The 2025 Met Gala Theme ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style’ is a cultural and historical exploration of Black style dating back to the 18th century, through the concept of dandyism. The theme recognises the resistance Black dandyism stands for, through the use of well-structured suits and polished shoes, that reflects the rooted desire to take up space within society. A white-gaze world which denied their dignity, yet the dandy would take it back with pride.
The elegant and tailored form of self-expression has taken up many forms throughout history, whilst still staying true to its core values of autonomy, individualism, and tradition. Since Black dandyism has a key role in black male style, it was vital for the male stars to not disappoint on the blue carpet and Coleman Domingo (one of this year’s co-chairs) wearing Valentino definitely did not disappoint. The initial cape felt a little off place, but that was removed revealing a stylish suit, embodying the dandy nature of mixed patterns and textures.
One of my favourite looks of the night has to be Teyana Taylor in custom Ruth E. Carter, where the maximalist mix of textiles, harmonious colours and impeccable silhouette creates one of the most memorable looks at the Met Gala ever. Jodie Turner-Smith in Burberry paid homage to the Black dandy through its European connections, by combining English upper class characteristics, creating a very classy yet vividly striking look that exudes dominance and a powerful stance.
The most creative of looks has to be Janell Monae in Thom Browne, who showed up wearing a boxy cape that had an illustrated suit (bag included), with many intricate details, which was then removed to reveal a sharp, vibrant suit underneath. The Met Gala wouldn’t be the same if there wasn’t a dramatic outfit reveal of some kind, and Damson Idris definitely did that when being ripped out of a F1 race suit to reveal a red 3-piece Tommy Hilfigier suit, embellished with a custom emerald brooch. Now unfortunately there were some looks which were disappointing, and it pains me to say Anne Hathaway was one of them.
Wearing Carolina Herrera, she wore a bedazzled striped skirt, a casual ponytail and a ruffled white shirt - the simplicity was simply too basic and would have probably suited any other event better than the Met. Halle Berry’s head turning Laquan Smith dress was tacky and tasteless, as the unnecessary sheer cut outs made for an uncomfortable look, both for her and the viewer, and so this risky ensemble wasn’t quite it. An overflow of Barbie pink slithered up the Met Gala steps as Shakira entered wearing a skin-tight gown, with a crinkled shiny cape attached to her wrists, where I’m not quite sure how it fits the theme, but I don’t think it would be a good choice of dress for any occasion.
Of course, as is common with the Met, there were a few basic outfits that weren’t creatively expansive; however this year there were many strong looks, which makes up for it. I believe the theme was culturally significant and relevant to be explored, as it combined history with the modern day seamlessly.