The first Monday of May is one of the most important days of the year in the fashion world. The 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, took a meaningful turn this year with the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Instead of focusing on shock-factor fashion or over-the-top couture, this year’s event honored the legacy, creativity, and cultural influence of Black fashion; specifically through the art of tailoring.
The theme was inspired by Slaves to Fashion, a 2009 book by scholar Monica L. Miller which explores Black dandyism and how Black individuals have used clothing as a tool for self-expression, resistance, and identity throughout history. The accompanying Costume Institute exhibition broke this down into 12 powerful sections with names like “Freedom,” “Presence,” “Beauty,” and “Heritage,” showcasing how style has always been deeper than the look itself.
The dress code, “Tailored for You,” invited guests to explore the idea of menswear and suiting in a personal, expressive way. It marked the first time in over two decades that the Met Gala centered on menswear; and it showed. Red carpet looks leaned into sharp silhouettes, rich textures, and bold reinterpretations of traditional tailoring.
This year’s co-chairs reflected the theme perfectly: Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and, of course, longtime chair and fashion marvel Anna Wintour. They were joined by honorary co-chair LeBron James. Together, they led an event that didn’t just celebrate fashion but the people, culture, and history surrounding it.
A carefully curated host committee brought even more depth, featuring names like André 3000, Janelle Monáe, Dapper Dan, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ayo Edebiri, Usher, Sha’Carri Richardson, and Tyla. Each brought their own perspective to the night, adding to the gala’s mission to spotlight Black excellence in every form.
As always, the fashion didn’t disappoint. Halle Berry arrived in a sheer LaQuan Smith gown paired with a cropped blazer, combining elegance with edge. Lizzo made her return in a dramatic corseted look by Christian Siriano, while Heidi Klum, attending for the first time in over a decade, chose a minimalist black dress by Vetements that still made a statement. Kendall Jenner was outfitted in a suit created by British designer Torishéju Dumi, the set inspired by 1920’s Harlem Renaissance figures. Many other stars like Rihanna, Emma Chamberlain, Anok Yai, and Gigi Hadid captured the theme and the story behind it perfectly, making for an incredibly successful showing on the red carpet this year.
What set the 2025 Met Gala apart wasn’t just the fashion, it was the purpose behind it. This year, the event reminded everyone that clothing isn’t just about style. It’s about history, identity, and the stories we choose to tell with what we wear.