The theme drew inspiration from a newly launched exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, showcasing the concept of the “black dandy.” As Vogue describes, this exhibit profoundly explores how clothing and style have shaped black identities across the Atlantic diaspora, illustrating the power of fashion as a medium for expression and identity. The Met Gala 2025: Dazzling Fashion, Fundraising, and Indian Fabulousness. 

An astonishing lineup of A-list celebrities graced the red carpet, each offering their unique flair to the theme. Stars like Zendaya, Kim Kardashian, and Diana Ross captivated onlookers in exquisitely tailored suits and stunning looks that harmonized tradition with modernity.

As the night unfolded, striking trends emerged: dramatic trains that flowed effortlessly behind the stars, refined accessories like cigars and sophisticated umbrellas, each outfit weaving a narrative that celebrated personal style alongside the rich heritage of black tailoring. The Met Gala 2025 – a Dash of Dandyism and the Richness of Indian Couture. 

The 2025 Met Gala was a spectacular tapestry of artistry, elegance, and cultural homage, an unforgettable tribute to style and identity.

Stunning Brooches Galore!

Lewis Hamilton brilliantly made a statement with a Briony Raymond brooch from the 1980s, adorned with white, yellow, and pink diamonds. Ayo Edebiri showcased a playful yet thoughtful flair with her Ferragamo outfit, complemented by a whimsical Cartier clip brooch shaped like a dog, crafted from 18-carat yellow gold, rubies, and enamel.

Head-Turning Hats!

The Met Gala celebrated Black dandyism, showcasing an array of fabulous suits, suit-adjacent gowns, and an impressive array of hats. Indeed, headwear was a highlight of the night, with many of the most eye-catching looks crowned with wide-brimmed hats or elegantly shaped berets.

Show-Stopping Bows and Glamour!

All eyes locked onto Sofia Richie as she graced the Met Gala 2025 red carpet Monday night. Following her much-discussed bridal evolution and remarkable maternity style, Richie, 26, effortlessly displayed her fashion prowess in a sleek, form-fitting white gown featuring a standout back cutout and a striking oversized bow.

Magnificent Monochrome!

At the 2025 Met Gala, monochrome looks, especially in black and white, took center stage, as many attendees embraced tailored suits and gowns in these timeless colors. While the gala’s theme centered on “Tailoring Black Style,” the monochrome palette invited both elegant interpretations and bold, avant-garde statements. Notably, some guests broke convention by opting for shorts, bodysuits, or even no bottoms, adding a daring twist to the evening’s fashion dialogue.

Kiss Curls Take Center Stage!

The 2025 Met Gala witnessed a resurgence of gelled hair curls, particularly across foreheads, elegantly referencing the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” theme and its ties to Black dandyism and 1920s flapper glam. Celebrities like Sydney Sweeney, Coco Jones, Dua Lipa and Ayo Edebiri embraced “kiss curls,” enhancing their looks by slicking the rest of their hair back into buns or braids, creating a striking contrast.

Daringly Dandy Suits!

The gala showcased an extraordinary display of exaggerated and theatrical suiting, with many attendees embracing bold colors, rich textures, and avant-garde silhouettes inspired by the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” theme. Celebrating Black dandyism, designers delivered an exquisite range of interpretations, from literal expressions of the theme to imaginative reimaginings.

With the 2025 gala heightening awareness of fashion’s cultural significance, the “Tailored for You” theme spotlighted 300 years of Black self-expression, honoring the invaluable contributions Black individuals have made to high fashion. Inspired by Monica L. Miller’s influential 2009 book, ‘Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity’, currently featured in the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition, the evening was a call to appreciate and evaluate these dazzling interpretations of a powerful theme.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 06, 2025 04:16 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).