New York City—As the clock neared 10 p.m., the atmosphere shifted at the 2025 Met Gala as Rihanna made a striking entrance. Dressed in a chic Marc Jacobs skirt-suit that highlighted her baby bump and bare legs, the pop star turned fashion mogul added her flair to a night that showcased both glitz and resilience, even amid drizzly weather. Celebrities from diverse backgrounds came together at the event, celebrating not just fashion, but cultural significance as well.
Parading down the blue carpet alongside Rihanna were icons like Madonna, Stevie Wonder, and André 3000, the latter opting for a playful twist by donning a piano-shaped backpack. The event honored the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute exhibit “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which celebrates the innovation and craftsmanship of designers of color. The exhibition also marks a significant milestone as the first in two decades to focus exclusively on men’s fashion.
Host Anna Wintour, the editor in chief of Vogue, shared the spotlight with notable co-chairs including ASAP Rocky, Lewis Hamilton, Colman Domingo, and Pharrell Williams. LeBron James, who was due to be an honorary chair, announced his absence due to a knee injury, although his wife, Savannah, was present to represent the couple.
The theme of the gala opened the door for unique interpretations. With the focus on tailoring and men’s design, attendees took creative liberties, showcasing an impressive array of fashion. Guests had the opportunity to vote for and share their favorite looks, which further added to the night’s interactive experience.
Among the standout ensembles was Zendaya, who dazzled in Louis Vuitton, while other stars such as Cardi B and Janelle Monáe also made bold statements with their outfits. Pharrell Williams captured attention in striking Louis Vuitton gear, complemented by the presence of figures like Kim Kardashian and Doja Cat, who each presented their personal interpretations of haute couture.
In a notable reflection of the theme, many attendees chose to honor Black designers, signaling a shift toward inclusiveness in an industry that has often been critiqued for its lack of diversity. Designers like Thom Browne, Givenchy, and Balenciaga adorned several red-carpet appearances, showcasing both traditional techniques and modern flair.
This year’s Met Gala not only exhibited exceptional fashion but also fostered conversations around representation and the significance of diverse cultural narratives within the art of tailoring. As the evening wound down, one thing was clear: the Met Gala continues to serve as a touching point for creativity, culture, and community—a heartbeat of the fashion world that resonates far beyond the blue carpet.