The 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcased a vibrant celebration of Black culture and style under the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." This year’s gala highlighted the rich history of Black dandyism and the contemporary expressions of Black tailoring, with pinstripes emerging as one of the standout trends on the red carpet.
Teyana Taylor, a prominent figure in the evening's festivities, made a bold statement with her dramatic outfit designed by Marc Jacobs in collaboration with two-time Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter. Taylor’s ensemble featured a striking black and red pinstriped suit, complemented by an elaborate crimson silk cape and adorned with multiple silver chains. Under her feathered hat, she wore a matching durag, paying homage to the cultural significance of these elements in Black fashion.
Reflecting on her look, Taylor expressed her connection to her 2018 song "Rose in Harlem," stating, "When The Met is Teyana Taylor’d to you, it’s the moment we were waiting on." She emphasized her preference for tailored looks, saying, "I’m already not a big dress girl," showcasing her comfort and confidence in menswear-inspired styles. Ruth E. Carter, who has been a pivotal force in bringing Black narratives to the forefront of fashion and film, noted the importance of expressing cultural identity through clothing, saying, "A lot of times the only thing you had was to show it on your body."
The Met Gala’s theme this year was not just a celebration of aesthetics but also a deep dive into the heritage of Black tailoring. The Costume Institute’s exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," explored how traditional elements like pinstripes can be reimagined to reflect both heritage and modern creativity. Pinstripes, historically associated with Black dandyism and jazz-era zoot suits, were prominently featured in various attendees' outfits, underscoring their significance in contemporary fashion.
Other notable attendees who embraced the pinstripe trend included Alicia Keys and her husband Swizz Beatz, who coordinated their looks in Moncler by Edward Enninful. Emma Chamberlain graced the carpet in a custom Courrèges black pinstriped gown, characterized by an off-the-shoulder design and dramatic train, while Zuri Hall showcased an avant-garde pinstriped outfit by Bishme Cromartie, complete with a deconstructed blazer-style top.
Savannah James, wife of NBA star LeBron James, wore a stunning custom dress by Hanifa, adding to the evening’s celebration of tailored elegance. Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter opted for a tailored bodysuit by Louis Vuitton, demonstrating the versatility of modern tailoring. Patrick Schwarzenegger also made an appearance in a custom Balmain suit, further emphasizing the theme of tailored sophistication.
The gala was co-chaired by a diverse group of influential figures, including Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, who collectively aimed to highlight the significance of Black style in the fashion industry.
As the night progressed, the red carpet became a canvas for personal expression and cultural storytelling, with each outfit reflecting a unique narrative. The celebration of Black culture through fashion was palpable, with attendees showcasing a blend of traditional elements and contemporary flair.
The Met Gala continues to be a platform for change and representation in the fashion world, and this year’s theme resonated deeply with many attendees and viewers alike. The emphasis on Black tailoring and dandyism not only honored the past but also paved the way for future generations to embrace their cultural heritage through style.
In a world where fashion often intersects with social commentary, the 2025 Met Gala stood as a testament to the power of clothing as a form of self-expression and identity. As Teyana Taylor and others took to the red carpet, they did so with a sense of pride and purpose, reminding everyone that fashion is not just about what you wear, but also about the stories you tell.
With the success of this year’s event, the Met Gala continues to be a significant cultural moment, reflecting the evolving landscape of fashion and the importance of inclusivity and representation.
