The Met Gala 2025, held at the iconic MET in New York, delivered a night of stunning fashion and unexpected moments, all under the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." This year's gala aimed to honor the contributions of African culture to humanity, particularly in the realm of fashion.
As the event kicked off, celebrities from various industries showcased their interpretations of the theme, with some hitting the mark while others strayed off course. Among the highlights was Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, who co-hosted the gala alongside A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour.
Hamilton made a bold statement in a beautifully tailored ivory suit, complemented by a buttoned silk shirt fastened at the neck with a bow. His outfit was accessorized with an art deco brooch adorned with gold, diamonds, rubies, and pearls, replicating these embellishments in the pearl curtains on the sides of his trousers. The look was completed with a plain white beret by Stephen Jones Millinery and vintage 1980s jewelry by Briony Raymond, which included a baobab brooch, diamond earrings, and gemstone rings. Each detail was selected to reflect elements of mystical African culture and heritage.
"For Lewis's look, we brought together a number of influences, from the paintings of Barkley L. Hendricks to black spiritual dress and some of the brand's signature craftsmanship," the designer explained to Vogue. Hamilton himself noted that his outfit was a tribute to the elegance and confidence of black dandyism, while his stylist, Eric McNeal, emphasized that every detail was a reflection of a story of pride and resilience.
However, not all attendees adhered to the theme as closely as Hamilton. Sadie Sink, known for her role in Stranger Things, wore a custom Prada gown featuring sheer lace and a dramatic train. While striking, her ensemble was considered off-theme, as the focus was not solely on color but rather on the exploration of Black style through tailoring.
Sydney Sweeney, who cited Kim Novak as her muse, faced criticism for her choice, which some deemed inappropriate for an event celebrating Black sartorial heritage. Her curls were a nod to the theme, but the rest of her Miu Miu ensemble fell short of expectations.
Shakira, in a voluminous pink gown by Prabal Gurung, also missed the mark, appearing as if she had arrived from a different event altogether. Similarly, Maya Hawke's elegant Prada look lacked the sharp tailoring and storytelling that this year's theme demanded.
Nicole Kidman wore a Balenciaga piece reminiscent of a 1950s Cristóbal Balenciaga silhouette, yet it failed to incorporate any elements of Black style influence. Heidi Klum, returning to the Met Gala after 12 years, opted for a simple Vetements little black dress, which felt underwhelming for such a prestigious event.
Hailey Bieber's choice of a Saint Laurent blazer and mini skirt was considered too simplistic, resembling more of a CEO's outfit than a gala look. Anne Hathaway attempted to pay homage to the late André Leon Talley and Carolina Herrera's signature white shirt, but her tribute raised questions about whether it was a corporate nod or a genuine cultural statement.
Amidst these fashion misses, a notable moment unfolded on the blue carpet involving Law Roach, the stylist behind Zendaya's iconic looks. As he was being interviewed, he spotted Anna Sawai, the breakout star of "Shōgun" and a Dior ambassador, wearing a strikingly similar outfit to Zendaya's. Both women donned wide-brim hats and sleek white suits, leading Roach to express his surprise. "I am dying coz she got on Zendaya's look," he remarked to Hello Beautiful, capturing the moment's drama.
The similarity between Zendaya's Louis Vuitton ensemble and Sawai's Dior outfit sparked discussions online, with fans reacting to Roach's shocked expression. This wasn't a case of "Who wore it better?" as both women brought their unique flair to the same style. Zendaya's outfit featured hair tucked under her hat, a hidden tie within a structured vest, and dramatic bell-bottom trousers, complemented by a blood-red manicure and her engagement ring from Tom Holland.
Sawai, on the other hand, let her hair down, accessorizing with a silver tie clip and a glove, while her Dior jacket's pronounced pocket detailing added a modern twist to her look. In an interview with Vogue, Sawai expressed her love for suits, stating, "This is what I'd wear in my regular life if I was going out." She also shared her excitement about channeling her androgynous side at the gala, emphasizing her desire to pay respect to Black dandyism.
As the night progressed, the Met Gala continued to deliver memorable moments, from fashion triumphs to unexpected surprises. While some celebrities strayed from the theme, others embraced it wholeheartedly, showcasing the diverse interpretations of Black style and its rich cultural heritage.
In the end, the Met Gala 2025 was more than just a showcase of fashion; it was a celebration of identity, culture, and the ongoing dialogue about representation in the fashion industry. As the stars walked the blue carpet, they reminded us that style is not just about what you wear, but also about the stories you tell through your choices.
