Met Gala 2025
Another Met Gala is in the books and we have so much to discuss. This year’s exhibit, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, was a fascinating take on fashion as a form of self-expression and resistance. The dress code, “Tailored For You”, was inspired by Black dandyism, which I discussed in an article directly after the announcement. The event gathered a crowd of A-list celebrities to celebrate Black style and creativity, and raise $31 million for the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Honestly, I believe that the theme this year was slightly too predictable, leaving little room for the shock factor that some themes have allowed. However, I cannot say that I am upset, and I will tell you why. Let’s dive in, shall we? Best dressed, worst dressed, and the gloriously controversial middle ground.
Best Dressed
Laura Harrier’s ensemble, by Zac Posen in collaboration with Gap, was truly tailor-made with a subversive and rebellious tone. Posen prepared for this moment for his entire career, pushing the boundaries of self-expression through his collections. Harrier wore a white look with a gorgeous oversized trouser and vest top, perfectly juxtaposing materials, dimensions, and sizes to create the illusion of grandeur on the body. You can tell that the look took modern dandyism into account, drawing on Posen’s individual style.
Lewis Hamilton, one of the Gala’s hosts, was styled in a custom Wales Bonner suit, creating an image of the ideal modern dandy. This look had everything from coattails and a tuxedo stripe, to an ivory sash and beret. In a Vogue article, designer Grace Wales Bonner mentioned that she had drawn inspiration for the look from one of Hamilton’s biggest inspirations, Cab Calloway. During the Harlem Renaissance, he dressed confidently, often styling a suit with mother of pearl adornments, and setting himself up loudly as a style icon (Vogue). Hamilton turned heads in this look, with a smile that brought it all together.
As a co-chair, Colman Domingo wore a dual Valentino ensemble featuring a deep blue cape reminiscent of André Leon Talley’s iconic 2011 Met Gala look – which I will discuss more later. Beneath the cape, he revealed a gray, black, and white suit with contrasting textures and an oversized flower on the lapel.
Zoe Saldaña delivered one of the most talked about looks at the event this year. Saldaña wore a custom black-and-white gown by Thom Browne that took over 10,000 hours to create. The ensemble featured a sculptural, backless black corset bodice paired with a floor-length white skirt adorned with 2.7 million white bugle beads. Browne delivered a classic silhouette and displayed what craftsmanship means in fashion. Her micro bob cut was also inspired by 1920s dandy fashion and perfectly aligned with the evening's theme.
One of the best to ever do it. We know her. We love her. Zendaya. Styled by Law Roach, Zendaya donned a custom Louis Vuitton ivory zoot suit, paying homage to Diana Ross’s 1975 film Mahogany. The look was a sophisticated nod to the theme. I need not say much.
Jodie Turner-Smith delivered one of the most powerful looks of the 2025 Met Gala in a burgundy leather Burberry ensemble inspired by 19th-century equestrian Selika Lazevski, complete with a bustle coat, embossed floral detailing, and a matching top hat.
Khaby Lame made a memorable debut at the 2025 Met Gala with a custom gray pinstripe three-piece suit by BOSS, styled by Ugo Mozie. The standout feature of his ensemble was a waistcoat adorned with over 20 vintage pocket watches as a tribute to the origins of his career, and of course, the drama of dandyism.
It turns out money can buy style; at least for the Murdochs. Wendi Murdoch and her daughter Grace made a striking appearance in coordinating looks by Thom Browne. Their sophisticated looks were celebrated as some of the best-dressed of the evening, aligning seamlessly with the gala's theme
Lauryn Hill did not come to play! I mean…. the sculptural shoulders, the dramatic high collar, and the sweeping cape, complemented by a burgundy tie, amber pendant, and a cerulean blue Hermès Kelly bag. Perhaps the most coveted bag in all of fashion history! Hill's accessories included gold jewelry by Ghanaian designer Emefa Cole, paying homage to Ghanaian royalty, and a gold-encrusted fan that added a regal touch to her look. She is back and better than ever.
Gigi Hadid’s tribute look to Jospehine Baker is one of my favorite Miu Miu looks of all time. While it was not a typical approach, I believe that it embraces the daring craftsmanship and grandeur that we needed.
Ok I am almost done and perfectly on time for my final pick of the night, Rhianna. She made the most memorable appearance in a custom Marc Jacobs look that not only epitomized the theme but also served as the platform to announce her third pregnancy.
Honorable mentions go to Joey King and Jennie Kim. Joey’s look was an eclectic custom Miu Miu suit, which I loved. I have seen Jennie Kim on every single “best dressed” list for this Chanel reimagined tuxedo tribute. It is straight out of Breakfast at Tiffany’s,and the long train is impeccable. How could I not put this on my list too?
Worst Dressed
I will keep this short and sweet. Mostly short.
Did Sydney Sweeney look drop dead gorgeous? Yes. Was she on theme? No. Next.
Lisa Manoban, also from BLACKPINK, wore a Louis Vuitton bodysuit that sparked controversy due to embroidered faces that some mistook for Rosa Parks. The brand clarified the images were of artist Henry Taylor's acquaintances, but the confusion took far too much time.
Chappel Roan’s look was too glittery, 80’s disco-glam for my liking.
I hate to say it, but Hailey Bieber bored me. The blazer dress is EVERYTHING for me, but it just was not enough for such an incredible event.
André Leon Talley
The spirit of André Leon Talley, shadowed over the event in stature, vision, and influence. As a pioneering Black fashion editor and longtime creative force at Vogue, Talley is still remembered for elegance, theatricality, and the importance of Black presence in high fashion. His bold style, unique eye, and thunderous presence reshaped the fashion landscape. Though the gala’s theme aligned with his lifelong mission, I still feel a deeper homage was overdue. I cannot help but think that Vogue itself did not make the ALT influence loud enough, commodifying a man who was once ostracized. Still, his legacy lives on in every dramatic train and sculpted silhouette. Thank you ALT.
Xoxo,
Annie
