Model and actress Elizabeth Hurley had been associated with Versace ever since she wore its little black dress held together by safety pins to a movie premiere in 1994, so it was no surprise that when the late Italian designer was honored by the Costume Institute in 1997, Hurley stepped out in a lavender curve-hugging Versace gown.
Iconic Met Ball Gowns
Each spring the brightest stars of the fashion, film, and society worlds turn out for the Costume Institute's Met Ball in New York. And this year, TIME looks back at the 15 best dresses at the Ball since 1995.