The 2025 Met Gala was a night to remember, filled with dazzling fashion and star-studded after-parties that kept the energy alive long into the early hours of the following day. Held on May 5, 2025, this year's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," was brilliantly showcased by a host of A-listers who celebrated in style across various venues in New York City.
One of the most talked-about events was the "Phenomenal Affair" after-party hosted by Janelle Monáe at the Public Hotel. Monáe, a fitting choice to embody the gala's theme, welcomed guests to the event, which featured a striking 65-foot velvet red-carpet tunnel dubbed the "Tunnel of Tailoring." Alongside her, Grammy-winning rapper Doechii co-hosted the event, drawing in a crowd that included Questlove, Bebe Rexha, Chance the Rapper, Padma Lakshmi, and Coco Rocha.
As the night unfolded, the atmosphere was electric. Monáe, known for her bold fashion choices, made a statement by arriving at the party without a shirt, dressed in a sailor-inspired ensemble complete with high-waisted shorts, a jacket, and anchor-themed pasties. Her entourage mirrored her daring style, wearing black bikini bottoms paired with tailored jackets and top hats. The partygoers danced to nostalgic hits from the 90s and early 2000s, with the crowd particularly enjoying "Back That Azz Up" by Juvenile.
Meanwhile, the celebrations continued at other exclusive after-parties across the city. At Zero Bond, Stella McCartney and Charlotte Tilbury hosted a gathering where Anne Hathaway was seen celebrating. The event was a star-studded affair, with notable appearances from Scott Sartiano, Tom Brady, and Jon Chetrit, who mingled and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky also made headlines by hosting their own after-party at Jean’s, where the couple celebrated in style, with Rihanna proudly displaying her baby bump. Guests included Sabrina Carpenter and Jenna Ortega, who were seen arm-in-arm, along with Heidi Klum and Spike Lee, adding to the star power of the event.
At Casa Cipriani, Richie Akiva hosted another Met Gala after-party, attended by Colman Domingo, Doja Cat, and Jaden Smith. The venue buzzed with excitement as guests reveled in the evening's festivities. Pharrell Williams took a different approach, organizing an After Hours Uno Tournament at the Crane Club, where Simone Biles, Pink Pantheress, Halle Bailey, and Keke Palmer were among the guests enjoying the unique twist on the traditional after-party.
As the clock struck midnight, the A-listers began filtering into the Two Fifteen cocktail lounge, where a more exclusive group of guests mingled into the early morning hours. The atmosphere was relaxed, with nightcaps, French fries, and caviar bumps on offer, allowing the stars to unwind after a night of glitz and glamour.
In a separate but equally captivating story, the 2025 Met Gala sparked discussions about its guest list, particularly regarding former President Donald Trump. Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue and a long-time co-chair of the Met Gala, has been a vocal critic of Trump. In 2017, during an appearance on James Corden's "Late Late Show," she stated, "I would never invite him back" to the gala. This remark has led to speculation about an unofficial ban on Trump from future events.
Despite his past attendance, with his last appearance recorded in 2012, the question of whether Trump was formally banned from the gala has been a topic of debate. While no official guest list is released, it is clear that since Wintour's comments, Trump has not been seen at the Met Gala. A spokesperson for Condé Nast, which owns Vogue, stated, "We never discuss guest list or speculation around it on record," leaving the public to wonder about the true status of Trump's invitations.
As the Met Gala continues to be a focal point of fashion and celebrity culture, the events surrounding it reflect not only the glamour of the night but also the underlying tensions and controversies that can arise in such high-profile gatherings. From extravagant after-parties to discussions about guest lists, the Met Gala remains a significant event on the cultural calendar.
In conclusion, the 2025 Met Gala and its subsequent after-parties showcased an impressive array of talent, creativity, and style. With a theme that celebrated Black culture and tailoring, it brought together some of the most influential figures in fashion and entertainment. As the night drew to a close, it was clear that the legacy of the Met Gala continues to evolve, captivating audiences and participants alike with its blend of fashion, fun, and a hint of controversy.
