Menswear reigned supreme as celebrities embraced the “superfine: Tailoring Black Style” theme with dramatic suits, feathered gowns, and heritage nods
Fashion royalty descended upon New York on Monday night for the 2025 Met Gala, embracing a historic return to menswear with the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Drawing inspiration from the black dandy tradition and its cultural resonance across the Atlantic diaspora, the event honoured precision, elegance, and identity—all stitched into statement-making ensembles that redefined glamour.
A$AP Rocky, one of the event’s co-chairs, led with authenticity, designing his own Harlem-inspired outfit, grounded with Christian Louboutin footwear. By his side was Rihanna, debuting her third pregnancy in a custom Marc Jacobs look, reaffirming her reign as queen of the carpet.
Demi Moore, no stranger to method dressing, took a literal turn by transforming into a human necktie in a sculpted black-and-white striped gown by Thom Browne. Meanwhile, Diana Ross, in her first Met Gala appearance since 2003, floated down the carpet with a long, feathered white train embroidered with her children’s names—a tribute to legacy and elegance.
Sir Lewis Hamilton brought tailored sophistication in a cream suit by Grace Wales Bonner, while Bad Bunny repped his Puerto Rican roots in a brown Prada ensemble adorned with cultural details. Barry Keoghan added flair in floral-embroidered custom Valentino, and Zendaya, typically known for show-stopping gowns, kept it muted yet sharp in a monochrome cream Louis Vuitton suit—offset only by crimson nails.
The night wasn’t without theatrical flair. Andre 3000, ever the fashion renegade, strapped a piano to his back and carried a trash bag for a purse in a self-designed Burberry outfit. Doja Cat channelled power in exaggerated shoulder pads and a leopard bustier, while Cardi B turned heads in an ivy green Burberry suit and emerald-toned beauty accessories.
Sydney Sweeney, wearing custom Miu Miu, gave a cinematic nod to Kim Novak with beaded fringe and metallic detailing. Her look precedes her portrayal of Novak in the upcoming film Scandalous. Fellow actress Lupita Nyong’o shimmered in powder blue Chanel, complete with rhinestone brows and a transparent cape, striking a balance between softness and strength.
Elsewhere, Coco Jones showcased South Asian couture in an intricately embroidered look by Manish Malhotra, and Janelle Monáe reclaimed power and comfort in a Thom Browne suit, simply declaring she felt “free”—a theme that echoed throughout the evening.
Teyana Taylor, walking with costume legend Ruth E. Carter, wore “Harlem Rose” proudly on her cape, a lyrical homage to her roots. Colman Domingo delivered two outfits in one—starting with a royal blue Valentino cloak in honour of André Leon Talley, then unveiling a brooch-adorned suit underneath.
Social media sensation Emma Chamberlain debuted a pixie cut and sharp tailoring in Courrèges, while Madonna, ever the chameleon, balanced masculinity and femininity in a cream tux and cigar.
Other memorable attendees included Sabrina Carpenter, advised by Pharrell Williams to go pantless in her bold Louis Vuitton piece, Tracee Ellis Ross in a pink Marc Jacobs suit and oversized bow, and Doechii, whose Louis Vuitton look had logos stamped boldly onto her face and garments. Cynthia Erivo, dressed in Givenchy, dazzled in sequins and thigh-high boots—true to her Wicked roots.
From cape reveals to cultural references, the 2025 Met Gala wasn’t just a display of high fashion—it was a masterclass in identity, storytelling, and sartorial prowess. Underneath the feathers, brooches, and bespoke suits was a celebration of Black style and legacy, woven tightly into each look.
