Forget the usual glitz and glamour — this year’s Met Gala wasn’t just about the jaw-dropping fashion.
It was about history, identity, and style rooted in resistance.
Held at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the 2025 event took a bold, brilliant turn, honoring the cultural impact of Black fashion with the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.”
As always, the Met Gala served as a major fundraiser for the museum’s Costume Institute.
But in 2025, it became something deeper — a stage for storytelling, pride, and celebration of Black excellence in fashion across generations.
“Superfine” Was More Than a Theme — It Was a Tribute
This year’s theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, focused on the rich and revolutionary legacy of Black dandyism — a cultural movement where Black individuals have long used tailored clothing to express confidence, challenge social norms, and reclaim power.
The inspiration came from Slaves to Fashion, a groundbreaking book by Monica L. Miller, which explores how style has served as a form of self-definition for Black communities.
The Met’s exhibit brought that vision to life, showing how Black fashion has influenced — and continues to shape — the world of couture with flair, elegance, and unapologetic creativity.
African Stars Owned the Red Carpet With Pride
African representation on the red carpet wasn’t just strong — it was unforgettable.
South African actress and activist Nomzamo Mbatha brought her signature grace as the red carpet correspondent for African Fashion International (AFI).
She proudly represented the continent, giving African fashion a global spotlight.
Then came Tyla, styled by the always-bold Law Roach, who stunned in a custom Jacquemus creation.
The look balanced structure and softness, perfectly reflecting the Met Gala’s tribute to tailored style with a touch of drama.
Tems, the Nigerian music sensation, teamed up with British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng to craft a masterpiece: a striking peacock-blue gown with pinstripe detailing and a grand bow.
It was a moment — blending classic tailoring with modern femininity and flair.
And let’s not forget Adut Akech, the South Sudanese-Australian supermodel, who floated down the carpet in an extraordinary Christian Dior gown.
Styled by @highheelprncess, her outfit featured a sculptural feather collar sparkling with Swarovski crystals.
She brought couture and culture together like only she can.
A Night That Celebrated Fashion and Identity
Behind the magic were co-chairs Anna Wintour, Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, ASAP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams — a mix of fashion royalty, creative voices, and cultural changemakers.
The red carpet came alive with Harlem Renaissance-inspired silhouettes, striking suits, bold colors, and prints that spoke volumes.
From headpieces to tailoring, everything carried a deeper meaning.
This wasn’t just about who wore what — it was a celebration of the legacy, pride, and artistry that Black fashion has carried for centuries.
It reminded us all that Black style is foundational to global fashion — not an influence, but an origin.