Fashion's biggest night unfolded at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City on May 5, 2025, as the 2025 Met Gala celebrated the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." This year's event, co-chaired by Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Vogue's Anna Wintour, marked a significant moment as it was the first time since 2003 that the gala focused predominantly on menswear.
The theme pays homage to Black dandyism, exploring the importance of clothing and style in shaping Black identities throughout the Atlantic diaspora. According to Vogue, the exhibition will feature 12 characteristics of Black dandyism, showcasing the evolution of style from the 18th century to the present day.
As the red carpet rolled out, excitement buzzed in the air. The official livestream, hosted by Teyana Taylor, La La Anthony, and Ego Nwodim, began at 6:00 p.m. ET, allowing fans to witness the glamour from the comfort of their homes. The red carpet coverage on E! started at the same time, promising a star-studded evening filled with fashion and flair.
This year's gala attracted a plethora of celebrities, each interpreting the theme in their unique style. Music icons Megan Thee Stallion, Miley Cyrus, and Sabrina Carpenter were among the first to arrive, showcasing their interpretations of the theme. Megan Thee Stallion donned a silver dress with fur accents, while Miley Cyrus opted for a sleek black gown, and Sabrina Carpenter's look was equally striking.
Colman Domingo, who played a pivotal role in shaping the evening, expressed how the theme reflects the significance of Black culture. "I feel like a king," he said, highlighting the importance of storytelling through fashion. His outfit, designed by Valentino, featured a striped jacket and a dramatic floral lapel pin, embodying the essence of dandyism.
Wintour, a longstanding figure in the Met Gala's history, echoed similar sentiments. "It is putting a spotlight on amazing Black talent... At this moment in our political history, I think it is important to stand next to the Black community," she remarked, emphasizing the gala's role in addressing contemporary issues.
Among the notable attendees, legendary singer Diana Ross made a statement in an all-white gown adorned with feathers and a long train, which required assistance to carry. Bad Bunny, wearing a brown Prada suit that honored his Puerto Rican heritage, expressed his excitement, saying, "We did something special. I feel good, and I hope people think I'm looking good." His outfit included a traditional pava hat, showcasing his cultural roots.
Zendaya, known for her daring fashion choices, arrived in a tailored all-white suit ensemble, complete with a wide-brimmed hat. The star, who co-chaired last year's gala, once again turned heads with her sophisticated look. Similarly, Gigi Hadid celebrated her 30th birthday in a stunning gold Miu Miu dress, adding to the night's glamour.
Notably, the Met Gala's guest list included a diverse range of personalities, from athletes like Simone Biles to fashion icons like Whoopi Goldberg, who sported a top hat and a fitted white coat designed by Thom Browne. Other attendees included Jamie Singer Soros, who wowed in a royal blue tailored suit-dress, and Wendi Murdoch, who donned a gold and white embellished suit.
The evening was not without its challenges, as NBA star LeBron James announced via social media that he would not attend due to a knee injury sustained just days before the event. Despite his absence, his influence as honorary chair remained felt throughout the gala.
As the night progressed, the blue carpet, adorned with daffodils, became a canvas for artistic expression. The carpet's design, led by artist Cy Gavin, symbolized hope and resilience, drawing inspiration from the daffodil's scientific name and its connection to self-recognition.
Fashion critic Kpoene Kofi-Bruce noted the significance of the capes worn by several guests, including Teyana Taylor and Coco Jones. These garments not only embraced the theme but also paid homage to historical fashion statements, further enriching the narrative of the evening.
The Met Gala has always been a platform for fundraising, and this year was no exception. The event raised a record $31 million for the Costume Institute, ensuring that the legacy of fashion and culture continues to thrive.
As the night drew to a close, the Met Gala once again proved its status as a cultural phenomenon, uniting stars from various fields in a celebration of creativity, identity, and style. With the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," the event not only honored the past but also paved the way for future expressions of Black culture in fashion.
