THE MET GALA: CELEBS WHO UNDERSTOOD THE THEME
TL;DR:
- The Met Gala 2025 theme was based on black dandyism, inspired by Monica L. Miller's book "Slaves to Fashion"
- The dress code "Tailored for You" encouraged guests to show personal style
- Joey King, Damson Idris, Teyana Taylor, Doechii and Rihanna understood the theme best
- Rihanna revealed her third pregnancy on the red carpet
- The evening proved that fashion is a powerful tool for cultural expression
What is black dandyism and why was it the theme?
Black dandyism is a style and cultural movement that finds its origins in the Black community, where the emphasis lies on fashion, elegance, self-expression and refinement.
The term "dandy" itself comes from the 19th century and refers to men known for their refined, often flamboyant clothing and outward appearance. This style was often a form of resistance against racial and social oppression.
Black dandyism has its roots in various eras, from the Harlem Renaissance to the contemporary fashion of icons like RuPaul, and today rappers and artists such as A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Tyler the Creator and even Beyoncé. It's a movement that emphasises refinement, individuality, creativity and pride, often with an emphasis on tailoring, luxurious fabrics, and bold accessories.
So it's not only about fashion, but also about self-declaration and the power to make a statement, within a culture that was often subordinate, about who you are and what you represent. We saw that same power of personal expression at Paris Fashion Week 2026.
How did Joey King translate the theme to the red carpet?
Joey King brought a retro essence to dandyism with her green Miu Miu suit. Her ensemble, a perfect fusion of a classic silhouette and experimental flair, was one of the few that fully understood the theme.
The addition of mirror crystals and a black-and-white checked shirt, together with a 3D abstract tie, was a bold move that lifted her look to a higher level. King was one of the few who managed to capture the balance between tradition and innovation perfectly.
Why was Damson Idris' outfit change so memorable?
Damson Idris brought a powerful statement to the red carpet with a dramatic outfit change that drew everyone's eyes. The actor, known for his role in the F1 film, arrived in an F1-inspired white racing suit, decorated with countless logos and nearly 20,000 Swarovski crystals.
But the real spectacle came when he took off the racing suit to reveal a custom-made Tommy Hilfiger suit. The modern, gold-embroidered tartan design was a contemporary translation of classic black dandyism, with the flared trousers and satin collar giving him a modern yet classic appearance.
What made Teyana Taylor's look so meaningful?
Teyana Taylor's look was a masterpiece of both history and personal meaning. In collaboration with the iconic costume designer Ruth Carter, Taylor created a custom-made burgundy suit, inspired by the Harlem Renaissance.
The look was a tribute to the forbidden zoot suits that became a symbol of rebellion in the 1940s, with detailed crystal roses and a subtle reference to her own song "Rose in Harlem." The durag under her hat, the crystal roses on her cape, and the striking accessories, including a walking cane and gloves, made the look both extravagant and steeped in meaning.
How did Doechii interpret dandyism in her own way?
Doechii made a bold debut at the Met Gala 2025 in a custom-made Louis Vuitton outfit, designed by Pharrell Williams. She wore a monogram tuxedo jacket combined with shorts in the brand's iconic damier pattern, giving a contemporary twist to the classic idea of black dandyism.
The LV monogram on her cheekbone and her bold accessories, including a burgundy bow, knee socks, a mini Speedy bag and a cigar, gave her ensemble a playful and bold appearance. Her look received mixed reactions, but anyone who really understood the theme of the Met Gala saw immediately that Doechii's outfit was a perfect translation of the event's message. She brought the combination of personal style and modern dandyism to the fore.
Why did Rihanna dominate the red carpet once again?
If there's one person who knows how to dominate the red carpet, it's Rihanna. This year she didn't just have a new look, but also big news: baby number three is on the way. The singer, entrepreneur and fashion icon chose to reveal her pregnancy in the most Rihanna way possible. Right in the middle of the steps of the Met Gala 2025.
In a custom-made Marc Jacobs look, Rihanna let her baby bump shine. She wore a black wool tuxedo jacket with a bustier body underneath and a pinstripe skirt reminiscent of an oversized blazer. A satin polka-dot tie, matching pumps and a statement hat finished it off.
What made the Met Gala 2025 more than just a fashion event?
The 2025 Met Gala was more than just a fashion event: it was a celebration of the power of black dandyism and the way fashion can serve as a form of personal and cultural expression. From Joey King's experimental approach to the theme to Damson Idris' homage to both classic tailoring and his own background, and Teyana Taylor's historical tribute to the zoot suit, the guests of the evening became living proof of the transformative power of fashion.
Curious how tailoring and personal expression translated to the catwalks? Then also read our Milan Fashion Week highlights and the streetwear trends of 2026.
Frequently asked questions about the Met Gala 2025
What was the theme of the Met Gala 2025?
The theme was inspired by Monica L. Miller's book "Slaves to Fashion" and brought black dandyism into focus. The dress code "Tailored for You" encouraged guests to combine personal style with the rich tradition of black menswear, elegance and cultural expression.
Who had the best look at the Met Gala 2025?
Teyana Taylor's burgundy suit, in collaboration with costume designer Ruth Carter, is widely seen as one of the strongest looks. It was inspired by the forbidden zoot suits of the 1940s and featured references to her own music. Damson Idris' dramatic outfit change also made a big impression.
How did Rihanna reveal her pregnancy at the Met Gala?
Rihanna chose the Met Gala 2025 as the stage to announce her third pregnancy. In a custom-made Marc Jacobs look (a black tuxedo jacket with a bustier body and pinstripe skirt) she let her baby bump shine on the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum.
What is the significance of black dandyism in fashion?
Black dandyism is a cultural movement that combines fashion, elegance and self-expression as a form of resistance and pride. From the Harlem Renaissance to contemporary icons like A$AP Rocky and Pharrell Williams: it's about tailoring, luxurious fabrics and bold accessories as a statement of identity.
