A Night of Legacy, Luxury & Black Excellence
The 2025 MET Gala was more than fashion it was a tribute to legacy, lineage, and the undeniable influence of Black creativity. From the red carpet to curated couture, this year’s theme brought Black designers, stylists, and muses to the forefront in a way that was bold, beautiful, and deeply intentional.
Step into the style and substance of the 2025 MET Gala with our curated gallery where every look told a story and Black excellence took center stage.
Vintage soul meets modern edge — Zendaya honors Black artistry
Zendaya turned heads in a sharply tailored suit — a tribute to Cab Calloway, with nods to Diana Ross in Mahogany and the art of Barkley Hendricks.
A look inspired by legacy — GiGi Hadid channels Zelda Wynn Valdes
GiGi Hadid honored trailblazing designer Zelda Barbour Wynn Valdes, the first Black woman to own a boutique on Broadway, whose legacy shaped generations of style.
Refined, radiant, and rooted — Savannah James in Hanifa
Savannah James radiated elegance in a custom gown by Hanifa, celebrating a visionary Black-owned brand known for innovation and curve-honoring design.
A nod to Africa’s richness — Lewis Hamilton in custom tribute
Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 driver and MET Gala co-chair, embraced African heritage through shells, vibrant color, and regal texture — paying homage to both the continent and cultural icons.
A tribute to artistry — Janelle Monáe in custom Paul Tazewell
Janelle Monáe stunned in a dramatic custom look by Paul Tazewell, the first Black man to win an Oscar for costume design. Her ensemble blended theatricality with striking structure.
Golden-era glamour redefined — Keke Palmer in Vera Wang
Keke Palmer paid homage to Dorothy Dandridge in a romantic Vera Wang gown, merging Old Hollywood glamour with modern Black elegance.
Bold textures and beauty — Lupita Nyong’o never misses
Lupita Nyong’o embodied regal futurism in a sculptural, textured look that played with proportion and presence.
Velvet royalty — Angela Bassett commands in Burberry
Angela Bassett made a powerful entrance in a velvet Burberry suit in deep sapphire, exuding timeless strength and luxury.
Hats off to a legend — Mary J. Blige stuns in Stella
Mary J. Blige gave full diva energy in Stella McCartney, complete with a bold hat and signature confidence.
Cinematic and soulful — Teyana Taylor in tribute to Ruth Carter
Teyana Taylor honored costume designer Ruth E. Carter with a look that was rich in symbolism, structure, and spirit.
Each look was a statement. Each stitch, a story. From heritage to high fashion, the 2025 MET Gala proved once again: