Deepika Padukone made her highly anticipated debut at the MET Gala in 2017, donning a sophisticated white satin gown by Tommy Hilfiger. The dress featured a plunging neckline, a thigh-high slit, and a long train, which she complemented with diamond-studded flowers in her hair and elegant drop earrings. While Deepika Padukone looked radiant, her choice was met with mixed reviews, with many labeling it as too "safe" for such a high-fashion event.

Rihanna’s reaction: Did she critique Deepika’s ‘Safe’ MET Gala choice?

Although her look was stunning, the fashion world had high expectations for the "Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between" theme, and some felt Deepika Padukone's ensemble didn’t quite fit the theme's avant-garde spirit. Adding fuel to the fire, Rihanna, in the same year, ‘liked’ an Instagram post that compared the extravagant dresses of the Gala with Deepika Padukone's white satin gown. The post humorously pointed out the lack of theme alignment, which led to speculation that Rihanna’s reaction could be a subtle critique of Deepika Padukone’s outfit.

Reddit reacts: Fans weigh in on Deepika Padukone’s 2017 MET Gala look

This incident reignited discussions when the image resurfaced on Reddit, quickly going viral. Many fans expressed their thoughts, with some defending Deepika Padukone’s look, arguing that the shade in the post was aimed at multiple attendees who didn't fully embrace the theme. Others, however, felt that the actress missed the mark and that her airport looks had more flair than her MET Gala appearance.

Deepika Padukone’s MET Gala evolution: From safe to iconic in 2019

Deepika Padukone made a striking return to the MET Gala in 2018, opting for a bold red Prabal Gurung gown. However, it was her appearance in 2019 that truly turned heads. Deepika Padukone stunned in a custom bubblegum pink Zac Posen gown, a show-stopping look that many consider her most iconic MET Gala moment. The dress, with its form-fitting neckline and voluminous skirt, captured the essence of a real-life Barbie, leaving an unforgettable impression on the fashion world.