Diana Ross made a show-stopping return to the Met Gala on May 5, 2025, dazzling attendees with her stunning ensemble that carried deep personal significance. The legendary singer, who last attended the prestigious event in 2003, arrived in an exquisite white gown designed in collaboration with her son Evan Ross and Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie. This gown was not just a fashion statement; it was a heartfelt tribute to her family.
As she graced the red carpet, Ross's gown sparkled with beads and crystals, flowing into an impressive 18-foot train that required the assistance of six handlers to manage its grandeur. This dramatic entrance echoed the unforgettable moments of past Met Galas, reminiscent of Rihanna's iconic appearance in 2015. Ross's son Evan, who also wore a design by Mozie, was among those helping to carry the train, emphasizing the familial bond that inspired this year's look.
In a candid moment with Vogue, Ross revealed that her decision to attend was a last-minute one, spurred by her son’s encouragement. "My son persuaded me because I'm actually on tour. He said, 'Mom, you've gotta go,'" she shared. The gown itself, which she affectionately dubbed the "family gown," was embroidered with the names of all her children and eight grandchildren, making it a wearable tribute to her legacy. "If you ever had pictures of the inside of the train, it has the names of all my children and my eight grandchildren," Ross explained, highlighting the emotional weight behind the design.
Ross's appearance at the Met Gala coincided with the evening's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which celebrated 300 years of Black sartorial excellence. This theme was inspired by Monica L. Miller's book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. The event featured co-chairs including Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, alongside Vogue’s Anna Wintour and honorary chair LeBron James, who withdrew at the last minute due to a knee injury.
Tracee Ellis Ross, Diana Ross's daughter and a successful actress in her own right, also made an appearance at the gala. Arriving in a striking pink ensemble designed by Marc Jacobs, Tracee expressed her admiration for her mother, stating, "What I explain to people is that my mother stops time. Obviously, it stops when you look at her and when she shows up somewhere like this because she never comes out—it’s a show stopper." Her words echoed the sentiment shared by many who witnessed Diana's radiant comeback.
For Diana Ross, the Met Gala is not just a fashion event; it is a celebration of her enduring legacy and influence. At 80 years old, she continues to redefine what it means to be a diva—glamorous, grounded, and gracefully intertwining her personal story with her public persona. The gown, while custom-made for her, conveyed a universal message: family is always in fashion.
Looking ahead, Ross is set to embark on her "Celebrating Timeless Classics" tour across the UK and Europe, starting June 22 in Birmingham. With shows planned in London, Paris, and Montreux, Switzerland, fans are eager to hear the iconic voice that has defined generations. "I’m never going to retire—they’re going to have to drag me off the stage!" Ross declared in a recent Facebook post, emphasizing her dedication to her craft and her audience.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that Diana Ross's return to the Met Gala was not just about fashion; it was a poignant reminder of the legacy she has built over decades. With a gown that celebrated her family and a spirit that continues to inspire, Ross proved once again that she is not only a music icon but also a beloved matriarch whose influence transcends generations.
This year's Met Gala will be remembered not only for its celebration of Black style but also for the emotional depth brought by Diana Ross's return. Her presence on the carpet was a testament to the power of family and the enduring impact of her artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion world.
