Kendall Jenner made headlines at the 2025 Met Gala, an event she has graced since 2014, showcasing her evolution as a fashion icon. This year, the 29-year-old model arrived in a custom-made outfit that sparked a wave of reactions from fans and critics alike. While some praised her look as "poised," "classy," and "elegant," others were less impressed, suggesting that her outfit resembled something from a fast fashion retailer like Zara.
Despite the mixed reviews on her attire, it was the underlying drama surrounding her attendance that captured the public's attention. Reports surfaced that Rihanna, the Fenty Beauty mogul, had allegedly sought to blacklist Jenner from the gala due to a longstanding feud. This animosity reportedly stemmed from Jenner's friendship with Chris Brown, who infamously assaulted Rihanna during their relationship. Adding fuel to the fire, Jenner's past relationship with A$AP Rocky, who is now married to Rihanna, further complicated matters.
A source close to the situation revealed to Radar Online that Rihanna had planned to leverage A$AP Rocky's co-chair status at the gala to exclude Jenner. "Now she’s going to use the Met Gala to get a bit of petty revenge," the insider stated. However, it seems that any ill feelings were set aside as Kendall confidently strutted down the red carpet, showcasing her look alongside her best friend, Hailey Bieber.
Hailey also made waves at the gala, attending without her husband, Justin Bieber, who has historically attended the event sparingly. She opted for a striking Saint Laurent mini blazer dress, which perfectly aligned with the gala’s theme of “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Fashion critics praised her choice, noting how it highlighted her model physique and showcased her individual style. Fashion analyst Morgan Lewis remarked, "Hailey’s choice to attend solo allowed her individual style to truly shine. The tailored blazer dress was both a nod to the event’s theme and a statement of confident independence.”
Fans took to social media to express their thoughts on the duo's appearances. While some lamented the absence of the couples, others celebrated the models' confidence in attending solo. Many noted Justin's supportive Instagram post sharing Hailey’s look, while others speculated whether his absence had anything to do with recent media coverage.
In a delightful twist, both Kendall and Hailey unintentionally coordinated their outfits, each opting for blazer-inspired looks that captured the essence of the gala's theme. Celebrity stylist Eliza Chen humorously commented, "When best friends accidentally coordinate their Met Gala looks, it’s like finding out you both bought the same dream house without telling each other." This moment of synchronization was seen as a testament to their genuine connection and similar aesthetic sensibilities.
The evening also saw Kendall attending alongside her sisters Kim and Kylie, though Kourtney, Khloé, and Kris were notably absent. This partial family representation mirrored similar reunions at the event, such as BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Rosé, who captivated fans with their appearances.
As the night unfolded, the Met Gala showcased not just fashion but personal expression. Kendall's looks, both at the gala and the subsequent after-parties, emphasized her status as a fashion icon. She later dazzled in a vintage black Mugler ensemble complemented by a tilted hat, further solidifying her place in the fashion world. The outfit featured a black wool crepe faille suit with a peplum jacket lined in blush satin, accessorized with black heels and flawlessly styled hair.
Social media reactions to the Met Gala were divided, with fans forming two distinct camps: those who championed the independence of Kendall and Hailey and those who questioned the absence of their partners. The night’s highlights included not just the fashion but the camaraderie between Kendall and Hailey, which many described as "friendship goals." One commentator noted, "They’re like fashion soulmates who just happen to be best friends." This sentiment echoed throughout social media, showcasing the strength of their bond amidst the surrounding drama.
As the Met Gala continues to evolve, it becomes clear that the event serves as a platform for individual artistic expression rather than just couple showcases. Kendall and Hailey’s appearances exemplified this shift, proving that sometimes the most powerful statement is simply being yourself—partner optional, confidence required.
In the end, the 2025 Met Gala was a night filled with surprises, from Rihanna's pregnancy reveal to the unexpected moments shared between Kendall and Hailey. The night will be remembered not just for the fashion but for the friendships and the personal stories that unfolded on one of the biggest nights in the fashion calendar.
