The stars were out in full force at the Met Gala on Monday, except for a few fan favourites

The Met Gala, one of fashion’s most anticipated events of the year, took place on Monday, but several big names were noticeably absent. Fans were left disappointed as style icons Bella Hadid, Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Justin and Hailey Bieber all chose not to attend the glamorous affair.

Held in New York City, the Met Gala this year showcased the Metropolitan Museum’s exhibition “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” and attracted A-list stars such as Rihanna, Serena Williams, and Kim Kardashian. However, Bella Hadid, known for her striking red carpet looks, was absent, leaving fans hoping for her arrival alongside her sister, Gigi Hadid, who dazzled on the red carpet. Bella had attended the previous year’s Met Gala in a daring Burberry gown.

Zendaya, another regular Met Gala guest, also missed the event, as did Beyoncé, who is preparing for the launch of her Renaissance world tour in Stockholm on May 10. The 41-year-old superstar has kept a low profile since her last public appearance at the Grammys in February. Hailey Bieber, a frequent Met Gala attendee, opted to skip this year’s event to focus on her beauty line, Rhode, according to a leaked message. She shared with fans that she would “sit this one out” but planned to return next year.

Other notable absentees included Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry. Blake Lively, who welcomed her fourth child in February, humorously referenced her absence by posting a picture of herself breast pumping, marking her “first Monday of May” away from the iconic event.