Met Gala 2025: Celebrating Black Dandyism Through Fashion

 Met Gala 2025 took place at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, with the theme Superfine: Tailoring Black Style setting the tone for a night that celebrated Black culture, creativity, and sartorial excellence. The event, as always, drew an elite crowd of celebrities, each expected to make a statement both in fashion and in their interpretation of the theme.

The moment Ain’t No Mountain High Enough swept through the halls of The Met, it was evident that the 2025 Met Gala had transcended its role as fashion’s grandest night.

The first to grace the blue carpet were the evening’s hosts — setting the tone with quiet authority and unmistakable style. Pharrell Williams, Louis Vuitton’s men’s creative director, arrived in a pearl-studded jacket that spoke not only to craftsmanship, but to cultural confidence. In a subtle yet striking alignment, the same design adorned none other than Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour—an elegant nod to shared vision and sartorial intent.

The red carpet soon turned into a constellation of brilliance. One by one, guests arrived in masterfully curated ensembles that captured the essence of this year’s theme — Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. Inspired by the elegance of jazz, the legacy of Black dandyism, and the creative force of iconic Black artists, the looks embodied freedom, refinement, and fearless self-expression.

In Prada, Bad Bunny delivered a quiet yet poignant statement. His tailored silhouette paid homage to Puerto Rico, merging personal identity with the evening’s larger celebration of cultural depth.

Jennie of Blackpink arrived in Chanel, reaffirming her role as a modern muse of the house. Dressed in a black ensemble that balanced elegance with quiet edge, she embodied the spirit of a true dandy.

Sydney Sweeney dazzled in a striking black gown by Miu Miu, channeling the magnetic allure of old Hollywood. Her look, inspired by screen legend Kim Novak, was a study in cinematic glamour.

Miley Cyrus attended the Met Gala in a custom Alaïa design, paired with Cartier jewelry. Created by Pieter Mulier, the look combined architectural lines, distinct textures, and subtle futuristic references, it was a clear reflection of the evening’s focus on modern dandyism.

Sabrina Carpenter arrived in a deep burgundy Louis Vuitton look, designed under Pharrell Williams’ direction. The ensemble made an immediate impression — styled without trousers or a skirt, it embraced both playfulness and precision. In a red carpet interview, Sabrina joked that the choice was Pharrell’s idea: “He told me, ‘You’re pretty short, let’s skip the pants!’” Instead, the look was anchored by towering heels, also selected by Pharrell, turning a practical adjustment into a bold styling decision.

Doechii appeared in Louis Vuitton, with a look inspired by Julius, a character from Monica Miller’s book. The reference added a thoughtful layer to the styling, aligning with the evening’s focus on cultural context and Black dandyism.

Rapper and 2025 Met Gala co-chair A$AP Rocky appeared in a fully self-designed look. The outfit reflected his ongoing interest in fashion as personal authorship—combining tailoring with distinctive styling choices that aligned with the evening’s exploration of identity and form.

 Anne Hathaway opted for a classic silhouette in black and white Carolina Herrera. The look was a direct tribute to André Leon Talley, drawing on his signature palette and commanding elegance.

Lewis Hamilton marked his milestone Met Gala appearance in a look inspired by the refined legacy of Harlem. Designed by Grace Wales Bonner, the ensemble referenced the black-and-white portraiture of Barkley Hendricks.

Rihanna arrived at the Met Gala in a custom white gown by Marc Jacobs, designed to frame and celebrate her pregnancy. The look featured a structured bodice, sculptural shoulder details, and a sweeping train. Finished with matching gloves and pared-back accessories, it was a considered continuation of her long-standing rapport with Jacobs and her instinctive command of red carpet presence.

Doja Cat attended fashion's biggest event with Marc Jacobs. The designer crafted a look that reflected her desire to embody elegance, using structured tailoring and striking details to create a powerful, refined silhouette.

Lana Del Rey's appearance at the Met Gala was met with a wave of admiration. She wore a Valentino gown, designed by the brand’s new creative director, Alessandro Michele. The dress seamlessly fused Valentino's timeless elegance with Michele’s bold, contemporary vision, making for an unforgettable red carpet moment.

Gigi Hadid dazzled in a gold gown by Miu Miu, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1940s Black designer Zelda Wynn Valdes. 

Diana Ross, returning to the Met Gala for the first time since 2003, almost consumed the staircase of The Metropolitan Museum with her gown. The white, cloud-like design was embellished with the names of her children and grandchildren.

Megan Thee Stallion wore a custom Michael Kors creation, presenting one of the evening’s most memorable looks.

Kim Kardashian donned a black leather outfit by Chrome Hearts, its texture reminiscent of alligator skin, with a daring cutout back. She accessorized with pieces from Moussaieff’s collection, adding a bold, luxurious touch to the look.

For the Met Gala, Kendall Jenner wore a creation by British designer Torishéju Dumi. The look, inspired by Harlem Renaissance musician Gladys Bentley, combined striking details with a refined homage to the cultural vibrancy of the era.

Kylie Jenner turned heads at the 2025 Met Gala in a custom Ferragamo design by Maximilian Davis. The ensemble featured a sheer corseted bodice and a gray tweed skirt with intricate beading, complemented by a thigh-high slit. The look was accessorized with a bejeweled rose brooch, diamond earrings, and opera gloves.

Lisa of Blackpink wore a custom Louis Vuitton design for the Met Gala, featuring a tailored black jacket with intricate embroidery, paired with a dramatic skirt that combined contemporary chic with a nod to vintage elegance. 

Oscar-nominated actress Zoe Saldaña turned heads at the 2025 Met Gala in a custom Thom Browne design, featuring a sculpted black plissé piqué bodice, white embroidered pinstripe sleeve, and a skirt adorned with over 2.7 million bugle beads.

Zendaya, as ever, nailed her look at the Met Gala. Styled by Law Roach, she wore a custom Louis Vuitton design that perfectly captured her signature style.

 Nicki Minaj appeared on the Met Gala carpet in a custom Thom Browne design.

Serena Williams opted for a standout light turquoise gown at the Met Gala, designed by Moncler, setting herself apart from the black-and-white designs seen on other guests.

 Lupita Nyong’o embraced turquoise at the Met Gala, wearing a stunning Chanel design on the red carpet.

Hailey Bieber attended the Met Gala solo, wearing a sleek short jacket-dress by Yves Saint Laurent.