Fashionably Late but Right on Time: A 2025 Met Gala Recap

Fashionably Late but Right on Time: A 2025 Met Gala Recap

Yes, I know I’m a little late to the party—but when it comes to fashion, especially fashion that makes a statement, that shakes the room and celebrates identity, there’s no such thing as too late. So here we are—let’s talk about the 2025 Met Gala. And what a moment it was!

This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” was not only timely, it was necessary. It ran in tandem with The Met’s spring exhibition, celebrating the artistry, legacy, and cultural significance of Black fashion—particularly Black dandyism. The theme was rich with history and soul, paying tribute to how Black style has long been used as a tool of resistance, as a declaration of presence, pride, and power. Black dandyism, once a form of survival and defiance, has now evolved into a bold celebration of creativity and cultural identity.

And I must say, the celebrities came correct. Finally! For once, most of them really tried to honor the theme, and honestly, I was impressed. This year didn’t feel like a costume party—it felt like a powerful fashion sermon. And trust me, I was all ears (and eyes)!

One of the most jaw-dropping moments came from none other than Rihanna, who used the red carpet to subtly and stylishly announce her third pregnancy. Only Rihanna can make a reveal look like a runway renaissance. She wore a black cropped woolen jacket, a tailored pinstripe skirt with a bustle, a wool bustier bodysuit, satin polka dot cravat, and ankle chain pumps—all tied together with a statement hat designed in collaboration with Stephen Jones. It was giving fashion-forward motherhood, wrapped in Black excellence.

Zendaya, as always, understood the assignment and then went ahead and taught the class. Dressed in a perfectly tailored white suit, she paid homage to the iconic zoot suit, a staple in Black dandy fashion. The oversized silhouette, the sharp shoulders, the clean lines—it was more than just style; it was storytelling through stitches. Zendaya didn’t just wear a look, she wore a legacy.

Then there was Nicki Minaj, stepping onto the carpet in a navy pinstripe Thom Browne creation that hugged her in all the right places. The dress was sleek yet bold, professional yet playful—with mismatched sleeves that added just the right touch of chaos and charm. It was giving “boss Barbie at a board meeting,” and I was here for every moment of it.

When it came to the men, I have to say—I was genuinely blown away. ASAP Rocky, Lewis Hamilton, and Pharrell Williams showed us that tailoring isn’t just about suits—it’s about innovation, identity, and intention. Rocky, in particular, turned heads in a piece from his own AWGE line: a slick double-breasted technical wool jacket inspired by the ruggedness of Marmot outerwear. It was the perfect blend of streetwear and suiting, with a nod to functionality and flair. Lewis, meanwhile, served sophistication with a modern twist—sharp tailoring with just enough edge to remind us why he remains one of fashion’s favorite risk-takers. Pharrell, true to form, was effortlessly cool, giving us that laid-back luxe that only he can deliver without ever trying too hard.

And then, like a beautiful surprise from the past, came Diana Ross, gliding up the Met steps in a divine gown with an 18-foot train—yes, eighteen!—embroidered with the names of her children and grandchildren. That, right there, was poetry. Fashion with feeling. It’s those quiet, intimate details that remind us why fashion is not just clothing, but language. She wasn’t just dressed—she was documented.

Of course, Janelle Monáe came through like the theme was written for her. She’s been channeling Black dandyism long before the rest of the world caught on, and this year, she wore a custom Thom Browne ensemble that was nothing short of a performance. Her deconstructed suit morphed as she moved, revealing sharp tailoring underneath—and yes, she even had a motorized monocle that doubled as a working clock. Only Janelle could pull off literal time travel on a red carpet and make it look that damn good.

As someone who has loved fashion all her life—not just the clothes, but the culture behind them—I felt seen. And as an African creative, my heart swelled with pride to see African designers standing tall and representing on the biggest stage in fashion. Oswald Boateng suited up Burna Boy and Tems in regal precision. Ugo Mozie dressed the legendary Diana Ross herself, bringing African heritage into every stitch. Thebe Magugu styled Aurora James in a look that blended elegance with storytelling. We also saw magic from David Tlale and Chuks Collins—each piece, a testament to our continent’s craftsmanship and creativity.

This wasn’t just a Met Gala—it was a moment of reclamation. A visual love letter to Black style, identity, and influence. And while there were many more looks worth mentioning, these were the ones that lingered in my mind long after the lights dimmed.

So yes, I may be a little late writing about it, but trust me—I’ve been mentally drafting this blog since the first tailored lapel hit the carpet. What a night. What a celebration. What a statement.

But enough from me—who were your favorites? Did any look stop you in your scrolling tracks? Let me know in the comments. I know y’all have taste, too.

Until next time,Stay wandering. Stay weaving. Stay wonderfully dressed.

Jez | Wander and Weave