The hottest star on this year’s Met Gala red carpet is…technology. At the intersection of fashion, science, and engineering, these looks pushed couture into a new era of innovation.

Check out the science and technology behind some of our favorite Met Gala moments.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe stunned in a custom Christian Siriano ensemble that fused nature with technology — featuring cascading cords woven through sculptural greenery, blurring the line between organic materials and engineered design. The look was brought to life with embedded animatronics by Cameron Hughes, adding subtle movement and a dynamic, almost living quality to the outfit.

Eileen Gu

Eileen Gu wore a custom “tech-couture” mini dress by Iris van Herpen, created in collaboration with A.A. Murakami. The design integrated hidden microprocessors beneath the skirt, transforming the garment into a fully interactive piece. The embedded tech released floating bubbles in precisely timed sequences, turning the dress into a kinetic, programmable experience.

Mona Patel

Mona Patel wore a sculptural Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda look inspired by Leonardo da Vinci and the intersection of art and science. The ivory design drew directly from human anatomy, with intricate draping and structural detailing that echoed the form of the spine and body.

Nichapat Suphap

Nichapat Suphap wore a futuristic look by Robert Wun that reimagined The Creation of Adam — replacing the human touch with a robotic, cybernetic hand. The standout feature: a moveable silver “robot hand” created in collaboration with kinetic artist Casey Curran. Engineered with mechanical elements, the piece introduced motion directly into the design.

Which look was your favorite this year? Let us know in the comments below.

As we wrap up October’s spooky season, let’s remember: the only things that should be creeping up on you are witches and vampires, not cyber threats lurking in the shadows! As many of you know, October is also Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which makes sense, because what could be scarier than having your personal information spread without your permission?

At Girls Who Code, we’ve spent the last few weeks providing our students with resources, tools, and tricks to keep themselves safe online. But, we’re also committed to helping our community build a secure world all year long. Because cybersecurity is about more than making sure they have the strongest password possible (though, that’s extremely important, too). It’s also about making sure they have all the protection and knowledge they need to keep malicious actors from slithering into their digital world.

Let’s be honest, all our lives are becoming more and more online. By the time our students reach high school, they’re using the internet for homework, for research, and for communicating with teachers and classmates. Hundreds of seemingly basic tasks are automated through apps, and social media has made students visible to millions of people around the world. While this has made the lives of so many young people easier, more exciting, and more expansive, it’s also made them vulnerable in ways we may not even realize.

That’s why we were so excited to work withThe Achievery, created by AT&T, to roll out some essential cybersecurity Learning Units for 9th-10th grade students. In today’s tech-driven environment, understanding cybersecurity isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential. Our students are diving into practical tips, like keeping software up to date and spotting phishing emails, while also learning the importance of visiting secure websites (you know, those with https:// instead of http://).

We also want them to feel empowered to share this knowledge within their communities. Plus, they get useful checklists for adjusting browser settings on their devices. With units like “Online Privacy,” “Defend Against Malware and Viruses!,” and “DNS (Domain Name System) Uncovered,” we’re not just teaching them about cybersecurity; we’re helping them build a safer online future for themselves and others. We encourage our community to check out these, and so many other free and accessible tools, on The Achievery, which works to make digital learning more entertaining, engaging, and inspiring for K-12 students everywhere.

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month wraps up, let’s keep empowering our students to embrace the internet’s benefits while confidently navigating its challenges. All young people deserve to protect themselves while enjoying a safer online experience that inspires them to thrive in the digital world.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! At Girls Who Code we want to uplift Hispanic and Latina voices and stories this month (and every month tbh!) That’s why we want to hold a space to shine a light on marginalized voices in tech. Join us as we host a celebratory panel featuring Hispanic and Latina leaders who are making waves in the STEM space…live on from our IG!

Now, let’s meet our panelists:

Dr. Jessica Esquivel is a trailblazing physicist, movement builder, and co-founder of Oyanova Enterprises, which is dedicated to reshaping STEAM education through culturally sensitive, community-driven programming. As one of the few Afrolatine queer women in physics, she champions equitable access to STEAM fields for marginalized communities while prioritizing mental health and representation. Jessica is also an If/Then Ambassador and a former TEDx speaker. With expertise in particle physics, science communication, and equity in STEAM consulting, Jessica is committed to creating transformative, inclusive spaces where Black and Brown individuals can thrive.

Dr. Daisy Rosas Vargas is a first-generation Mexican-American and indigenous (Mexica) chemist, educator, and science communicator. She holds a Bachelor’s in Chemistry from UC San Diego and a PhD from Indiana University. Daisy is dedicated to making science accessible through initiatives like “Chemists in the Kitchen” and “Drawing with Dr. Daisy.” She advocates for underrepresented students in higher education and works to create more inclusive paths in STEM. She is also an Assistant Administrator for Latinas in STEM.

Jocelyn Mata is a Girls Who Code Leadership Academy fellow and a first-generation senior at California State University, Northridge, majoring in Geophysics and Computer Science. She currently serves as the Vice Regional Student Representative 1 (VRSR1) for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) Region 2. Jocelyn has also participated in the NASA Solar System Ambassador Program and aspires to pursue a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Engineering, with the goal of working for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Our panel will be moderated by Girls Who Code AAC Member Dissy Vargas. Dissy is a graduate student at West Texas A&M University, pursuing a degree in Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics. She has been actively involved with Girls Who Code since high school, participating in initiatives such as the Summer Immersion Program, first as a student and later as a teaching assistant. Dissy was also part of the inaugural class of the Leadership Academy. As a proud first-generation college student and Latina, she is passionate about advancing her career in STEM.

Want to join in? Catch us tomorrow as we go live on our Instagram this Thursday at 12:30 PM EST on 10/10.

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Let’s take a look at the cosmetic science behind some of our fave products.

Meet Roselin Rosario-Meléndez, an inventor/polymer cosmetic chemist. Roselin works with extreme wear makeup and holds 37 patent applications worldwide. She is most notably known for her work creating Maybelline’s SuperStay Matte Ink, an extreme wear lipstick. Roselin is an If/Then ambassador, and she was also a part of our #GirlsWhoCode “Make That Change” campaign.

Have you ever wondered how lipstick is actually made? Here’s a first-hand glimpse at the science behind Glossier’s lipstick.

Did you know you can 3D print makeup? Grace Choi’s love of beauty and STEM inspired her to invent the world’s first 3D makeup printer. She currently works at Tiktok and uses STEM to create some of our favorite beauty-inspired filters.

Kristen Wells-Lewis created Black to the Lab, a fun, educational kit that teaches young Black girls about STEM’s impact on the cosmetics industry. She aims to use the science of beauty to open up young girls’ minds to STEM-related career paths.

We want to hear from you! Are you team lipstick, lip oil, or more of a gloss girl? We want your beauty recommendations! 👀 Whether it’s tooth gems or you just stick with chapstick, let us know your fave lip product in our comments.

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Things Black women in tech did: that! From creating GPS to putting the first man on the moon, Black women are behind some of history’s most iconic creations. We think it’s time that these leaders finally get their flowers. Check out these three tech leaders who need to be on your radar.

Aisha Bowe is an out-of-this-world aerospace engineer and former NASA rocket scientist, as well as a STEM mentor and the first Black woman to fly with Blue Origin. She is also the founder and CEO of STEMBoard, an innovative think tank and research and development agency that collaborates with organizations and government agencies to develop new concepts, technologies, and products.

Angie Jones is a powerhouse in tech! As a developer relations executive, international keynote speaker, and workshop instructor, she specializes in software development and decentralized technologies. With over 27 patents and a certification as a Java programmer, Angie has been featured in Ebony Magazine and Business Insider. She was also recognized as one of the nation’s top 30 tech talents under 30.

Barbara Salami is the Vice President of Digital for Commercial at Moderna. She oversees marketing materials to help healthcare providers, government health agencies, and other patient care partners educate health populations. Her work contributes to creating a more informed and proactive community dedicated to safeguarding health.

Need more vision board inspo? Check out MSN’s full list of Black women making waves in science and tech!

Want to learn more about women in STEM? Subscribe to our newsletter for more tech, culture, and #STEMspiration.

Happy Pride Month! At Girls Who Code we want to uplift LGBTQ+ voices and stories this month (and every month tbh!) That’s why we want to hold a space to shine a light on marginalized voices in tech. Join us as we team up with Out In Tech for our #PrideInSTEM panel…live on our IG!

Now, let’s meet our panelists:

Markemia Peterson (she/her), is an Enterprise Technical Specialist Consultant at Microsoft. This Tallahassee, Florida native holds a marketing degree from the University of Florida. With nearly 5 years in pre-sales technology, she specializes in strategic planning and demonstrating business value through product presentations. Her guiding philosophy? “Reach for the stars so if you fall you land on a cloud.”

Veronica Sirotic (she/they) is a Career Services Lead at Break Through Tech AI, a national organization that creates pathways into AI careers for women and non-binary students from diverse backgrounds. She manages the career services and mentorship program for 450+ undergraduates across the country. Prior to their role at BTT, they worked as a Career Advisor and Engagement Manager at the CUNY Tech Prep Program supported by the NYC Tech Talent Pipeline. Outside of work, she is training for the marathon and loves watching trash reality television.

Want to join in? Watch us live on our Instagram this Thursday at 12 PM EST on 6/27.

Ready to learn more about women in STEM? Subscribe to our newsletter for more tech, culture, and #STEMspiration.

Happy Juneteenth! Today marks the oldest national celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States. Whether you’re honoring Black history, celebrating Black culture, or supporting Black-owned businesses, we hope you use this time to learn and uplift the Black community.

We’re so inspired by leaders in tech who are using STEM to do just that and more. Check out these incredible Black women in tech:

Mandy Bowman created the Black Wall Street App, an app that connects users with Black-owned businesses using AI and geolocation technology. Her app has helped circulate over $10 million in sales and business services into Black-owned businesses

Pariss Chandler is the Founder and CEO of Black Tech Pipeline and creator of the popular hashtag #BlackTechTwitter. Her platform helps change the face of tech by offering job opportunities, educational resources, and more for Black technologists.

After pivoting into the tech field, Ashley Loveless created ChewTyme. This food delivery app is similar to Uber Eats but only uses Black-owned restaurants and businesses.

This Juneteenth, how are you using your voice or platform to uplift Black voices? Let us know how you plan to celebrate in the comments below.

Want to learn more about women in STEM? Subscribe to our newsletter for more tech, culture, and #STEMspiration.

Happy Pride Month! At Girls Who Code, we want to celebrate our LGBTQ+ staff, students, and community members, not just in June, but every single day. Join us as we shine a light on amazing queer women and nonbinary leaders who are changing the face of tech. Here are a few trailblazers you need to know about!

Arlan Hamilton is the first Black, queer woman to create her own venture capital firm, which she built while she was experiencing housing insecurity.. In 2015, She launched Backstage Capital which invests in high-potential founders who are women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Backstage has raised over $15 million and supported over 160 startup companies.

DJ_DAVE is a queer‑identifying, experimental electronic‑pop artist, DJ, and producer who makes her music using code — a genre otherwise known as algorave.

Meet DJ_DAVE , a DJ who makes music using code #shorts

She is one of the first artists to combine live coding and DJ mixing simultaneously in her shows.

Dr. Alex Hanna is the Director of Research at the Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR). Her work focuses on the data used in emerging computational technologies and how this data can exacerbate racial, gender, and class inequalities. She holds a BS in Computer Science and Mathematics, as well as a PhD. Hanna, a trans woman of color, states that her identity influences her research, which currently addresses algorithmic fairness and the origins of data used in training machine learning models. Previously, Hanna was a senior research scientist on Google’s Ethical AI Team, but she left to further advocate for diversity and equity in AI.

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Technology, but make it fashion. These women in STEM are combining their love of tech with their passion for fashion (and we’re SO here for it.) Here are a few fashionistas you should know:

Asia Hall is the founder of Neon Cowboys, a fashion-meets-tech company that creates neon-lit hats and accessories. Her hats have been worn by celebrities like Kacey Musgraves and Winnie Harlow.

This TikTok-famous engineer doesn’t follow trends; she invents them. Louise Katzovitz’s inventions include a self-lacing corset and 3D-printed breastplates.

Did you know you can use AI to get a fresh pair of kicks? Venita S. Cooper co-founded Arbit, a Black-owned startup that uses AI to predict sneaker resale prices. Arbit monitors pricing updates by using aggregated data research and predictive analytics to access pricing trends online.

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Tech founder Grace Choi had a passion for both makeup and beauty. This inspired her to invent the world’s first 3D makeup printer. Grace created Mink Beauty, a makeup printer that can turn any image into a wearable shade of cosmetics. She’s also the technologist behind some of our favorite TikTok filters. She works with TikTok as a TikTok Effect House Ambassador, creating filters for brands like Fenty Beauty, Dior, and Kosas.

This 18-year-old is using AI to combat cyberbullying. Gitanjali Rao developed Kindly, a software that scans, finds, and flags language for bullying in social media posts. At age 12, inspired by the Flint water crisis, Gitanjali invented a mobile device to test water for lead. This led to her being named Time’s first-ever Kid Of the Year in 2020.

Computer scientist and Stanford professor Fei-Fei Li has been dubbed the “godmother of AI” for her pioneering research in this field. She’s most notably known for creating ImageNet, the dataset that enabled rapid advances in computer vision in the 2010s.

She went on to co-found AI4ALL, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of artificial intelligence. In 2023, Li was named one of the Time100 AI Most Influential People and was appointed to the United Nations Scientific Advisory Board.

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