On May 5, 2025, the Met Gala dazzled attendees with its theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," shining a spotlight on the rich history and cultural significance of Black fashion. Among the standout moments was actress Laura Harrier, who made a striking entrance in a custom outfit designed by Zac Posen, the newly appointed Executive Vice President and Creative Director of Gap Inc. Posen's design for Harrier was not just a fashion statement; it was a heartfelt homage to her family's legacy and the broader narrative of Black dandyism.
Posen drew inspiration from archival photographs of Harrier's father and grandfather, capturing their essence in a modern context. "Those archival photos of Laura’s father and grandfather in their Sunday best were incredibly moving," Posen told WWD ahead of the gala. "I like the presence they had in those images — the attitude they embodied, which in part inspired the look for Laura. It was the starting place for the inspiration and attitude of the piece." Harrier echoed these sentiments, stating, "Those photos are more than just style — they’re about pride, presence and the way Black men in my family used fashion to express dignity. Seeing that legacy reimagined by Zac and brought to life on a stage like the Met Gala feels full circle. It’s emotional, honestly."
The ensemble featured a unique blend of materials, including raw, natural denim and luxurious double-face duchess silk satin, reflecting Gap's heritage while also pushing the boundaries of traditional tailoring. Posen remarked, "I hope it shows that tailoring can be more than just a silhouette — it can be a statement of identity, belonging and creative autonomy. This look challenges rigid binaries around masculinity and femininity, formality and rebellion. It’s about owning your narrative and showing up with intention."
Harrier's outfit was not only visually stunning but also deeply personal, as she described it as a form of storytelling. "They speak to heritage and luxury, strength and grace," she said. "And Zac’s sculptural touch made it feel powerful. I’ve never worn anything like it, and I’ve never felt more connected to a look." The actress paired her outfit with a choker necklace, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
As the evening unfolded, Harrier's beauty look also drew attention. Makeup artist Harold James crafted a glowing, skin-first approach with subtle pops of color, ensuring that Harrier felt like herself. "The products we used enhance her skin instead of covering it up," James explained. Harrier added, "For my makeup tonight, I just really wanted to collaborate with my makeup artist, Harold James, who is someone who's very dear to me. Together, we always really come up with looks that feel like me but are still elevated."
In a significant departure from her previous red carpet appearances, Harrier opted to wear her natural curls, stating, "It’s really something new and it feels like me that I'm embracing." This decision marked a pivotal moment in her style journey, showcasing her commitment to authenticity.
Posen, who has been a prominent figure in the fashion industry, attended his first Met Gala as a teenage intern in 1997. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, "I feel like I’ve been ideating since the day I was born. Self-expression, identity, power of dress, and the subversive or rebellious quality of dress have been a theme of self-exploration my entire life." His deep connection to the theme of the gala was evident in his design process, as he sought to honor the historical significance of Black dandyism through his work.
"Dandyism was both a form of rebellion and a uniform of entry," Posen noted. "I wanted to honor that dichotomy by applying a sculptural technique to tailoring—treating a pant look with the reverence I typically reserve for a gown." This approach not only celebrated individuality but also challenged conventional gender norms in fashion.
The collaboration between Posen and Harrier exemplified a fusion of artistry and personal narrative, with the design serving as a celebration of heritage and identity. The outfit was crafted in the Gap Studio, where Posen reimagined American classics through a couture lens. The combination of raw denim, cotton organdie sleeves, and silk satin pants reflected a modern interpretation of traditional tailoring.
As the Met Gala continues to evolve, the significance of events like these cannot be understated. They provide a platform for designers and artists to push creative boundaries while also engaging in meaningful conversations about culture and identity. Posen's commitment to this dialogue was further emphasized by his reflections on the late André Leon Talley, a prominent figure in fashion who championed the importance of self-expression through dress.
"André was a fairy godfather to so many of us. He made space for dreams. He carried the future forward," Posen stated. This sentiment resonated throughout the evening, as attendees celebrated not only fashion but also the stories and legacies that it represents.
In addition to Harrier's stunning look, Posen debuted his own custom suit from Banana Republic, inspired by the "London Drape". This choice underscored his commitment to blending American and Italian tailoring, showcasing the versatility of denim in high fashion. "For this suit, I used a wool-linen blend from the renowned Marzotto mill, reimagining a denim-inspired tuxedo," he explained.
The 2025 Met Gala was a testament to the power of fashion as a form of expression and identity. As guests walked the blue carpet, it became clear that this year's theme was not just about style; it was a celebration of culture, heritage, and the ongoing evolution of Black fashion. With designers like Posen leading the charge, the future of fashion looks bright, bold, and beautifully diverse.
