Best Dressed at the Met Gala 2025: The Most Iconic Looks of the Night

The Met Gala 2025 unfolded on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, celebrating the Costume Institute's exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style." The dress code, aptly named "Tailored for You," paid homage to Black dandyism and the art of suiting, encouraging attendees to explore the rich history and contemporary expressions of Black sartorial elegance.

A Night of Tailored Elegance

This year's theme marked a return to menswear-centric fashion, the first since 2003, spotlighting the significance of tailoring in Black culture. Celebrities embraced the theme with a blend of reverence and innovation, resulting in a red carpet replete with sharp silhouettes, bold statements, and intricate detailing.

Standout Looks That Captivated Us

1. Lewis Hamilton in Wales Bonner

As a co-chair of the event, Lewis Hamilton embodied the theme impeccably. Dressed in a custom Wales Bonner ensemble, Hamilton's look featured a classic black suit with subtle embellishments, complemented by a wide-brimmed hat and layered jewelry, exuding sophistication and cultural pride.

2. Zendaya in Maison Margiela

Zendaya, a perennial fashion favorite, stunned in a Maison Margiela creation. Her ensemble combined structured tailoring with avant-garde elements, including exaggerated shoulders and a cinched waist, all rendered in a deep navy hue that paid homage to traditional suiting while pushing stylistic boundaries.

3. Colman Domingo in Thom Browne

Actor Colman Domingo turned heads in a Thom Browne suit that reimagined classic tailoring. The ensemble featured a cropped jacket and high-waisted trousers, both adorned with intricate embroidery that celebrated Black artistry. Domingo's look was both a nod to tradition and a statement of contemporary elegance.

4. Halle Bailey in Coach

New mother Halle Bailey embraced the theme with a Coach outfit that blended femininity and structure. Her tailored blazer, paired with a flowing skirt, was accentuated by Zales lab-grown diamonds, reflecting her personal style evolution since motherhood.

5. Janelle Monáe in Thom Browne

Known for her fashion-forward choices, Janelle Monáe did not disappoint. Her Thom Browne ensemble featured a tailored jacket with dramatic coattails, paired with a top hat and cane, channeling the essence of Black dandyism with a modern twist.

6. Cardi B in Gaurav Gupta

Cardi B never fails to deliver drama on the red carpet—and Met Gala 2025 was no exception. Dressed in a jaw-dropping custom Gaurav Gupta piece, Cardi was the embodiment of sculptural glamour. Her look featured cascading folds of deep plum velvet, moulded around her curves like wearable art. The ensemble, inspired by the elegance of old-school tailoring with a futuristic twist, was accessorised with a dramatic train and dazzling diamond earrings. Cardi brought both elegance and edge, cementing her status as a Met Gala favourite.

7. Rihanna in Fenty x Balenciaga

After skipping last year’s event, Rihanna made a highly anticipated return—and she did not disappoint. The beauty mogul and fashion trailblazer wore a custom Fenty x Balenciaga ensemble that effortlessly fused high fashion and personal flair. Her look combined a deconstructed tuxedo jacket with an exaggerated peplum and layered tulle skirt, all in a rich oxblood red. Topped off with a structured hat and sheer veil, Rihanna’s look paid homage to the roots of dandyism while giving it a fierce, modern update. The crowd was literally stunned.

8. Priyanka Chopra in Elie Saab Couture

Priyanka Chopra brought regality and refinement to the carpet in a bespoke Elie Saab creation that shimmered with subtle power. Her deep emerald suit-dress hybrid featured intricate beadwork inspired by Indian embroidery traditions, and was paired with a satin sash and a sleek chignon. It was a nod to both her heritage and the Black tailoring theme—global influence meets timeless elegance. The dramatic sleeves and floor-length cape elevated her look into a full Met Gala moment.

9. Nicki Minaj in Mugler

Nicki Minaj made a bold statement in a custom Mugler bodysuit that blended structure, sparkle, and sheer fabric. The look featured a corseted bodice with exaggerated shoulders, crystal-studded lapels, and mesh trousers with suiting details. It was futuristic, feminine, and wildly fearless—everything we love about Nicki. Her slick bob and fierce cat-eye makeup completed the daring look, landing her on nearly every “Best Dressed” list of the night.

💬 Public Reactions and Cultural Conversations

The Met Gala 2025 sparked widespread discussion, not only for its fashion but also for its cultural significance. The theme's focus on Black tailoring traditions brought attention to the historical and contemporary contributions of Black designers and style icons.

However, the event was not without controversy. K-pop star Lisa of Blackpink faced criticism for wearing Louis Vuitton panties that appeared to feature an image resembling Rosa Parks. While the brand clarified that the image depicted a friend of the designer, the resemblance raised questions about cultural sensitivity and the importance of context in fashion choices.

Thematic Interpretations and Fashion Narratives

The "Tailored for You" dress code invited a myriad of interpretations, with celebrities exploring the theme through various lenses:

Historical Homage: Many attendees paid tribute to the roots of Black dandyism, incorporating vintage-inspired tailoring and accessories that echoed the elegance of past eras.

Modern Minimalism: Some opted for sleek, contemporary designs that emphasized clean lines and subtle details, reflecting the evolution of tailoring in modern fashion.

Gender Fluidity: The theme also opened avenues for exploring non-binary fashion expressions, with several guests challenging traditional gender norms through their sartorial choices.

Capturing the Moments

Photographer Denise Stephanie Hewitt, the youngest ever commissioned photographer for the Met Gala, documented the event's behind-the-scenes moments. Her lens captured the intimate preparations and candid interactions that defined the evening, providing a unique perspective on the grandeur of the gala.

The Met Gala 2025 was more than a fashion event; it was a celebration of identity, heritage, and the transformative power of style. Through tailored expressions and thoughtful interpretations, attendees honored the rich tapestry of Black fashion history while paving the way for future narratives.