The Met Gala 2025 took the fashion world by storm on May 5, showcasing a dazzling array of stars, including K-pop sensations BLACKPINK and SEVENTEEN, alongside a host of other celebrities from various industries. This year's event, held at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, was themed "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," a tribute to the rich history and cultural significance of Black dandyism.
BLACKPINK's Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé made a striking entrance, marking their first appearance together at the gala. Jennie, known for her previous solo appearances, turned heads in a sharp black suit pant paired with an off-the-shoulder top by Chanel, complete with a long train. To accentuate her dandy style, she added pearl chains and a white-and-black top hat, a departure from her usual couture choices. Speaking to Vogue, Jennie remarked, "I do my best with my research," explaining that her look was inspired by Coco Chanel's iconic runway designs. "It’s Blackpink in your area, back again," she added with excitement about the group's upcoming reunion. "I can’t be the one spoiling everything, but it’s going to be good. We can’t wait to meet our fans."
Lisa Manoban, another member of BLACKPINK, also made a statement in a Louis Vuitton ensemble that showcased her unique style. At 28, Lisa donned a black bodysuit with long sleeves, transparent stockings, and a pearl- and gold-adorned jacket that highlighted her bold fashion sense. Meanwhile, Rosé opted for a more understated yet elegant look, wearing an oversized black suit pant that complemented her natural blonde hair.
SEVENTEEN's S.Coups, making his Met Gala debut, embraced the evening's theme with a look inspired by South Korea's traditional hanbok. As a global ambassador for BOSS, he wore a light grey satin-finish top layered under a structured vest, combining modern flair with cultural homage. His silver-grey hair added a whimsical touch that perfectly suited the event's atmosphere.
The Met Gala, officially known as the Costume Institute Benefit, serves as a major fundraising event for the museum's Costume Institute and marks the grand opening of its new fashion exhibition. This year's exhibition will be open to the public from May 10 through October 26, 2025, featuring over 200 items that explore the significance of Black style in the Atlantic diaspora.
The theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" delves into the historical and contemporary significance of Black dandyism, a tradition where fashion serves as a powerful form of self-expression and resistance. The exhibition, curated by Monica L. Miller, draws from her influential book "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity." It highlights how Black dandyism has shaped identity and creativity throughout history.
Guests were encouraged to interpret the dress code "Tailored for You," which allowed for a diverse range of interpretations of tailoring and menswear. The gala's co-chairs included notable figures such as Anna Wintour, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, and A$AP Rocky, with LeBron James serving as an honorary chair.
In addition to BLACKPINK and SEVENTEEN, the event attracted numerous other celebrities, including Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who made history as the first Indian male actor to walk the Met Gala red carpet. Dressed in an all-black Sabyasachi suit, Khan carried a tiger sceptre, exuding modern Maharaja vibes, while a 'K' necklace playfully acknowledged his title as "King Khan."
Priyanka Chopra Jonas also graced the event, attending with her husband Nick Jonas in a tailored polka dot suit by Balmain, which perfectly aligned with the gala's theme. Kiara Advani showcased a custom creation by Gaurav Gupta, featuring a dramatic double-panelled cape that honored the late André Leon Talley, a legendary fashion editor and advocate for Black representation in fashion.
Isha Ambani turned heads in a geometric corset and black tailored pants designed by Anamika Khanna, while Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh embraced his heritage with a Maharaja-inspired outfit by Prabal Gurung, complete with traditional accessories.
The venue itself was transformed into a breathtaking display of blue decor, with daffodils scattered across the blue carpet, symbolizing their deep-rooted connection to dandyism and queer culture. The gala's atmosphere was further enhanced by performances, including a rendition of "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough" that kicked off the evening.
As the night unfolded, the Met Gala 2025 not only celebrated fashion but also served as a platform for discussing the importance of representation and identity in the world of style. The event's focus on Black dandyism reflects a broader cultural conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fashion industry.
With its star-studded guest list and groundbreaking theme, the Met Gala 2025 will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in the celebration of Black culture and its impact on fashion.
