she had a photo shoot scheduled the day after she styled Maleh Joi Moon for the Met Gala, but still took a moment to unwind and celebrate afterwards, especially after seeing the style listed as one of the best of the night.

"But that night, seeing Maleah’s look named one of the top 10 hair moments from the Met? That made it all worth it. The complimentary press features kept coming in, and it reminded me that my artistry was cutting edge and appreciated," she says. "A long bath, a quiet night and a moment to breathe — that kind of high-stakes day requires a reset. I try to give myself space to reflect and celebrate the win before jumping into the next project."

Despite being highly accomplished individuals, these stylists always strive to improve and challenge themselves in their craft, with Ramirez also saying he uses the day after the Met Gala to reflect on his work.

"I think about all that I did, what I accomplished," he says. "Being the Virgo that I am, I nitpick everything and start to plan how I can do better next time. It’s my process. I unwind by accepting what is and what is not, and that gives me a sense of peace." 

About the Artists: 

Cesar Ramirez (@cesar4styles) is a celebrity hairstylist, creative director and brand collaborator. Cesar has been recognized by the industry’s leading media outlets, where he has earned “Best Hair” for his work on red carpets like The Met Gala for several seasons. Some career highlights include achieving the position of Creative Director at Dop Dop Salon in NYC, Global Artistic Director for Mizani, winner of the Stacy Morris Hair Styling award at the 2020 Hollywood Beauty Awards, John Paul Mitchell Brand Ambassador and he’s even co-created his own progressive lifestyle beauty brand celebrating hair pieces, wigs, accessories and more called WILDFORM. Regardless of the platform, Cesar always creates a meticulous, clean, creative and polished look that merges shape and structure, sexiness and artistic allure.

Halley Brisker (@halleybrisker) is a London-based hairstylist. His specialties range from creating glamorous, red carpet-ready looks to working with natural hair and more, netting him clients such as Lily James, Julianne Moore, Nicola Coughlan, Aimee Lou Wood, Sophie Turner, Rosie Huntington–Whiteley and Lucy Boynton. 

Jenna Perry (@jennaperryhair) is a celebrity hair colorist and salon owner in New York City. Her effortless, natural-looking approach has made her one of the country’s most in-demand colorists. 

Karen Miller (@hairbykmiller) is a professional hairstylist of over 10 years. Her career began in Virginia, but after 7 years of building a happy clientele, she decided to take her talents to the big city of New York. Karen has settled into her salon home at Spoke & Weal Soho. She is also the founder of INA Rose Hair. 

Monaè Everett (@monaeartistry) is an American Board Certified Hair Colorist with a diverse educational background. As a major force in beauty, Monaè has worked under top global hair care brands, such as Wella, Sebastian and Mizani. She is the industry expert for all hair textures. Monaè’s diverse work has been displayed on celebs including Tia Mowry, Yara Shahidi, Emily Tosta and starlets Lizzy Greene and Sofia Wylie. Monaé loves to educate and has launched "The Monae Life Academy" online academy specifically for hairstylists, teaching how to style for editorials, celebrities and styling for all hair textures.

Naeemah LaFond (@naeemahlafond) is a Haitian American, Brooklyn-born hairstylist based in New York. She is recognized internationally for creating iconic statement looks for fashion runways, global ad campaigns and editorial stories. LaFond is most known for her technical range in delivering everything from effortless looks to sculpted artwork and for her versatility with all hair textures.

Nikki Nelms (@nikkinelms) is a master stylist with celebrity clientele, such as Janelle Monáe, Zoë Kravitz, Yara Shahidi and Solange. Nikki is honored as an individual who is driving and shaping the future of beauty.

Randy Stodghill (@hairjunkierandy) is a celebrity hairstylist, known for working with Angela Bassett, Sza, Anika Noni Rose, Meagan Good, Christina Milian, The Kardashians , Sanaa Lathan, Mel B., Aja Naomi King, Morgan Dudley and Leona Lewis.

Vernon François (@vernonfrancois) is a British-born, Los Angeles-based, celebrity hairstylist and educator. Obsessed with hair since childhood, Vernon works with all hair textures, championing the versatility of kinks, coils and curls. As well as creating some of the most talked about A-list hairstyles, Vernon helps individuals erase any fear of managing their hair at home through embracing the shape, volume and personality of their hair’s true texture.