The 2025 Met Gala took place on Monday night, May 5, 2025, at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, drawing a star-studded crowd eager to showcase their fashion under this year's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." This theme celebrates the museum's upcoming exhibition, which opens on May 10, and explores the rich history of Black fashion and style, particularly focusing on Black dandyism and its impact on identity within the Atlantic diaspora.
With the dress code set as "Tailored to You," attendees embraced the opportunity to flaunt their personal styles, resulting in an evening filled with stunning outfits that captivated onlookers and ignited conversations on social media.
Among the standout figures was Motown legend Diana Ross, who attended the gala for the first time in over 20 years. She made a grand entrance in a magnificent white gown featuring an 18-foot train embroidered with the names of her family members, a collaborative effort with her son Evan and Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie. Social media erupted with praise, with one user exclaiming, "Ross LITERALLY CLEARED EVERYONE OMFG ICONIC."
Another highlight of the night was actor Damson Idris, who turned heads with a striking red Tommy Hilfiger suit. His outfit featured a dramatic reveal, as he initially appeared in a white racing suit, which he tore off to showcase the tailored look underneath. This theatrical presentation earned him accolades from fashion commentator Derek Guy, known as "the menswear guy" on social media.
Janelle Monáe also made a statement, collaborating with designer Tom Browne and costume designer Paul Tazewell. Monáe donned a structured, pinstriped cape that depicted a suit, before unveiling a bold tailored jacket and skirt ensemble in striking red, black, and white. Completing her look were a bowler hat, monocle, and a brooch featuring a diamond made from tequila, symbolizing the impact of diamond mining on African nations.
The event was a showcase of creativity, with numerous celebrities stepping out in unique interpretations of the theme. From Tessa Thompson to Jodie Turner-Smith, and Lupita Nyong'o, the Met Gala attendees brought their A-game, determined to leave a lasting impression.
This year, the gentlemen also stepped up their fashion game, breaking the tradition of mundane suits. While some opted for more traditional looks, many men embraced the theme with imaginative styles. One user on social media remarked, "It’s such a breath of fresh air to see the men nail the Met Gala theme and be creative for once!!"
However, it wasn't just the Black celebrities who commanded attention. K-pop star Lisa and pop singer Sabrina Carpenter made waves with their pantless outfits, drawing mixed reactions from the internet. Lisa's ensemble, a lacy bodysuit designed by Louis Vuitton, featured an embroidered image of civil rights activist Rosa Parks, which sparked controversy among some viewers. Carpenter, on the other hand, explained that she was advised by Pharrell Williams to forgo pants due to her shorter stature, opting instead for a dramatic take on a dandy tailcoat.
Lewis Hamilton, co-chair of the gala alongside Pharrell Williams and others, took his role seriously by purchasing a table and inviting a group of esteemed Black women in art and entertainment. In an Instagram post, Hamilton expressed his desire to uplift these women, stating, "You can't speak on Black dandyism, Black art, or Black aesthetics without honoring the Black women who shaped, nurtured, and redefined it all." His guest list included notable figures such as Lauryn Hill and Regina King, highlighting his commitment to celebrating Black excellence.
Omar Sy, attending his first Met Gala, wore a green double-breasted suit designed by Ozwald Boateng, crafted from fabric symbolizing self-truth and integrity. He emphasized the importance of the gala's theme, stating, "It gives us more strength moving forward, because there are still so many things to fight."
The Met Gala also served as a fundraiser for the museum, raising more money than ever since its inception nearly 80 years ago. This year, the event not only inaugurated the exhibition but also highlighted the historical significance of Black dandyism, with attendees showcasing a variety of styles, from pastel to pinstripe suits, and even musical instruments, as seen with Jon Batiste bringing a saxophone.
Fashion historian Jye Marshall noted that the no-pants trend, which has gained momentum in recent years, was also evident at the gala. The trend, which emphasizes individualism and body positivity, was embraced by several attendees, including Carpenter and Lisa. Marshall explained that this shift in fashion aligns with a broader cultural movement towards self-expression and empowerment.
As the night unfolded, it became clear that the 2025 Met Gala was not just a celebration of fashion but also a powerful statement about identity and culture. With the theme focusing on Black style and history, the event fostered a sense of unity and pride among attendees, who showcased their heritage through their outfits.
In a night filled with memorable moments, the Met Gala once again proved to be a critical platform for dialogue about fashion, culture, and the ongoing evolution of identity in the world today. As the stars walked the floral carpet, they not only celebrated their individual styles but also the collective legacy of Black fashion and artistry.
