Met Gala 2025: A-List Hosts and Tailored Fashion Theme Unveiled!

The only Monday of the year worth celebrating is nearly here.

The Met Gala 2025 is scheduled for May 5, and Vogue magazine along with the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute have revealed the theme and host committee for this year’s gala: “Tailored For You.

This year, the event occurring annually at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the first Monday of May is being led by Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, F1 racer Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams. NBA star LeBron James will also act as an honorary chair for this special occasion, along with Vogue editor Anna Wintour holding her usual position on the committee.

The theme, unveiled in October, titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” revolves around the exploration of “dress sense” as a means of shaping Black identities. Particularly, it delves into the concept of the “Black dandy,” an aspect investigated in Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book, “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity.” In her research, which serves as the basis for an upcoming Costume Institute exhibit, Miller examines how Black men utilize fashion to reinvent their identities and envision novel ways of embodying political and social aspirations.

Although the overall theme for the event is “Superfine,” the dress code, revealed on February 4th, presents a slightly varied task. Instead of focusing solely on menswear, as the Met’s annual exhibit will do, the 2025 gala invites guests to follow the “Tailored For You” dress code, which is intentionally designed to offer guidance and stimulate creative interpretation.

In other words, bold embodiments of menswear seem to be encouraged, but not necessarily required.

Each year, the Met Gala keeps its guest list a secret until the stars make their entrance up the museum steps. However, an additional host committee, in addition to the event’s co-chairs, provides some hints about who might be attending. This year, Grammy winner Doechii, Olympic track star Sha’Carri Richardson, Ayo Edebiri, Spike Lee, WNBA player Angel Reese, Janelle Monaé, Usher, Simone Biles and her husband Jonathan Owens are among the notable figures on this year’s committee.

Keep reading for more insight into the Met’s annual costume benefit…

Should fortune smile upon you and secure an invitation to the most prominent fashion event annually, an individual seat would set you back by $30,000, whereas a table could be yours at a price of $275,000.

Luckily, not everyone needs to pay for admission, as it’s common knowledge that Anna Wintour extends invitations to rising designers at this gala. Additionally, the celebrities asked to showcase a designer’s creations on the red carpet typically don’t have to cover the costs either.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I can confidently say that the hefty price point doesn’t seem to be a deterrent for the fashionably inclined crowd. In fact, there’s often a waiting list to get their hands on these coveted items.

Cameron Silver, vintage store owner and frequent attendee, shared with Page Six in 2017 that there are some individuals who are known to be on the waitlist for this event. They are prepared to step in if a last-minute vacancy arises, sometimes even having their outfits ready days before the occasion, without knowing for certain if they will secure a seat.

The size can fluctuate, and a gathering of around 500 people is often seen as intimate and charming, while an event with more than 800 guests, which is the maximum the Met Gala has ever hosted, is generally thought to be excessively large.

Sylvana Ward Durrett of Vogue explained to Fast Company in 2017 that they aim for an intimate atmosphere for their guests. To achieve this, the number of attendees has been significantly reduced over the past few years by approximately 200-300 people.

Regardless of its lavish and glamorous image, the organizers aim for the event to be an exclusive experience for those fortunate enough to attend. In the documentary “The First Monday in May”, Ward Durrett was heard stating, “We want to maintain this as an intimate affair, that’s why people come here.

As a dedicated follower, I want to clarify that just because a celebrity is invited, it doesn’t guarantee an automatic plus-one for their partner. Each significant other needs to earn their own invitation separately.

After the first Monday in May, there’s no break for those who love fashion because preparations for the event typically begin the following Tuesday. Approximately 100 individuals contribute to the event throughout the year, with around ten of them being full-time Vogue staff members.

According to Vogue’s former director of special projects, Ward Durrett, I’m quite fond of a single-page summary. We maintain a sort of constantly growing task list that only seems to expand as we approach our deadline. Surprisingly, we go over this list every day, even if some tasks are repetitive.

The first item on her list is about the tent. “This means listing down all the details related to it.” By doing this, she can visualize the entire event from start to finish and ensure that no essential details are overlooked.

Regarding the extent of Anna Wintour’s involvement in the details, Andre Leon Talley, a former contributing editor at Vogue, noted in “The First Monday in May” that Anna scrutinizes every detail, from napkins to cutlery, lighting, floral arrangements, ushers’ attire, and more. This meticulousness extends over months and weeks leading up to the event.

Instead of keeping specifics about her renowned Chanel gown hidden, it seems that Anna Wintour chooses to maintain a cloak of secrecy. As Plum Sykes, a contributing editor at Vogue, told The New York Post, “It’s quite mysterious. She doesn’t want anyone to know her plans or her actions until the very instant she steps onto that red carpet and enters through the door.

If you’ve ever struggled with setting up seats for a wedding, you might get a glimpse of the challenges involved in arranging the seating plan for the Met Gala. This intricate task is one of the most significant aspects that the event organizers devote considerable time to, carefully positioning guests based on shared interests and connections.

In the film “The First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett commented that seating arrangements are carefully considered based on factors like whether they sat together last year, if they’ve ever sat next to each other at other events. He was amazed at how much goes into it, calling it a significant exercise of power-brokering.

Indeed, every year, the layout of the seating setup undergoes numerous adjustments as the event evolves. Ward Durett shared with Vogue that she quickly discovered the importance of using Velcro instead of post-it notes to prevent mistakes. In her words, “The seating chart has gone through countless revisions. Initially, we only had small sticky notes, and it was a disaster—things kept falling off, people were getting lost, and names were being rewritten numerous times each day.

Color-coding is employed, often adhering to a pattern of female-male-female-male whenever feasible. A surprising rule to note: Avoid seating spouses next to each other. The main aim here is to interact with new individuals and learn about their activities. It seems counterproductive if you attend such events merely to socialize with your spouse, so sorry, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds!

At every gathering, there tends to be a specific table assigned for the best or highest-priced seating, often located near the kitchen and restrooms. The Met Gala is no different, and the designers’ tables typically shift their position each year.

In addition, Wintour is deeply engaged in the process, famously reprimanding her team for attempting to conceal an H&M table in a scene from The First Monday in May. She stated, “We shouldn’t hide this table,” emphasizing, “truly, that’s not right.

Despite not being a high-end luxury label or designer house, brands like H&M (which also advertises in Vogue and other publications), Topshop, and Zara are increasingly making their mark on the biggest night of fashion. In 2015, H&M made a significant impact by having Sarah Jessica Parker wear a custom-made gown.

At high-profile events such as this one, it’s not surprising to find former lovers and friends-turned-rivals sitting together. For instance, remember when Selena Gomez and The Weeknd shared a space with his ex, Bella Hadid? In similar circumstances, it might have been awkward for Taylor Swift and Katy Perry to be at the same table during their feud’s peak. However, the importance of the event as a whole often outweighs any potential discomfort among the attendees.

It’s impossible to satisfy everyone, but we strive to make every seat feel great. Deep down, we know that everyone can’t be content all the time. However, we take pride in the fact that we generally meet high standards. There are only a few instances where people aren’t pleased, and when they occur, we make it a point to engage more closely with them the following year to set realistic expectations.” – Ward Durrett

In an unforgettable moment from the documentary “First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett placed three sticky tabs next to her seating arrangement, making it clear to Wintour that these individuals were hoped to leave.

Unfortunately, not everyone is satisfied with their designated seat, as fashion critic Cathy Horn pointed out in her 2006 article for The New York Times. In her piece, she mentioned that John Lydon, previously known as Johnny Rotten from the Sex Pistols, was seated at the very last spot on a long table, which appeared to be one of the least desirable seats in the carefully planned seating arrangement. Visibly upset with his seat assignment, Lydon stormed out twice, cursing museum staff members.

He eventually took his seat.

In a 2018 interview on The Late Late Show, James Corden inquired about any famous figure whom Anna Wintour would decline an invitation to the Met Gala.

To that, she replied: “Regarding Donald Trump,” (It’s known that then-President Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump have made appearances at the Met Gala on multiple occasions throughout the years. However, their last visit up those well-known stairs was back in 2012.)

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but feel a pang of sympathy for Tim Gunn, the legendary mentor from “Project Runway.” Just like many other celebs, he claims to have been barred from attending the illustrious Met Gala. The reason? Allegedly, he was blackballed by the one and only Anna Wintour, following a tale he shared with The Post that didn’t exactly flatter her image.

Back in 2016, on the set of TopMob’s Fashion Police, I found myself in a whirlwind of chaos that was nothing short of extraordinary. Since then, we’ve been navigating through a series of intense disagreements and debates, which have escalated into what can only be described as an ongoing battle of ideas.

Indeed, a meal is indeed provided during the occasion, as was once disclosed by Stephen Colbert, with everyone having to wait until Ms. Wintour took her place before starting to eat.

And, like every other aspect, Wintour is heavily involved in the menu planning for each gala.

A Vogue employee revealed to The Post that Wintour forbade ingredients that might lodge between one’s teeth (such as parsley), produce unpleasant breath (like excessive garlic), or, most problematically, discolor gowns. Consequently, appetizers are designed to be effortlessly consumed.

Typically, Wintour likes the served meals to align with the theme. However, this isn’t always achievable.

Sean Driscoll, proprietor of Glorious Food, shared that he faced numerous specific demands when he prepared lamb potpies for the 2011 Met Gala themed “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty,” as many attendees expressed disinterest in consuming this dish.

Moreover, they not only desire the food to taste great but also to appear visually appealing. As director Andrew Rossi confessed, this attention to detail left him astounded, particularly during a tasting where he observed Wintour. He noted, “Anna herself was spotted on her phone, scrutinizing various food presentations.

The reason behind the establishment of this rule remains unclear, as no clear explanation has been provided regarding why selfies and social media usage were prohibited at the stylish and envy-worthy event in 2015. This decision was made by Anna Wintour.

During that period, it was disclosed by a Vogue source to Pret-a-Reporter that a notification was sent to all attendees, advising them, “Taking photos with phones or using them for social media within the gala is strictly prohibited.

The magazine chose not to provide a statement regarding the report, however, a source previously disclosed to The Hollywood Reporter that it was strictly about ensuring guests’ safety and their overall enjoyment of the event.

In the movie “The First Monday in May“, it was evident that Wintour strongly disliked phones being used at the event, as shown when she confronted a famous male attendee who had initially declined but decided to come anyway. She expressed her irritation by saying to Ward Durrett, “Isn’t it possible for him to avoid using his phone throughout?

During an interview with The Post, Ward Durrett described Anna as a traditionalist who enjoys social gatherings where guests engage in face-to-face conversations. He noted that while they don’t intrude on others’ privacy, they may subtly prompt people if it seems necessary to maintain the desired atmosphere of genuine interaction.

Despite Wintour’s prohibition, celebrity shutterbugs have repeatedly disregarded the rule on numerous occasions, such as when Kylie Jenner posted her now-famous bathroom selfie during the 2017 event.

To put it simply, the rule is that you need to be at least 18 years old to participate in the major event. This was made clear by the organizers following the 2018 Met Gala, after it was disclosed that Maddie Ziegler, who was only 15 at the time, couldn’t attend due to her age. She explained her predicament to The Hollywood Reporter: “I can’t go, as I’m not old enough yet!

The organizer clarified to THR that the event was not suitable for individuals under 18, as a new age restriction was implemented that particular year.

Before 2018, notable young attendees included siblings Jaden Smith (aged 17) and Willow Smith (aged 15) who attended in 2016, Elle Fanning who made her debut at the event when she was only 13, and Hailee Steinfeld who first went to the Met Gala in 2011, just 14 years old.

However, it appears that young trendsetters in Hollywood have a potential workaround: If their parents are present, they can accompany them.

Although Wintour ultimately decides what each guest wears, their outfits don’t necessarily require her explicit approval (even though she keeps informed about everything that graces the renowned red carpet).

In the film “The First Monday in May“, I, as a devoted follower, find myself resonating with Andre Leon Talley’s perspective. He likens the process of a celebrity wearing a designer’s gown to assignments. As for the former creative director of Givenchy, Riccardo Tisci, who adorned both Beyoncé and Madonna at the 2016 Met Gala, he elaborates that each designer has their unique muse. In essence, they select a person who embodies their distinctive style the most.

Essentially, it can be said that the overall appearance of a celebrity at an event is usually determined by the fashion designer who extended the invitation.

Every year, the gala’s theme serves as a general inspiration – this year’s theme is “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion”, while last year was “Camp: Notes on Fashion. However, there are no set rules about how guests or designers should interpret these themes.

However, you might be wondering about how they decide on the theme for each exhibition. This process begins more than a year prior to the first Monday in May. It’s Andrew Bolton, the dedicated curator at The Costume Institute within New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, who carefully selects something culturally significant as the theme.

He shared with Vogue that his goal is to focus on topics that are currently relevant and signify a cultural transformation or upcoming change. The team aims to maintain a diverse selection of shows, moving between past and present subjects, as well as thematic and monographic ones dedicated to a single designer. They strive for a balanced mix.

Once he has made a decision on what he is looking for, he submits this choice to the museum’s director for their approval. About a year in advance, Wintour gives his final approval on it.

The respected curator from Britain clarified that achieving the task without Anna’s support would be challenging. Anna helps identify suitable backers for the exhibition. At times, I might come up with an idea that isn’t particularly grand or trendy, which can be less attractive to potential sponsors.

After stepping on the red carpet and overcoming its famous steps, the guests will meet Anna Wintour and other hosts (the 2024 class features Bad Bunny, Zendaya, Chris Hemsworth, and Jennifer Lopez). This usually takes some time as they exchange greetings with air kisses and pleasantries.

Later on, they will be welcomed for a tour of The Costume Institute’s exhibition prior to its public opening. Afterward, there will be an opportunity for dining, socializing, and networking, featuring music, dancing, and performances by artists such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga.

Regarding the well-known artists, a significant portion of the pressure when organizing the Met Gala comes from arranging the evening’s entertainment.

In the well-known account provided in “The First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett encountered a significant financial predicament while trying to secure Rihanna for that year’s gala event.

She stated that Rihanna’s yet-to-be-disclosed payment is roughly double what we’ve ever paid any artist before, following her discussion with someone from the superstar’s camp. It appears they are unwilling to negotiate and lower the fee any more.

Eventually, Wintour was called to step in and figure out the situation.

At the event, celebrities can also have their personal security personnel present, alongside the security staff provided by the museum for the red carpet.

Indeed, it is the valuables, particularly the jewels, that demand the greatest level of protection. One time, Blake Lively adorned herself with jewelry valued at $3.5 million, whereas Karlie Kloss once donned a staggering $2.5 million worth of Forevermark jewels for an event.

A Forevermark representative informed TopMob News that the complete security protocol remains strictly confidential due to the immense worth of the items at stake. However, a security officer is always on duty until the items are securely retrieved. Furthermore, advanced security methods such as RFID tracking and video surveillance are employed for additional protection.

So yes, Ocean’s 8 definitely got that aspect of the Met Gala right.

At the Met Gala, most dresses are custom-made or taken from a designer’s archive, making it uncommon for celebrities to retain these gowns. Typically, they return the dresses to the design house to be stored in their archives.

In 2018, I was part of a unique collaboration between Olivier Rousteing and Bono’s RED organization. We auctioned off custom Balmain pieces that had been worn by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, and Trevor Noah. The best part? All the earnings from this event were donated to the Global Fund, which supports the work of RED’s foundation. It was a privilege to be involved in such a significant initiative.

At the 2021 event, it was mandatory for attendees to don face masks and show evidence of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This safety measure resulted in rapper Nicki Minaj deciding not to be a part of the stylish celebrations.

On Twitter, Minaj stated that she doesn’t intend to get vaccinated for an event called ‘The Met’. Instead, she plans to conduct further research before deciding. In the meantime, she advises everyone to stay safe and use a mask with two straps that fits both head and face snugly, not the loose one.

2025-02-04 19:57

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