Author: Camilla Friso
The Met Gala 2025 was more than just a celebration of style; it was an eloquent dialogue between fashion’s past, present and future. Under the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” the gala honored the profound impact of Black dandies—icons whose elegance and boldness have shaped fashion history. Central to the evening was the poignant tribute to André Leon Talley, a legendary figure whose unmistakable style and pioneering spirit have become synonymous with sophisticated audacity.
Amid the dazzling array of couture, it was Colman Domingo’s Valentino ensemble that stood out as the evening’s emotional and aesthetic centerpiece. His royal-blue cape, echoing Talley’s iconic 2011 Met Gala look, was not merely fashion—it was remembrance, respect, and a powerful acknowledgment of Talley’s enduring legacy. With intricate embellishments and meticulous craftsmanship, Domingo’s attire vividly embodied the intersection of elegance and daring that Talley so masterfully represented.
In this article, I’ve selected the top 20 standout looks of the evening—those that not only dazzled on the carpet but also carried meaning, creativity, and relevance to the night’s theme. This year’s gala reminded us that fashion, at its best, transcends mere aesthetics—it tells stories, honors legacies, and inspires future generations.
Colman Domingo in Valentino
Colman Domingo’s appearance at the 2025 Met Gala, dressed in a stunning Valentino ensemble featuring a royal blue cape, paid homage to André Leon Talley, fashion’s quintessential dandy.
From the moment the theme of the 2025 Met Gala was announced, all thoughts naturally turned toward André Leon Talley. Weeks of reflection, inspiration, and thoughtful consideration followed, as the fashion world searched for a symbol that would embody the elegance and excellence of the African dandy. Everyone wondered how Talley might be honored during this glamorous spring evening, knowing any tribute had to be extraordinary—one that would celebrate not only his distinctive style but also his unique ability to blend elegance with daring.
André Leon Talley, fashion’s ultimate dandy, was more than just an iconic figure—he was a beacon of change, crossing eras and styles, leaving an indelible mark. Talley was celebrated not only for his unmistakable fashion sense, characterized by bold caftans, capes, and vibrant colors, but also for his steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion. His commanding presence, often heightened by monumental capes, made him a recognizable and unforgettable icon.
As the first African American to hold a significant role at Vogue, rising to become the magazine’s creative director, Talley profoundly influenced fashion, leaving behind a legacy far beyond mere style. He became a symbol of elegance, innovation, and transformative change within the industry.
The 2025 Met Gala theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” provided the perfect occasion to honor Talley’s legacy. Colman Domingo, co-chair of the event alongside Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Anna Wintour, offered a meaningful and moving tribute.
Domingo stepped onto the daffodil-covered carpet wearing an opulent royal-blue cape designed by Valentino, adorned with an intricately jeweled and sequined collar. His look immediately evoked Talley’s iconic appearance at the 2011 Met Gala, when the theme was “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.” On that occasion, Talley had worn a deep blue cape over a black tuxedo, accented by patent red shoes and matching socks—fully embracing his regal and theatrical aesthetic. The striking similarity in the rich blue shades of both capes almost seemed fated, as if Talley had foreseen, with his timeless style, the color Domingo proudly showcased on this evening. Once again, Talley offered a masterclass in style, effortlessly linking elegance, color, and symbolism.
Colman Domingo’s look for the 2025 Met Gala was specially created by Valentino’s Creative Director Alessandro Michele. It featured a long pleated blue cape with an ivory linen bolero, delicately embellished with pale gold and silver sequins, antique silver detailing and ivory feathers. Beneath the cape, Domingo revealed a sophisticated double-breasted wool jacket with a black and butter-checkered pattern, sharp shoulders and wide-legged wool trousers. Completing the look was a hand-painted silk flower brooch adorned with polka dots and Valentino Garavani accessories. Domingo further elevated his outfit with exquisite jewelry from Boucheron, including striking earrings and a sophisticated Omega watch, adding an extra touch of luxurious refinement fitting for a tribute to Talley.
Domingo’s homage was more than just aesthetic—it acknowledged Talley’s groundbreaking role as a pioneer and mentor. Domingo has frequently expressed his admiration for Talley, citing him as a source of inspiration and an embodiment of timeless elegance. Thus, the 2025 Met Gala became a runway not only for fashion, but for the enduring memory and legacy of André Leon Talley, honored beautifully and thoughtfully by Colman Domingo. Talley remains an everlasting icon, forever defining fashion history and leaving an indelible legacy.
Zendaya in Louis Vuitton
Zendaya is among the smartest stars when it comes to utilising fashion to send messages or make points, and she understood that, on a night paying homage to the styles of Black men, she’d do well to go for simple and impeccable over her usual theatrics on the Met Gala red carpet. This night isn’t about her, and she’s letting you know, in a very chic way, that she understands that.
Gigi Hadid in Miu Miu
This gorgeous stunner of a gown was a recreation of one worn by Josephine Baker in the 1930s, which means it was a smart and poignant way to tip her hat to the theme while still getting to work a killer dress. The 1940s hair looks amazing on her and coordinates really well with the design. That’s the kind of styling we like to see for the Met Gala: fun and adventurous, with a sense of history and flair to it.
Rihanna in Marc Jacobs
As a seven-time Met Gala attendee, Rihanna is a seasoned pro at delivering a head-turning fashion moment on the Met steps. When she first attended in 2007, she went the more classic and glamorous route in a white empire-waist Georges Chakra dress replete with rhinestone embellishments. As the years have progressed, however, her Met Gala looks have only gotten more elaborate and avant-garde.
Ayo Edebiri in Ferragamo
She mentioned the design paid tribute to her father and grandfather, and their shared Edo heritage. The beading is gorgeous and eye-catching. We’re not entirely convinced the jacket coordinates all that well with the dress, but we appreciate that she was marrying her heritage, her family, and the themes of the night all in one garment. It’s sharp and different.
A$AP Rocky in AWGE
The co-chair wanted to pay tribute to his hometown of New York, so he sported a very practical umbrella and ensemble from his own design studio, which pulls from both formal menswear and streetwear elements. It marries its various inspirations very well, and the whole look suits him perfectly while allowing him to stand out from the other co-chairs.
Lorde in Thom Browne and Cartier jewelry
We’ve got to give Thom Browne credit for coming up with the cleverest womenswear take on the night’s theme. Lorde came dressed as a sexy cummerbund, essentially; a minimalist, modern homage to formal menswear without any of the cliches or common tropes associated with such attempts. It’s sexy and sharp. It may not have the kind of luxe richness one tends to associate with dandyism, but we’d rather see stars come to the Met Gala in something that reflects their own taste and aesthetic than show up in a costume that doesn’t suit them.
Pharrell Williams in Louis Vuitton
Honestly? I was expecting a bit more from him, but it’s still incredible and expertly tailored. The slightly flared pants are perfection.
Emma Chamberlain in Courreges
Year after year, celebrities try (and fail) to choose a look that’s on-theme and true to their personal style — but Emma Chamberlain succeeded with this deconstructed pinstripe-suit dress.
Alex Consani in Swarovski
10/10. No notes for the Model of the Year.
Myha’la in Luar
My personal best-dressed of the night. It strikes the right balance of being on-theme but also so impactful and memorable — the perfect choice for her Met Gala debut. Oh, and those thigh-high Timberlands? Beyond.
Doechii in Louis Vuitton
So many women came in the kind of salutes to Black Dandies we would have expected, but in retrospect, we should have been able to predict that she’d be the one to show up in a salute to Black Dandy nerds. (A compliment!) This is cute, hilarious, perfectly suited to her, and strangely kind of chic. We’re not entirely convinced the pattern-mixing works, but we’re also not convinced that it’s supposed to. We might normally suggest that this comes too close to costume, but this actually looks like something she’d wear to, like, the Grammys. Love the afro.
Jenna Ortega in Balmain
Jenna Ortega’s 2025 look was a masterclass in concept-driven couture. Wearing a custom Balmain gown crafted entirely from metallic rulers, she transformed a humble tailoring tool into a bold fashion statement. The sculpted, strapless silhouette hugged her frame with architectural precision, each ruler placed vertically to mimic the lines of a patternmaker’s draft. This literal take on the “Tailored for You” dress code was both clever and visually arresting. The silver sheen of the gown was complemented by Old Hollywood waves, smoky eyes, and a deep burgundy lip, adding a touch of vintage glamour to the futuristic ensemble. Accessorized with diamond jewelry and silver Christian Louboutin pumps, Ortega’s look was a harmonious blend of innovation and elegance.
Bad Bunny in Prada and Cartier jewelry
Bad Bunny serves up a masterclass in eclectic sophistication. His bold choice—a structured chocolate-brown suit paired with striking, embellished gloves and a statement Prada bag—perfectly balances classic elegance with playful extravagance. The headpiece and vintage-inspired eyewear complete a look that exudes confidence, creativity and effortless cool. Bad Bunny isn’t just attending the Met Gala; he’s redefining it with a fearless attitude and impeccable style.
Lana Del Rey in Valentino
This is a subtle take on tailoring … to say the very least. But she looks good and the dress is beautiful.
Kim Kardashian in Chrome Hearts
Kim Kardashian’s Chrome Hearts is the definition of fierce, unapologetic confidence. This bold, structured black leather gown paired with the dramatic hat delivers a powerful mix of high-fashion drama and edgy glamour. She effortlessly owns the spotlight, showcasing a daring attitude perfectly tailored for the event’s extravagance. A fearless statement that captures exactly the spirit we want to see at the Met Gala.
Jennie in Chanel
Jennie’s Chanel look is the epitome of refined audacity. Marrying classic Chanel elegance with contemporary confidence, the structured bodice, accented by pearls and a striking white camellia, perfectly embodies the maison’s iconic sophistication. The bold choice of trousers combined with the dramatic train is a fresh, empowered twist, capturing an attitude that’s equal parts fierce and effortlessly chic. It’s fashion-forward yet timeless—exactly the blend of style and attitude that makes the Met Gala unforgettable.
Lewis Hamilton in Wales Bonner
Lewis Hamilton is pure refined charm, channeling an elegant yet audacious spirit. His crisp white tuxedo, impeccably tailored with subtle embellishments and accessorized with a sophisticated beret, evokes a timeless sophistication infused with contemporary flair. Hamilton effortlessly combines classic luxury with bold individuality, embodying precisely the confident and fashion-forward attitude that defines the essence of the Met Gala.
André 3000 in Burberry and Cartier jewelry
This king has a strong back and an even stronger point of view. Potentially one of the best-dressed man of the night.
Central Cee in Jacquemus
Cench’s look isn’t the most out there, but it’s true to theme. This is a guy who famously doesn’t do tailoring, but he broke his own rule to sport a structured double-breasted suit, the kind worn by dandies in the 1960s. But with a shortened jacket, things instantly look more casual, and way more in Central Cee’s ballpark.
