The Met Gala 2025, often dubbed fashion’s biggest night, took place on May 5, 2025, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This annual fundraising benefit for the Costume Institute, also known as the Met Gala, marked its 77th year with a record-breaking $31 million raised, solidifying its status as a cultural and sartorial milestone. Organized under the watchful eye of Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, the event welcomed approximately 450 luminaries from fashion, film, music, sports, and beyond. This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” inspired by Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, celebrated the historical and cultural significance of Black men’s fashion, particularly the concept of the Black dandy. With a dress code of “Tailored for You,” attendees interpreted the theme with creativity, delivering some of the most memorable Met Gala looks 2025 to date.
In this comprehensive news story, we delve into what is the Met Gala, the intricacies of the 2025 Met Gala theme, standout Met Gala outfits, the star-studded Met Gala 2025 guest list, and details on where to watch the Met Gala 2025. From Rihanna’s Met Gala 2025 baby bump reveal to Zendaya’s Met Gala 2025 tailored masterpiece, we cover the highlights that made this year’s event unforgettable.
What Is the Met Gala?
For those unfamiliar, what is the Met Gala? The Met Gala, formally known as the Costume Institute Benefit, is an annual fundraising gala held at the Met, specifically to support the Costume Institute’s exhibitions, acquisitions, and operations. Established in 1948, it has evolved from a modest charity dinner into a global spectacle, often compared to the Oscars for its star power and fashion influence. The event coincides with the opening of the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition, which sets the Met Gala theme each year. Under Anna Wintour’s stewardship since 1995, the gala has become a tightly curated affair, with tickets priced at $75,000 and tables starting at $350,000, making it an exclusive event for the elite.
The Met Gala 2025 continued this tradition, blending philanthropy with high fashion. The no-phone policy inside the event ensures an air of mystery, but the Met Gala red carpet is where the world’s eyes are fixed, as celebrities showcase their interpretations of the theme through extravagant Met Gala outfits. This year, the red carpet was a canvas for exploring Black dandyism, a concept rooted in using fashion to assert identity and challenge societal norms.
What Was the Met Gala Theme 2025?
The 2025 Met Gala theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” marked a historic moment as the first Costume Institute exhibition since 2003’s “Men in Skirts” to focus exclusively on menswear. Curated by Andrew Bolton and guest curator Monica L. Miller, the exhibition, on view from May 10 to October 26, 2025, explored the sartorial legacy of the Black dandy. Drawing from Miller’s book, it examined how Black men have used tailored clothing to navigate and redefine identity across centuries, from the 18th century to today. The dress code, “Tailored for You,” encouraged attendees to embrace personalized interpretations of tailoring, resulting in a diverse array of Met Gala looks.
The theme resonated deeply, celebrating the rhythm and blues of Black culture, as Miller noted during the Vogue Met Gala livestream. “Rhythm and blues is how Black people experience culture and history,” she said, highlighting the exhibition’s blend of historical gravitas and contemporary flair. The Met theme 2025 was not just about fashion but about storytelling, identity, and cultural reclamation, making it one of the most thought-provoking in recent years.
Met Gala 2025 Outfits: A Showcase of Tailored Elegance
The Met Gala 2025 red carpet was a sartorial triumph, with attendees embracing the theme’s focus on tailoring and Black dandyism. Here are some of the best Met Gala looks 2025 that defined the night:
Rihanna Met Gala 2025: A Baby Bump Reveal
Rihanna’s Met Gala 2025 appearance was a showstopper, as she debuted her third pregnancy in a head-to-toe Marc Jacobs ensemble. Co-chair A$AP Rocky hinted at the reveal, saying, “Rihanna’s outfit tonight is… just don’t cover her baby bump, you dig?” Her look, captured in Getty Images, featured a tailored silhouette that celebrated her pregnancy while honoring the theme’s focus on personal style. Rihanna’s ability to blend maternity with high fashion cemented her as a Met Gala best dressed icon.
Zendaya Met Gala 2025: Tailored Perfection
Zendaya’s Met Gala 2025 look, styled by Law Roach in collaboration with Burberry, was a masterclass in tailoring. Known for her red carpet dominance, Zendaya wore a sleek, androgynous suit that paid homage to the Black dandy aesthetic. The ensemble, featuring sharp lines and a bold brooch, was both modern and historical, earning her a spot among the best dressed Met Gala 2025. Her look was a testament to the theme’s versatility, blending masculine and feminine elements seamlessly.
Janelle Monáe Met Gala 2025: Avant-Garde Dandy
Janelle Monáe’s Met Gala 2025 appearance was a futuristic take on the dandy. Wearing a custom Valentino creation, Monáe’s outfit featured metallic tailoring and exaggerated proportions, pushing the boundaries of traditional menswear. Their look was a nod to the theme’s exploration of identity and mobility, making it one of the most innovative Met Gala outfits 2025.
Diana Ross Met Gala 2025: A Legendary Cape
Diana Ross’s Met Gala 2025 gown was a highlight, featuring an 18-foot train embroidered with family names. The dramatic cape, designed by a yet-to-be-named couturier, was a celebration of legacy and style, aligning with the theme’s focus on personal narrative. Ross’s appearance was a reminder of her enduring influence, earning her praise as one of the best Met Gala looks.
Sabrina Carpenter Met Gala 2025: Romantic Tailoring
Sabrina Carpenter’s Met Gala 2025 look was a romantic interpretation of the theme. Wearing a tailored gown with delicate embroidery, Carpenter balanced softness with structure, embodying the “Tailored for You” dress code. Her ensemble was a crowd favorite, featured prominently in People Magazine and Us Weekly coverage.
Lauryn Hill Met Gala 2025: Cultural Reverence
Lauryn Hill’s Met Gala 2025 outfit was a tribute to Black heritage. Her custom gown, inspired by traditional African tailoring, featured intricate beadwork and bold colors. Hill’s look was a powerful statement on the red carpet, resonating with the theme’s cultural depth.
Alton Mason: The Modern Dandy
Model Alton Mason turned heads with a Formula 1-inspired suit that transitioned into a sleek burgundy look. His dramatic reveal was one of the night’s most theatrical, embodying the Black dandy spirit of bold self-expression. Mason’s outfit was a standout in Vogue Met Gala 2025 coverage.
Kerry Washington: Elegant Simplicity
Kerry Washington opted for a minimalist yet striking look, wearing a tailored gown with subtle nods to the dandy aesthetic. Her ensemble, featured in Vogue Met Gala galleries, was a lesson in understated elegance, proving that less can be more.
Demi Moore Met Gala 2025: Sculptural Tailoring
Demi Moore’s Met Gala 2025 look was a sculptural masterpiece, with a gown that played with volume and structure. Her outfit, captured in Met Gala photos, was a bold interpretation of the theme, earning her accolades for creativity.
Pharrell Williams: Co-Chair Charisma
As a co-chair, Pharrell Williams embodied the theme with a Louis Vuitton ensemble that blended classic tailoring with modern flair. His look, featuring vibrant accessories, was a celebration of his role as a fashion innovator, making him a standout in Met Gala looks 2025.
Colman Domingo Met Gala: Co-Chair Couture
Colman Domingo’s Met Gala look was a testament to his status as a style icon. His tailored suit, adorned with intricate embroidery, was a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, earning him a spot among the best dressed Met Gala 2025.
Miley Cyrus Met Gala 2025: Edgy Elegance
Miley Cyrus’s Met Gala 2025 appearance was a bold take on the theme, with a tailored jumpsuit that mixed punk and dandy elements. Her look, featured in Vanity Fair, was a refreshing departure from traditional gowns, showcasing her fearless style.
Met Gala 2025 Guest List: A Star-Studded Affair
The Met Gala 2025 guest list was a closely guarded secret, as always, with Anna Wintour having the final say. The event welcomed approximately 450 attendees, including co-chairs Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, with LeBron James as honorary chair (though he did not attend due to an injury). The host committee was a powerhouse of talent, featuring:
- André 3000
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Ayo Edebiri
- Dapper Dan
- Doechii
- Edward Enninful
- Jeremy O. Harris
- Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee
- Audra McDonald
- Janelle Monáe
- Angel Reese
- Sha’Carri Richardson
- Tyla
- Usher
- Kara Walker
Regular attendees like Rihanna, Zendaya, the Kardashians, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Blake Lively (who skipped this year) were joined by rumored guests such as Shakira, Lizzo, and Mary J. Blige. The diversity of the guest list reflected the theme’s celebration of Black culture, with artists, athletes, and creatives taking center stage.
Where to Watch Met Gala 2025: Livestream and Coverage
Wondering where to watch the Met Gala 2025? The Met Gala live stream 2025 was hosted by Vogue, broadcast across its digital platforms, including Vogue’s YouTube channel, TikTok, and website, starting at 6:00 p.m. ET. The Vogue Met Gala livestream was led by hosts Teyana Taylor, La La Anthony, and Ego Nwodim, with Emma Chamberlain as a special correspondent interviewing stars on the red carpet. E! also provided comprehensive coverage with Live From E!: Met Gala 2025, hosted by Zanna Roberts Rassi, Maria Taylor, Elaine Welteroth, Yvonne Orji, and Christian Siriano, available on Peacock, E! Online, and various YouTube channels.
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For international viewers, the Met Gala live coverage was accessible via Vogue’s platforms, with additional updates on social media like Instagram and TikTok. The Met Gala red carpet time ran from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET, though some celebrities arrived fashionably late. For those asking, “what channel is the Met Gala on?” E! was the primary television channel, but streaming options were the most accessible. Met Gala coverage 2025 also included live blogs from outlets like NBC News, ABC News, and the BBC, ensuring fans didn’t miss a moment.
To rewatch, visit Vogue’s official site or YouTube for the full Met Gala livestream. Social media platforms were flooded with Met Gala photos and videos, making it easy to catch up on the night’s highlights.
What Happens at the Met Gala?
While the red carpet is the public’s focus, what happens at the Met Gala? Inside, guests enjoy cocktails, a dinner curated by chef Kwame Onwuachi, and a high-profile performance (the performer’s identity remained a secret). Attendees explore the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibition, which featured garments, paintings, and photographs by artists like Tyler Mitchell and Torkwase Dyson. The decor, designed by artist Cy Gavin, included a climbing tower of narcissus flowers and a projected painting, Untitled (Sky), during dinner.
The no-phone policy ensures privacy, but the Met Gala after party 2025 is where the night continues. Events like Moncler’s pre-gala party, hosted by Miley Cyrus, Edward Enninful, and Remo Ruffini, saw stars like Anne Hathaway and Jodie Turner-Smith in attendance. The after-parties, covered by Vogue and Vanity Fair, were as star-studded as the main event.
Met Gala 2025 Time and Logistics
For those asking, “what time is the Met Gala?” the event began at 6:00 p.m. ET on May 5, 2025, with the Met Gala red carpet 2025 kicking off at 5:30 p.m. ET. The Met Gala start time for arrivals extended until 8:00 p.m., with some stars arriving later. The event, held at where is the Met Gala held, the Metropolitan Museum of Art on New York’s Upper East Side, typically lasts until midnight, though after-parties extend into the early hours.
When does the Met Gala end? The formal event wraps around 11:00 p.m., but the Met Gala after party 2025 keeps the celebration going. For those wondering, “is the Met Gala televised?” the gala itself isn’t, but the red carpet is extensively covered, as outlined in where to watch Met Gala.
Best Dressed Met Gala 2025: A Cultural Celebration
The best dressed Met Gala 2025 list was a celebration of creativity and cultural resonance. Standouts included:
- Rihanna: Her pregnancy reveal in Marc Jacobs was both personal and thematic.
- Zendaya: Her Burberry suit was a masterclass in tailored elegance.
- Janelle Monáe: Their Valentino look pushed the boundaries of the dandy aesthetic.
- Diana Ross: Her 18-foot train was a legacy-defining moment.
- Alton Mason: His dramatic reveal was a nod to the theme’s theatricality.
These Met Gala looks were celebrated across Vogue Met Gala 2025, People Magazine, and Us Weekly, with fans voting on their favorites via Vogue’s online polls.
The Impact of Superfine: Tailoring Black Style
The theme for Met Gala 2025, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” was more than a fashion statement; it was a cultural dialogue. By focusing on Black dandyism, the exhibition and gala highlighted how fashion has been a tool for Black men to assert identity and challenge systemic barriers. As committee member Usher noted, “The theme this year is not only timely but also speaks to our rich culture that should always be widely celebrated.”
The Met Gala 2025 also set a new standard for inclusivity, with a diverse host committee and co-chairs who embodied the theme’s spirit. The event’s record-breaking fundraising success ensures the Costume Institute’s continued ability to tell such impactful stories through fashion.
How to Watch the Met Gala 2025: A Global Spectacle
For those still wondering how to watch the Met Gala, the Met Gala 2025 live stream was the best way to experience the red carpet in real time. Available on Vogue’s digital platforms, Peacock, and E!, the coverage was accessible globally. The Vogue live stream Met Gala offered exclusive interviews, while E!’s Live From E! provided behind-the-scenes insights. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram were abuzz with Met Gala arrivals, making it easy to follow along.
For those asking, “where can I watch the Met Gala 2025?” or “what channel is the Met Gala on tonight,” the answer lies in streaming. The Met Gala streaming options ensured that fans worldwide could witness the Met Gala 2025 red carpet without needing a cable subscription.
Conclusion: A Night of Love and Legacy
The Met Gala 2025 was a celebration of love, identity, and cultural legacy. The theme of Met Gala 2025, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” brought forth a wave of creativity, with Met Gala outfits 2025 that ranged from Rihanna’s heartfelt reveal to Zendaya’s tailored elegance. The event’s impact extended beyond fashion, sparking conversations about representation and history.
As fans continue to rewatch the Met Gala live stream and pore over Met Gala photos in Getty Images, the Met Gala 2025 will be remembered as a pivotal moment in fashion history. Whether you tuned in via Vogue Met Gala live stream or followed along on social media, the night was a testament to the power of style to tell stories that resonate across generations.
FAQs
Q: What is the Met Gala theme this year?
A: The Met Gala theme 2025 was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” focusing on Black dandyism and the cultural significance of tailored menswear.
Q: Where to watch Met Gala 2025?
A: The Met Gala 2025 live stream was available on Vogue’s digital platforms, YouTube, TikTok, and E!’s Live From E! on Peacock and E! Online.
Q: What time does Met Gala start?
A: The Met Gala 2025 time for red carpet arrivals began at 5:30 p.m. ET on May 5, with the event starting at 6:00 p.m. ET.
Q: Who was on the Met Gala 2025 guest list?
A: The Met Gala 2025 guest list included co-chairs Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, plus a host committee featuring André 3000, Ayo Edebiri, and more.
Q: What are the best Met Gala looks 2025?
A: Standout Met Gala looks 2025 included Rihanna’s Marc Jacobs baby bump reveal, Zendaya’s Burberry suit, and Diana Ross’s 18-foot train.
Reference:
- Vogue: Met Gala 2025 Coverage
- NBC News: Met Gala 2025 Highlights
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Superfine Exhibition
- Vanity Fair: Met Gala 2025 Rewatch
- BBC News: Met Gala 2025 Guide
