How To Create Image Descriptions For Red Carpet Looks

The day after the Met Gala or another red carpet event, some of my friends and family members will tell me to look up specific outfits worn by celebrities or mention a beautiful vibrant dress that they think I would really like. While I don’t watch red carpet events (too many camera flashes), I love looking at the vibrant colors, bold fabrics, patterns, and unique silhouettes from different designers and celebrities in event photos, and use tools like screen magnification and image descriptions to get context and clarification about what I am looking at. Here are my tips for creating image descriptions for red carpet looks, celebrity outfits, and black tie/white tie formalwear.

What is an image description? Is it different than alt text?

Alternative text (alt text) and image descriptions are text-based descriptions of visual details in an image written primarily for people who are visually impaired (inclusive of blind, low vision, and neurological visual impairment). If an image fails to load on a website, alt text will be displayed in its place, and alt text is also used for search engine optimization and image search tools.

The primary goal of alt text and image descriptions should be to answer the following questions:

1. What is in the image?
2. Why is this relevant?
3. What would someone need to know about this image in order to understand it?

When it comes to writing alt text and image descriptions, one helpful strategy is to imagine someone is on a phone call describing an image to a friend, and what details they would want their friend to know about in order to understand the image or following along in conversation. Others may find it more helpful to imagine they are describing an item on a podcast or radio show where the listener can’t ask clarifying questions. Both strategies are intended to help the describer identify what is relevant in an image, and how someone else would be expected to perceive it.

Differences between alt text and image descriptions

Image descriptions are similar to alt text descriptions that are used by screen readers to recognize images, though there are a few key differences between alt text and image descriptions:

Location

Alt text is typically attached to an image metadata or added in the “alt text” box on social media. Image descriptions may be in the image caption, in a text post, or shared in a text link for extended descriptions.

Visibility of alt text/image description

Alt text is usually only visible to screen readers, which read the alt text out loud or display it on a braille display. Image descriptions are “exposed” and can be read by anyone. Saving an image does not save its alt text.

BlueSky, X, and Mastodon are examples of social media platforms that allow users to read alt text whether they have a screen reader or not by selecting the ALT button on an image or gif that has alt text included.

Length of text

A picture is worth a thousand words, but there may only be room for a thousand characters! Alt text is typically limited to 100-250 characters, though most best practice guides recommend keeping alt text to around 125 characters on websites— social media posts often permit longer descriptions. Image descriptions can be the same length or even longer, since they are included in the photo caption, in a text post, or text link.

For social media platforms that have larger character limits for alt text, many users will write longer image descriptions in the alt text field, and reprint the same descriptions in the caption of the post. However, this is not completely necessary for platforms that offer exposed alt text that can be viewed without a screen reader.

Here are the policies for alt text on popular social media platforms, copied from my post on How To Add Alt Text on Social Media.

• Twitter (X) supports alt text up to 1,000 characters, though alt text cannot be added or edited after an image or gif is posted.
• BlueSky supports alt text up to 2,000 characters, though alt text cannot be added or edited after an image is posted.
• Mastodon supports alt text up to 1,500 characters, though alt text cannot be added or edited after an image or gif is posted.
• Instagram supports alt text up to 100 characters, and alt text can be added or edited after a picture is posted.
• Threads supports alt text up to 1,000 characters, though alt text cannot be added or edited after an image is posted.
• Facebook supports alt text up to 100 characters, and alt text can be added or edited after a picture is posted.
• Tumblr supports alt text up to 4,096 characters, and alt text can be added or edited after a picture or gif is posted.
• Pinterest supports alt text up to 800 characters, and alt text can be added to static/image or video pins after they are posted.
• LinkedIn supports alt text up to 120 characters, and alt text cannot be added or edited after a picture is posted

Level of detail

Image descriptions tend to go more in-depth about visual details than alt text due to the larger character limit. Some users prefer to write a more detailed image description and write a shorter description for alt text, since someone using a screen reader would have to listen to the entirety of embedded alt text in order to access an image. For example, alt text might tell a user that an image includes Zendaya at the Met Gala, but image description may go into more detail and share that she is wearing a yellow and red off-the-shoulder floral gown interspersed with red parrots throughout. Both of these descriptions are written with the assumption that Zendaya is the most important detail in the photo, and the user wants to know what she is wearing.

It’s worth noting that some people will use the same text for both alt text and image descriptions, which is an accepted practice. However, I prefer to include more detailed descriptions as exposed image descriptions so everyone can read them whether they have a screen reader enabled or not; users cannot pause or skip around to read alt text descriptions, so lengthy alt text can be frustrating for some users with visual impairments.

Should I use both alt text and image descriptions?

I recommend using both alt text and image descriptions when possible, since image descriptions can also be read in large print or by people who aren’t using screen readers. Some people use the same text for both, while others prefer to write more detail in exposed image descriptions and treat them like image captions. Another strategy to share lengthy image descriptions on social media is to write a basic description of the image as alt text and then link an extended image description to read on another page as part of the post caption.

When sharing exposed descriptions, I recommend using the label “ID:” or “Image Description:” in front of the text so that it is easier to locate. Some creators choose to enclose the description in parenthesis or brackets, which is also helpful for separating the description from the rest of the caption. Using the label “Alt text:” in a caption is also acceptable and conveys the same message, but the term image description is more appropriate.

Related links

• How To Write Alt Text and Image Descriptions for the Visually Impaired
• How To Add Alt Text On Social Media
• How To Write Alt Text And Image Descriptions For Photojournalism Images
• How To Write Alt Text and Image Descriptions For Jewelry
• How To Write Alt Text For Casual Outfits

Recommendations for automatic alt text

Automatic alt text can provide transcriptions of text and basic details about an image, but should be used more as a starting point than as a finished description, as these tools are prone to errors or provide descriptions with too much or too little description. For example, I once read a 2,000 character alt text that described a man in black sitting at a football stadium and yawning; I had no idea why someone posted this until I looked more closely and noticed the photo was Jon Bon Jovi, who was actually cheering while attending the Super Bowl.  Still, there are instances where automatic alt text can help users identify what is in an image, and use this as a starting point for writing a description. My most-used apps for these tasks include Microsoft Seeing AI and Google Lens.

I generally do not recommend using automatic alt text or AI-generated alt text tools without making edits as these descriptions often do not convey the purpose of the image or the context in which it is being shared, and may include either too much detail (e.g. describing the appearance of the background) or not enough detail (e.g. simply writing the picture is a man, or a man at a stadium). This is especially true when sharing photos with people in them or memes, as these images are often shared with specific purposes in mind— alt text should provide context or clarification about what is in the image and enable nonvisual access to visual content.

Related links

• Lemon On A Pear: Accessible Memes For Low Vision
• How To Write Alt Text For Educational Content
• Purposes of Media Descriptions for Visual Impairment
• Recognizing Images With Seeing AI
• How To Access Images Without Alt Text

Image descriptions vs visual descriptions

In this context, a visual description is a strategy for people to share information about what they look like to an audience that might not be able to see them. Visual descriptions are commonly used in settings like conferences, presentations, or schools so that people can share what they look like in their own words, which can help to eliminate unconscious bias or help with identifying others at a later time. Visual descriptions are specifically beneficial for people with visual impairments, inclusive of blind, low vision, and neurological visual impairment (CVI). That said, not all people with visual impairments like visual descriptions or find them useful; as someone with low vision, I personally find them super helpful since it can help me with identifying people later on.

Visual descriptions are constructed in a similar way to image descriptions, but are typically written or provided verbally by the subject, while image descriptions are usually created by someone else. I think it would be really interesting to hear people describe their outfits in their own words, but this is not common practice.

Related links

• How To Create Helpful Visual Descriptions For Visually Impaired Audiences
• My Thoughts On Visual Descriptions With Low Vision
• Meeting Disney Characters With Low Vision
• Meet The Cast: Supporting Literacy For Students With CVI

Things to include in image descriptions for red carpet looks

When writing image descriptions for red carpet outfits, the following information is recommended in approximately this order, though the order can shift if a particular element is the focus of the outfit. For example, if a simple dress is paired with statement shoes, describing the shoes before the dress makes sense. Most image descriptions I encounter are between 3 and 5 sentences long, and alt text is typically 1-2 sentences long.

When writing alt text or an image description, there is no need to write “image of” at the beginning, as the screen reader or other assistive technology will indicate that an image is present. That said, it can be helpful to know what type of image is being shared: photo, painting, drawing, etc.

Who is in the photo

Many people featured at red carpet events are celebrities and public figures with name recognition. If a person has their own Wikipedia page, simply writing their name at the beginning of the description is sufficient; no additional descriptive information is needed unless their appearance is drastically different from usual. For example, some celebrities change their hair for the Met Gala, so it would make sense to note this change, such as “Taylor Swift with platinum blonde hair.”

When the model is unknown or their name is unavailable, including information such as race/ethnicity, gender, hair color, and an optional age or age range is helpful. Including body type or build can also be useful in red carpet descriptions, though mentioning specific clothing sizes is best avoided unless the event is a fashion show or modeling event where size is relevant.

Color(s) of the outfit

When describing colors, use shade names such as cobalt blue, periwinkle, burgundy, lime green, or metallic gold; there is no need to explain what the color red looks like; shade names are perfect for image descriptions. If there are multiple colors in a pattern, start with the base color and then mention the color(s) of pattern elements. For example: “a lavender dress with a three-tiered white lace skirt.”

Pattern

Solid-colored dresses and suits are common, but some of the most interesting looks use patterns or alternating colors. Describing the outfit from top to bottom works well, noting if colors are arranged in a specific way or if a pattern appears in a specific location, such as on the back of a dress or jacket. If a clothing item contains writing, this should be acknowledged as well; that said, repeating text does not necessarily have to be written verbatim.

Outfits that transform on the red carpet

At the Met Gala specifically, several celebrities have worn outfits that transform or change appearances on the red carpet. For example, Blake Lively’s Statue of Liberty dress was tied in an oversized copper bow that was undone to reveal a long turquoise-colored train, symbolizing the oxidation of the Statue of Liberty over time. In another example, Zendaya wore a Cinderella dress that glowed when her stylist waved a wand in front of it.

When showing side-by-side photos of an outfit’s transformation, mentioning what is different in the second photo and how the effect was achieved is recommended. For example: “Zendaya’s stylist waves a magic wand in front of her dress, and vertical light blue lines appear along the body and skirt, creating a glowing effect.”

Outfit material/textures

More suits and red carpet outfits are being made with interesting fabric types and textures, such as brocade, velvet, damask, and lamé. When writing an image description, mention the type of fabric or materials used, or describe different fabrics in the order they appear on the outfit,  such as “lace top with a chiffon skirt.”

The term “materials” is used intentionally here, since not all red carpet outfits use fabric. The first example that came to mind when I thought about this is Lady Gaga’s meat dress at the 2010 VMAs.

Silhouette

Useful questions to consider when describing the silhouette of an outfit:

• What is the shape of the outfit?
• Is it an oversized look, or does it use skintight fabric?
• How does the neckline look?
• Does it have statement sleeves, large embellishments, fabric cut-outs, a long train, or other standout features?

For dresses, silhouette names such as A-line, mermaid, or ball gown are helpful, as are popular terms for necklines such as sweetheart, deep V, or mock neck. If a reader is unfamiliar with a silhouette name, they can look it up, which is far more efficient than a lengthy written explanation.

Unexpected visible/invisible skin

Visible neck, elbows, or ankles are not surprising in a red carpet outfit, but unexpected or statement details, such as a fabric that covers the entire body or a see-through dress, are worth mentioning.

Shoes

The type of shoe should be mentioned, along with its color and any interesting texture or embellishments. The exact height of heels can be difficult to measure in a photo, so an approximation or a term like “sky-high heels” works well. If shoes are not visible or do not stand out, there is no need to mention them, readers will assume the shoes are not relevant to the look, not that the person is barefoot (though if they are barefoot, that would be a relevant detail to mention!).

Interesting jewelry/accessories

Earrings, necklaces, hats, purses, and similar accessories should be mentioned when describing red carpet outfits, especially at events where statement accessories are often coordinated with the overall look. Piercings and body jewelry should also be mentioned if they are part of the outfit. If a person has multiple piercings in one place, such as the ear, it’s okay to write “multiple piercings” or “wearing several silver ball earrings”

Hair

Many celebrities change up their hair for the red carpet by dyeing it a different color, cutting it, or choosing elaborate hairstyles. Unless the hair is the focus of the image, describing it in a sentence or less works well: mention the length, color, texture, and/or style. For example: “caramel brown hair in a half-up hairstyle, featuring a braid in the center twisted to resemble a rose and relaxed shoulder-length curls.”

Bold makeup looks/nails

Makeup and nail looks are generally not included in image descriptions for red carpet outfits unless they are the focus of an image, an over-the-top statement, or clearly different from what would typically be expected at these types of events. For example, bright metallic eye shadow coordinated with the dress, nails with long dangling chains, or facial prosthetics would all be worth mentioning.

Designer’s name

Designers work hard to create these amazing red carpet outfits, and if designer information is available, including the name in the description is a nice touch. This can be mentioned when describing the outfit or as a note at the end. For example: “a Ralph & Russo gown” or “dress designed by Ralph & Russo” would be included when describing Selma Blair’s dress from the 2019 Met Gala.

Bonus: location

To provide context for the image, include the name of the event and/or year as part of the image description. If writing shorter alt text for an image, another option would be to write the name of the celebrity and a basic description of their outfit, followed by mentioning the name/year of an event. For example: “Sinéad Burke wearing a black dress with blue ribbons across the top at Met Gala 2021.”

Do not include: opinions or commentary on an outfit

Avoid providing an opinion on the outfit or the celebrity who is wearing it. Instead, allow whoever is reading the alt text/image description for red carpet outfits to come to their own conclusion on how an outfit looks or if it is appealing to them. If the image is part of a best dressed/worst dressed list where the photo has text or numbers added, include this information before describing the outfit (e.g., “4th best dressed star at 2023 Oscars”).

Related links

• How To Write Image Descriptions About Jewelry For Visual Impairment
• How To Write Image Descriptions For Cosplay
• Visiting The Met With Visual Impairment
• How To Write Alt Text For Casual Outfits
• How To Write Alt Text For Memes
• Choosing Jewelry With Chronic Pain
• Tips For Going To Prom With Chronic Illness

Epilogue

While this post is meant to help guide creators on how to make images taken at red carpet events more accessible for visually impaired audiences, I want to acknowledge that these types of events are often wholly inaccessible for people with disabilities to attend in-person, something that is incredibly frustrating to the scores of amazingly talented disabled people in the entertainment and fashion industries. Amplify the perspectives of the disabled people who are advocating for these events to be more inclusive and accessible to all (such as the work of Marissa Bode and the #YourMoveMet hashtag for accessibility at the Met Gala), and highlight the importance of disability representation at every possible opportunity.

Published May 1, 2023. Updated May 2026