NEW YORK (AP) — The 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, turned into a star-studded evening of fashion and celebration, especially for Rihanna and A$AP Rocky, who announced they are expecting their third child. Rihanna made a stunning entrance in a pinstripe look that showcased her baby bump, a piece designed by Marc Jacobs that featured tied sleeves of a men’s suit, creating a bustle effect behind her. As the last celebrity to walk the carpet, she captured the attention of the crowd, her hair styled in a long mermaid twist.
This year’s theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," was a celebration of Black dandyism, and it was reflected in the evening’s fashion choices. The gala raised an impressive $31 million before the event began, a record amount that underscores the event's significance in the fashion world. Co-chairs for the evening included A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, actor Colman Domingo, Formula 1 racer Lewis Hamilton, and Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour.
Rihanna’s partner, A$AP Rocky, confirmed the exciting news about their growing family shortly after the gala. He expressed his joy, stating, "It feels amazing, you know. It’s time that we show the people what we was cooking up. And I’m glad everybody’s happy for us ’cause we definitely happy, you know." He added, "Honestly, it’s a blessing nonetheless. Because you know how like some people in other situations at times can be envious of other people. But we’ve been seeing love for the most part. And we real receptive to that and appreciate that, you know what I mean? That’s love. Love is love."
Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal was not the only highlight of the night. The Met Gala showcased a variety of interpretations of the menswear theme, with many female attendees opting for traditional men’s tailoring. Celebrities like Emma Chamberlain, Zendaya, and Janelle Monáe embraced the theme with their own stylish takes on menswear. Chamberlain and Zuri Hall dazzled in sleek gowns that incorporated men’s suiting elements, while Zendaya sported a perfectly tailored white trouser suit paired with a wide-brim hat from Louis Vuitton.
Janelle Monáe epitomized the theme in exaggerated pinstripes designed by Thom Browne, while Lauryn Hill paid homage to menswear in a butter yellow suit that radiated a sense of Black empowerment. Alicia Keys and her husband, Swizz Beatz, also leaned heavily into the pinstripe theme, with Alicia showcasing a head of bejeweled braids. Doja Cat made a bold statement in a Marc Jacobs bodysuit adorned with orange and black wildcat detailing, complemented by broad-shouldered pinstripes.
Among the men, A$AP Rocky’s custom suit designed by his creative agency, AWGE, stood out. He wore a black parka and a diamond-crested umbrella, making a statement about creativity and individuality. His look was a direct response to Anna Wintour’s suggestion to wear a Black designer. Meanwhile, Colman Domingo, who co-hosted the evening, wore a pleated gold-adorned cape over a gray and black suit, evoking the late André Leon Talley, a fashion icon known for his contributions to the industry.
Lewis Hamilton donned an ivory tuxedo with a cropped jacket, embellished with cowrie shells, a design choice that carried deep cultural significance. He explained on Instagram that the color ivory symbolizes purity and status, while cowries represent wealth and heritage. Claire Stern, Elle’s digital director, noted Hamilton’s commitment to championing Black designers and celebrating heritage on such a prominent platform.
Other notable looks included Pharrell Williams in a double-breasted beaded evening jacket, and Walton Goggins, who turned heads with a deconstructed suit featuring exposed seams and a pleated skirt. LeBron James, although unable to attend due to a knee injury, was honored as the evening’s honorary chair.
The women’s fashion was equally impressive, with Megan Thee Stallion in a Michael Kors gown featuring a high side slit and floral lace embellishments, while Dua Lipa channeled an elevated flapper look in feathers. Miley Cyrus showcased her femininity in a custom black crocodile jacket paired with a long black taffeta skirt designed by Alaïa.
Other standout moments included Diana Ross making a grand entrance in a voluminous white train, and Lizzo debuting her new blonde hair in a pink and black Christian Siriano gown that struggled to allow her to walk comfortably. Cardi B also made a statement in a low-cut Burberry pantsuit, complete with a new hairstyle and eye color that matched her ivy-colored look.
In a night filled with standout fashion moments, the Met Gala successfully merged high fashion with cultural significance, showcasing the creativity and style of Black designers and artists. As the event concluded, the world was left not just with stunning images of fashion but also with the joyful news of Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s expanding family, marking another chapter in their love story.
For full coverage of the Met Gala, visit: AP News.
