The Met Gala outdid itself on Monday, May 5, 2025, raising a record $31 million for the Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. This year's theme, "Tailored for You," was inspired by the museum's new exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which opens on May 10, and celebrates 300 years of Black fashion, culture, and history. Notably, this gala was the first to focus on Black designers and menswear.
As always, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour reigned supreme as head co-chair, alongside a star-studded committee that included Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, and LeBron James, who served as an honorary chair. The host committee featured prominent figures such as Simone Biles, Regina King, Spike Lee, Usher, and Boston's own Emmy-winning star Ayo Edebiri.
Everyone brought their A-game, showcasing creativity and style. Ayo Edebiri stunned in a floor-length Ferragamo white gown adorned with beaded red details and a black leather jacket. She shared that her father, whom she described as "one of the dandiest men I know," inspired her look.
Doja Cat, always a fashion risk-taker, wore a custom-structured pinstripe bodysuit by Marc Jacobs, featuring sculptural elements that enhanced her silhouette. Zendaya's appearance was equally breathtaking as she evoked a retro chic vibe in a custom white silk single-breasted tuxedo by Louis Vuitton, complete with a waistcoat, tie, felt hat, and flared trousers.
Janelle Monáe made a statement in a black and white bowler hat and monocle, donning an oversized red, black, and white striped jacket that she later removed to reveal a form-fitting black-and-red pinstriped skirted suit by Thom Browne, complete with a briefcase.
Event co-chair Colman Domingo turned heads in a bright blue, pleated, and floor-sweeping Valentino cape, which paid homage to the late fashion journalist André Leon Talley, who famously wore a cape to the Gala. Underneath, he revealed a bespoke black and white suit featuring a windowpane jacket and a polka dot necktie.
Lupita Nyong'o, an ambassador for Chanel, showcased the house's famed tailoring in a custom aquamarine lurex wool pantsuit, complete with a satin collar, matching bow tie, hat, and a shimmering crystal brooch. Bad Bunny paid tribute to his heritage with a multiple-shades-of-brown Prada suit, accessorized with a Puerto Rican pava hat and an oversized leather bowling bag.
Pharrell Williams looked sharp in a black and white Louis Vuitton ensemble, featuring black pants and a white double-breasted jacket, accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewelry and shades. Serena Williams channeled old Hollywood glam in an ice blue Moncler gown, paired with a sparkly long coat and stunning golden finger waves.
However, it was the legendary Diana Ross who truly stole the spotlight. Making her first Met Gala appearance since 2003, she wore a jaw-dropping 60-pound, 18-foot-long gown by Eleven Sixteen, embroidered with the names of her five children and eight grandchildren. Her grand return was a masterclass in making a statement on the red carpet, celebrated not only her legacy but also the night dedicated to Black dandyism.
Meanwhile, on May 8, 2025, black smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, signaling that no new pope had been elected yet. This marked the first full day of voting in the conclave of 133 cardinals working to elect the successor to Pope Francis. After two inconclusive votes, the next vote was scheduled for later that morning.
In other news, Diana Ross, now 81, shared her four simple tips for aging well, which she highlighted during her stunning appearance at the Met Gala. Her advice includes maintaining a routine and being devoted to family, reflecting her personal philosophy on life and wellness.
In a lighter story, an 8-year-old boy named Liam from Kentucky left his mother, Holly LaFavers, in shock after he ordered nearly 70,000 Dum-Dum lollipops on Amazon. Fixated on throwing a carnival for his friends, Liam managed to rack up a bill of $4,200 while using his mother's phone, which she discovered only when her bank account was overdrawn. "I lost my mind," she recounted, but the saga eventually turned into a happy ending for both mother and son.
As the Met Gala showcased the heights of fashion and creativity, other events like the papal conclave and the amusing antics of a young boy ordering lollipops remind us of the diverse tapestry of stories that capture our attention. From the elegance of the red carpet to the unexpected surprises of daily life, these moments keep us engaged and entertained.
