British fashion triumphs at Met Ball

British designers triumphed at the annual Met Ball gala, New York's biggest fashion extravaganza of the year.

Chaired by US Vogue's Anna Wintour, the glamorous event saw the launch of the Metropolitan Museum's new exhibition, dedicated to couturier Charles James.

The dress code this year was old school elegance, a far cry from last year's punk theme, and saw the world's leading actresses and models wearing a sea of beautiful, romantic dresses.

Haute couture was a popular choice, with Chanel, Givenchy and Ralph Lauren providing some of the best dresses on the evening.

The Brits, however, came out en force, with Stella McCartney showing her versatility from a pant suit worn by Cara Delevigne to a salmon pink gown worn by Kate Bosborth. High street giant Topshop also created customised dresses, with a yellow gown worn by Jourdann Dunn and a strapless mauve gown worn by model Toni Garrn.

Victoria Beckham had one of the best red carpet looks of the evening, wearing a white column dress from her own collection.

Rihanna also opted for white, choosing a midriff-bearing Stella McCartney creation, while British model and actress Suki Waterhouse wore a custom-made nude ruffled Burberry gown.

Images: Met Ball in pictures