The 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, was a dazzling celebration of Black fashion and culture. This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” paid homage to the rich history and influence of Black dandyism, exploring how Black individuals have used fashion as a form of self-expression and resistance throughout history. The accompanying dress code, “Tailored for You,” encouraged guests to bring their personal flair to the red carpet.
Co-chaired by A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton, the event showcased a myriad of interpretations of the theme, with attendees donning everything from classic suiting to avant-garde ensembles. The gala also marked a significant moment as it was the first time the Costume Institute dedicated its spring exhibition solely to Black designers, drawing inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity.
Rihanna made a memorable entrance, revealing her third pregnancy in a striking black-and-gray corseted outfit by Marc Jacobs, accessorized with a red polka-dotted tie and an oversized black fedora. A$AP Rocky, her partner and co-chair, complemented her look with his own stylish ensemble.
Diana Ross returned to the Met Gala red carpet for the first time since 2003, wearing a custom Ugo Mozie gown with an 18-foot train embroidered with the names of her children and grandchildren. The 81-year-old icon’s appearance was met with widespread acclaim.
Zendaya opted for a tailored cream Louis Vuitton suit paired with a wide-brimmed hat, adding a pop of color with her red manicured nails. Bad Bunny collaborated with Prada on a brown suit, accessorized with embellished gloves and a hat paying homage to his Puerto Rican heritage. “We did something special,” he said of his look. “I feel good, and I hope people think I’m looking good.”
Kim Kardashian wore an all-black ensemble by Chrome Hearts, featuring a fitted leather top and skirt, offset with diamond necklaces and strings of pearls. Sir Lewis Hamilton, dressed by Grace Wales Bonner, donned a cream suit, continuing his collaboration with the designer from previous events.
Chappell Roan brought a burst of color in a hot pink patchwork ensemble sourced from eBay, while Demi Moore turned heads in a sculptural black and white striped sequin gown from Thom Browne, resembling a literal men’s tie.
Other notable appearances included Sydney Sweeney in a custom Miu Miu gown inspired by Kim Novak, Dua Lipa in a Chanel look adorned with pearls and feathers, and Sabrina Carpenter in a burgundy Louis Vuitton bodysuit. Barry Keoghan wore a custom Valentino ensemble with floral embroidery, and Lorde returned to the Met Gala in a sleek Thom Browne outfit.
Simone Biles stunned in an electric blue minidress by Harbison Studio, while Coco Jones dazzled in a tailored cream and white look by Manish Malhotra. Colman Domingo, one of the co-chairs, wore a royal blue Valentino cloak paying homage to André Leon Talley, later revealing a patterned suit underneath.
Teyana Taylor arrived in a burgundy cape embroidered with “Harlem Rose,” a nod to her 2018 song “A Rose in Harlem.” Emma Chamberlain debuted a new pixie cut, complementing her backless tailored suit dress by Courrèges. Cynthia Erivo wore a Givenchy ensemble featuring a bedazzled bodice and an extra-long black train.
Tracee Ellis Ross donned a custom Marc Jacobs suit with a giant hot pink bow and matching top hat, while Andre 3000 made a bold statement by strapping a piano replica to his back. Lupita Nyong’o wore a powder blue Chanel suit with a matching hat and transparent cape, and Cardi B appeared in a green Burberry pantsuit with matching nails and eye shadow.
Doechii made her Met Gala debut in a Louis Vuitton suit, combining the brand’s monogram and checkerboard patterns. Janelle Monáe, when asked about her outfit, responded simply, “free,” followed by an expletive. “And when I’m in my suit, that is exactly how I feel,” she said.
The 2025 Met Gala not only celebrated fashion but also highlighted the cultural significance and historical impact of Black style, making it one of the most memorable events in recent history.
