On May 5, 2025, Jenna Ortega made a striking statement at the Met Gala, showcasing a custom-designed dress by Balmain that left fashion enthusiasts buzzing. The event, themed "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," celebrated the artistry behind Black dandyism and the influence of tailoring in fashion. Ortega's dress, a breathtaking creation by Olivier Rousteing, was crafted entirely from metallic rulers, transforming a simple measuring tool into a stunning couture piece.
The strapless gown shimmered under the lights of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, drawing attention with its unique structure that resembled sculpted steel. Balmain described the dress as "a poetical ode to couture and craftsmanship," emphasizing how the rulers were placed vertically along Ortega's body to enhance her silhouette, creating a bustier effect that hugged her frame perfectly.
Completing her look, Ortega opted for a glamorous Old Hollywood style, with her hair styled in soft waves and a smoky eye that added an edge to her ensemble. She accessorized with understated silver jewelry, including a diamond-studded collar necklace from Grown Brilliance and rings from Hearts on Fire, harmonizing beautifully with the metallic theme of her dress.
This marked Ortega's third appearance at the prestigious gala. She first graced the Met Gala carpet in 2022, wowing the audience with a gothic-inspired ensemble by Thom Browne, and returned in 2023 with a striking look from Valentino. Each year, her fashion choices have showcased an evolution in her style, and this year was no exception, as she embraced a more avant-garde approach.
The 2025 Met Gala's theme, inspired by the Costume Institute's exhibition "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," drew from Monica L. Miller's book, "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity." The dress code, "Tailored for You," encouraged attendees to explore the concept of dandyism and tailoring in their outfits, leading to a night filled with innovative and bold fashion statements.
Ortega's gown stood out not only for its design but also for its commentary on the theme. As Olivier Rousteing noted, the dress referenced the humble instruments of pattern makers, celebrating craftsmanship and the artistry involved in tailoring. The gown's intricate details included fine ruler lines and numbers across the bust, further emphasizing the connection to its origin.
After the gala, Ortega continued the evening by changing into a tuxedo bodysuit with exaggerated padded shoulders, showcasing her versatility and flair for fashion. She was seen attending A$AP Rocky's after-party at Jeans in SoHo, accompanied by fellow actress Sabrina Carpenter, who also opted for a stylish suit paired with a canary-yellow jacket and a matching Louis Vuitton bag.
The Met Gala is renowned for its extravagant displays of creativity and fashion, and this year's event did not disappoint. From Diana Ross's iconic presence on the Met Gala stairs to the array of stunning ensembles worn by other celebrities, the night was a celebration of style and individuality. Ortega's metallic masterpiece was among the most talked-about looks, with many praising her boldness and originality.
Social media erupted with admiration for Ortega's outfit, with fans and critics alike praising her ability to push boundaries while remaining true to her unique aesthetic. Balmain's official Instagram account shared behind-the-scenes footage of the dress's creation, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship involved in bringing Ortega's vision to life. The brand referred to her as embodying their "edgy, modern spirit" in a look that was both striking and thought-provoking.
As the evening unfolded, Ortega's presence at the Met Gala served as a reminder of her rising status in Hollywood. With the anticipation building for the second season of her hit show "Wednesday," which recently released its trailer, fans are eager to see how Ortega continues to evolve in both her fashion choices and her career. In a recent interview, she expressed her desire for her character to delve deeper into antihero territory, moving away from traditional protagonist roles.
Overall, Jenna Ortega's appearance at the 2025 Met Gala was not just a fashion statement; it was a testament to her growth as an actress and a style icon. Her bold choice of a dress made from rulers symbolized a new era in fashion, where creativity knows no bounds. As the night came to a close, Ortega's look was celebrated as one of the highlights of the gala, solidifying her place among the elite of the fashion world.
With her daring designs and a keen eye for style, Jenna Ortega is undoubtedly a name to watch in the coming years. As she continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a modern-day fashionista, audiences can only anticipate what she will bring to the red carpet next.
