Met Gala 2025 Theme Revealed: See Which Stars Will Wow With Tailored Looks

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The red carpet is being rolled out for the biggest night in fashion.

2025’s Met Gala is eagerly anticipated by celebrities such as Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and Timothée Chalamet, who are busy getting ready to make a stunning appearance on May 5. They will then grace the famous steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art with their poses.

In relation to the stars who will attend, Vogue and the Met have revealed the dress code for the event as “Custom-Fitted,” a fitting choice given it aligns with the Spring 2025 Costume Institute exhibition titled “Superb Craftsmanship: The Art of Black Tailoring.

Although the primary theme of the annual exhibition centers around menswear and the 18th-century “Black dandy” aesthetic, the museum has intentionally set the dress code for the gala as a guide, encouraging attendees to express their creativity.

This season’s event is looking promising, with a committee composed of distinguished taste-makers such as Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, and the editor-in-chief of Vogue, Anna Wintour, along with LeBron James serving as an honorary chair.

A fashion savant, Colman has promised he is ready to serve with his ensemble.

On TopMob News’ The Rundown last month, he shared his excitement, saying, “It will be stunning! We’ve just finished our designs, and I believe it’s going to have a truly impressive appearance. I can hint that I’m tinkering with history in some way. That’s as much as I’m allowed to share.

In a focus on customization, the celebrity from Sing Sing revealed that it required six different drafts to create his ideal fit design.

He went on to explain that we collaborated on editorial choices. We kept aspects we were particularly fond of, while also challenging boundaries in others. The result, he believed, would resonate strongly with him, be perfectly aligned, and showcase exceptional craftsmanship in tailoring.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about the event’s theme, dress code and more.

What Is the Dress Code for the Met Gala 2025?

As a die-hard enthusiast, I simply can’t contain my excitement for the upcoming gala! The dress code, “Tailored For You,” aligns perfectly with the Costume Institute’s exhibition, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” This is going to be an event like no other, where each of us will have a unique opportunity to showcase our personal style through tailored attire that resonates deeply with the rich history and evolution of black fashion. I can hardly wait!

In the spring of 2025, celebrities will draw inspiration from the elegant style of 18th-century Black dandyism for their menswear. This means we can expect to see a lot of tailored outfits, including overcoats, top hats, and ties, as a tribute to that exhibit.

As with each passing year, it’s customary that the attendees express their individuality by styling their outfits uniquely, catering to their personal preferences.

The museum highlighted that the dress code was intentionally created to offer advice and encourage creative understanding.

What Is the Theme for the Met Gala 2025?

As a lifestyle aficionado, let me share an exciting update I recently came across. Back in February, I learned that the upcoming spring exhibit of 2025 at the esteemed institution will be titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Mark your calendars, as it’s set to grace the hallowed halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City from May 10th through Oct. 26th. I can hardly wait!

The museum shared details about an upcoming exhibit, which will delve into the cultural and historical perspective on “the evolution of Black fashion over 300 years, focusing on the concept of dandyism.” The exhibit will also highlight the significant role that style has played in shaping Black identities within the Atlantic diaspora, emphasizing its impact in the United States and Europe.

Revised: The refined fashion guide titled “Black Style: Inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book ‘Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Expression of Black Diasporic Identity'” will be organized into 12 distinct sections, each representing unique facets of style such as Champion, Respectability, Heritage, Beauty, and Cosmopolitanism.

What Is the Theme for the Met Gala 2025?

In February, it was announced that the institute’s Spring 2025 exhibition, titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is set to run from May 10th to October 26th at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

This museum display is going to illustrate a comprehensive exploration of African American culture and history, focusing on the fashion trend known as ‘dandyism’, spanning over 300 years. It will also highlight the significant role that style has played in shaping Black identities across the Atlantic diaspora, with special emphasis on the United States and Europe.

Superbly refined: Tailoring Elegance with a Black Aesthetic — drawing inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Expression of Black Diasporic Identity” — will be organized into twelve distinct segments, each representing various facets of style such as Pioneer, Respectability, Ancestry, Attractiveness, and Global Citizen.

Who Are the Met Gala 2025 Co-Chairs?

This year, Anna Wintour, the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, is joined by a group of esteemed celebrities who have been chosen to serve as co-chairs. Among these notable figures are Black fashion icons Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, and LeBron James, who will take on the role of an honorary chair.

During the evening, there’s a strong focus on fashion, but it also highlights racial issues. In fact, Pharrell, who not only excels in music but is also the Men’s creative director for Louis Vuitton, recently stated to Vogue that his aim for this event, described as “the most epic night of power,” mirrors the resilience of Black communities amidst a world that remains colonized, referring to policies and laws that are essentially colonial in nature.

He emphasized the significance of having diverse individuals from various fields such as authors, architects, and fintech professionals, in addition to athletes, actors, and entertainers within a group. It’s crucial, he explained, to support and collaborate with each other because combining the collective intelligence of Black and brown communities will create a powerful and dependable force for change.

Who Are the Met Gala 2025 Co-Chairs?

Apart from Anna Wintour, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue, a distinguished set of celebrities will serve as co-chairs this year. Among them are Black fashion influencers such as Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, and LeBron James, who have been appointed as honorary chairs.

During the evening’s celebration of fashion, there’s also a strong emphasis on racial identity. Pharrell, who’s not only renowned for his music but also serves as Men’s creative director at Louis Vuitton, recently shared with Vogue that this event aims to be an extraordinary night of influence. He explained that this “epic night of power” is a symbol of Black resilience in a world that remains colonized – referring to policies and laws that are essentially colonial in nature.

He emphasized the significance of having a diverse group of successful Black and brown individuals from various fields, including authors, architects, and those in the fintech industry, present. “It’s crucial that we support each other,” he added. “We need to build connections because it will take everyone working together to harness the collective power of Black and brown intelligence into a powerful, dependable force.

Who Should We Keep an Eye On At the Met Gala 2025?

At the red carpet events, many celebrities shine brightly. However, some stars have demonstrated a knack for staying ahead of fashion trends. For example, Rihanna was an artistic masterpiece in her Maison Margiela silver beaded gown and bishop’s hat at the 2018 gala, Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination.

Last year’s gala co-chair, Zendaya, has consistently grasped the task at hand. For the 2024 theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” the actress from Euphoria made quite an impression in her royal blue and green organza dress, complete with a matching elaborate headdress.

Additionally, stars like Ariana Grande, Tyla, Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and Iman will also be gracing the red carpet.

As we anticipate the arrival of the celestial bodies at the 2025 Met Gala, delve into these fascinating revelations instead.

Who Should We Keep an Eye On At the Met Gala 2025?

As a lifestyle expert, I’d say: It’s no secret that every star shines brightly on the red carpet, but some truly embody fashion forward-thinking. Take Rihanna, for example, at the 2018 gala, Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination. She was nothing short of a living masterpiece in her Maison Margiela silver beaded gown and bishop’s hat – truly setting the bar for fashion innovation.

Last year’s gala co-chair, Zendaya, has consistently grasped the event’s requirements. For the 2024 theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” the actress from Euphoria made quite an impression in a royal blue and green organza dress adorned with a matching elaborate headpiece.

Additionally, you should keep an eye out for Ariana Grande, Tyla, Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and Iman gracing the red carpet.

As we anticipate the arrival of the stars at the 2025 Met Gala, here are some intriguing facts you might not know.

In the meantime, before the stars make their grand entrance at the 2025 Met Gala, let’s delve into some fascinating tidbits.

As a seasoned lifestyle connoisseur, I must share with you a fascinating tidbit about an annual extravaganza in the fashion world. Should fortune smile upon you and secure an invitation to this grand affair, be prepared to part with a significant sum. A single ticket will set you back by $30,000, while a table for your entourage is priced at a staggering $275,000. Quite the investment, isn’t it?

Luckily, not everyone needs to pay for admission, since Anna Wintour often extends invitations to emerging designers at the gala. Additionally, the celebrities who are invited specifically to showcase a designer’s work on the red carpet typically do not have to cover the cost either.

Even with its high price, it still doesn’t stop the fashionable crowd from wanting it – there’s actually a waiting list for it.

Cameron Silver, a vintage store owner who has been to the event multiple times, shared with Page Six in 2017 that there are people who are aware of society names but haven’t secured a ticket. These individuals stand by, prepared to attend if a last-minute seat opens up at the event, even though they might not know for certain whether they will have a seat until just days before the event, and they already have their outfits ready.

The size can fluctuate, and a gathering of around 500 people is often seen as intimate and snug, while an event with over 800 attendees, which marks the highest attendance the Met Gala has ever recorded, is considered excessively large.

Sylvana Ward Durrett from Vogue shared with Fast Company in 2017 that they aim to make the experience feel more intimate for their guests. To achieve this, they’ve significantly reduced the number of attendees over the past few years, cutting it down by nearly 200-300 people.

Although it’s known for its lavishness and glamour, the organizers aim to create an exclusive atmosphere for the fortunate attendees, limiting the guest list to around 500. As Ward Durrett was heard saying in “The First Monday in May”, they strive to maintain an intimate setting, which is the reason people attend this event.

Just because a celebrity is invited, it doesn’t guarantee that their significant other gets an automatic invitation as well. Instead, the partner should receive an invite on their own merit.

After the first Monday in May, there’s no time for relaxation for fashion enthusiasts because preparations for the event typically begin the very next day, which is Tuesday. It’s worth noting that around 100 people work on this event all year round, with approximately 10 full-time employees from Vogue magazine among them.

According to Ward Durrett, who was the director of special projects at Vogue at the time, she was a strong advocate for using a one-page summary. She stated that they had an ongoing task list which grew longer as deadlines approached. Remarkably, they would go through this list every day, even if some tasks were repetitive.

The initial item on her list is a tent. By detailing all the aspects connected with it, she can effectively visualize the entire event from its inception to conclusion, ensuring no essential details are overlooked.

In terms of Wintour’s level of detail-orientedness, Andre Leon Talley, a former contributing editor at Vogue, stated in the film “The First Monday in May” that Anna pays close attention to every minor aspect, including the table napkins, cutlery, lighting, flower arrangements, usher attire, and more. Her focus on detail is meticulous and extends over months and weeks, if not longer.

She tends to maintain the specifics about her renowned Chanel gown hidden, as Plum Sykes, a contributing editor at Vogue, shared with The New York Post that “It’s rather mysterious. [Wintour] doesn’t want others to know her plans or activities until the very moment she steps onto the red carpet and walks through the door.

As a lifestyle expert, I can tell you from personal experience that crafting seating arrangements for a wedding might just give you a sneak peek into the Herculean task it is to design the seating chart for an event as prestigious as the Met Gala. This intricate detail is one of the most crucial elements that consumes a significant amount of time and thought from the organizing team, who meticulously place guests based on shared interests and connections, ensuring a harmonious and engaging atmosphere throughout the evening.

In the film “The First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett expressed that deciding who sits next to whom involves a great deal of careful consideration, taking into account whether they sat together last year and if they’ve previously been seated together at other events. The process is extensive to the point of being surprising, he referred to it as “power-brokering”.

Indeed, every year, the seating layout evolves significantly as the event unfolds, with Ward Durett sharing her experience of opting for Velcro instead of post-it notes to minimize mistakes. As she put it, “The seating chart has gone through numerous revisions. Initially, we only had small sticky notes, and it was a chaotic scene – things kept falling off, people were getting lost, and names were constantly being rewritten countless times a day.

Color-coding is employed, often adhering to a woman-man-woman-man arrangement when feasible according to Ward Durrett. A surprising rule that might catch you off guard: it’s best not to seat spouses near each other. The main purpose of these events is to interact with new individuals and learn about their activities. If you’re here to socialize with your spouse, what’s the point? I’m afraid this means Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, among others, won’t be seated together!

At many events, there’s a seating area often found close to the kitchen or restrooms that gets the best views, but at a high price. The Met Gala is no different; the designer’s tables tend to be rearranged annually due to their prime locations.

In the process, Anna Wintour is known for not holding back, even going so far as to reprimand her team when they attempted to conceal a H&M table in the film “The First Monday in May“. “We mustn’t hide this table,” she stated firmly, adding “truly, that’s not right.

On the grand night of fashion, even though they aren’t luxury labels or exclusive ateliers, brands like H&M (which is seen in Vogue and other magazines), Topshop, and Zara are gaining more visibility. H&M made a significant impact in 2015 by choosing Sarah Jessica Parker to wear a custom-made dress of theirs.

At such high-profile events, it’s quite common to find former partners and friends with complex relationships sitting together. For instance, remember when Selena Gomez and The Weeknd were both present, alongside his ex Bella Hadid? Therefore, in intense situations like Taylor Swift and Katy Perry’s feud, seating arrangements might consider keeping them apart during their height of animosity. However, the grandeur of the event often overrides such potential tensions among attendees.

In essence, Ward Durrett stated, “It’s impossible to satisfy everyone. We strive to believe that there isn’t a single subpar spot in our setting, which is true. You should leave feeling assured that you’re giving your all, knowing that it won’t make everyone content. However, we have a strong history of success. Occasions where people aren’t pleased are rare, and when they do occur, we make an effort to communicate better the following year to align expectations.

In a notable moment from the film “First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett strategically positioned three tabs with Velcro next to her seating chart, hinting directly at Anna Wintour, “These are individuals I would like to see leave.

In my line of work as a lifestyle advisor, I’ve come to understand that not everyone is content with their designated spots, much like what fashion critic Cathy Horn highlighted in her 2006 article for The New York Times. She mentioned an instance involving John Lydon, the ex-Sex Pistol famously known as Johnny Rotten. Despite being assigned the last seat at a long table, arguably one of the least favorable positions in the carefully planned seating arrangement, his visible displeasure was evident. In fact, he walked out twice, venting his frustration towards museum staff members.

He eventually took his seat.

Back in 2018, during an appearance on The Late Late Show, I, as a star-struck admirer, found myself listening intently as the charismatic James Corden grilled none other than the legendary Anna Wintour. Intrigued by his question, she revealed that there was indeed a celebrity she’d never extend another Met Gala invitation to – if only I could remember who it was!

As a lifestyle aficionado looking back, I’ve observed that Donald Trump, along with his partner Melania, have graced the Met Gala red carpet on numerous occasions throughout the years. However, it’s been seven years since they last made their grand entrance up those iconic steps, which was all the way back in 2012.

It seems another famous figure, Tim Gunn from ‘Project Runway’, alleges he’s been shunned from the Met Gala following an incident where he shared an account about Anna Wintour that didn’t flatter her with The Post, leading to a supposed blacklisting by her.

In simpler terms, he stated on the show Fashion Police at TopMob in 2016 that it was chaotic and wild beyond belief, and since then, there has been a continuous, unresolved conflict between us.

Indeed, a meal is indeed provided during the event itself. Notably, Stephen Colbert disclosed that all attendees were required to await Anna Wintour taking her place before they could start eating.

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 which might lodge between teeth (such as parsley), cause bad breath (like excessive garlic), or stain clothing the most (especially garments worn by guests). As a result, appetizers are designed to be effortlessly consumed.

Typically, Wintour likes the served food to align with the chosen theme. However, it doesn’t always go as planned.

Sean Driscoll, proprietor of Glorious Food, shared that the choice to serve lamb potpies during the 2011 Met Gala themed after “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” led to a high number of unique requests. This was because several attendees expressed disinterest in consuming the dish.

Apart from desiring the taste, they also value the aesthetics of the food. As revealed by director Andrew Rossi, this was evident even during his tasting experience with Wintour, where he noticed that she would scrutinize the presentation of various dishes on her phone, confirming details for perfection.

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 this stylish, FOMO-triggering event. However, it was Anna Wintour who enforced this rule back in 2015.

During that period, a reliable source from Vogue informed Pret-a-Reporter that a notice was sent to everyone invited, cautioning them, “Taking photos with phones or sharing on social media will not be allowed during the gala.

The magazine chose not to offer any statements regarding the report. However, according to a source who spoke to The Hollywood Reporter at that time, “The reason is entirely focused on ensuring the safety and pleasure of the attendees at the event.

It was evident that Wintour strongly disliked phones at the event, as shown in a standout scene from The First Monday in May. Here, she expressed her frustration when she found out that a well-known male celebrity (whose name was intentionally left unmentioned by Wintour) chose to attend the event despite initially declining. She questioned Ward Durrett, “Couldn’t he stay off his phone during the entire event instead?

In an interview with The Post, Ward Durrett stated that Anna is somewhat conventional and enjoys social events where people interact face-to-face. At these gatherings, she doesn’t prefer to be intrusive, but may subtly suggest correct etiquette if necessary.

Even though Anna Wintour has imposed a strict no-selfies policy, it seems that star-struck celebrities can’t resist the temptation to break the rule, as evident in Kylie Jenner’s daring bathroom selfie from her 2017 escapade. I, being an ardent fan, can’t help but admire their audacity!

To put it simply, the rule is that you need to be at least 18 years old to participate in the grand event. This age requirement was made clear for the 2018 Met Gala following Maddie Ziegler’s disclosure that she couldn’t go because she was only 15. In her own words, reported by The Hollywood Reporter, she said, “I can’t attend as I’m not old enough yet!

The event’s organizer informed THR that the gathering was not suitable for individuals below 18 years old, as a fresh age restriction was implemented that year.

Before 2018, notable young attendees included siblings Jaden Smith and Willow Smith, who attended in 2016 when they were 17 and 15 respectively, Elle Fanning making her first appearance at the event at the tender age of 13, and Hailee Steinfeld attending for the first time in 2011, just 14 years old.

However, it appears that there is an exception for the stylish youngsters in the entertainment industry: Minors can accompany their parents.

Although Wintour ultimately decides everyone’s outfit choice, these outfits don’t necessarily require her formal approval (however, she remains informed about every ensemble seen on the renowned red carpet).

In “The First Monday in May,” Andre Leon Talley stated that each celebrity is given a gown by a designer, much like assignments. As Riccardo Tisci, the former Givenchy creative director who dressed Beyoncé and Madonna for the 2016 Met Gala, added, “Each designer has their own muse. You choose a person that best embodies your vision.

In other words, generally speaking, the appearance of a celebrity at an event is largely determined by the fashion designer who extended the invitation to them.

Every year, the theme for our gala is unique – this year’s being “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” while last year was “Camp: Notes on Fashion. However, there are no set rules governing how a guest or designer chooses to interpret these themes.

However, you might be wondering how the theme for each exhibition is decided. This process begins more than a year prior to the first Monday in May. It’s Andrew Bolton, the dedicated curator of The Costume Institute at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, who selects a theme that resonates culturally.

He shared with Vogue that his aim is to focus on topics that appear relevant and mark a cultural transition, either currently in progress or upcoming. The team consistently strives for a diverse selection of shows, moving between subjects from different eras, combining thematic exhibitions with those dedicated to a single designer. In essence, they aim to keep things interesting by constantly switching up the content.

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

The respected British curator pointed out that it would be challenging to accomplish the task without Anna’s backing, as she skillfully identifies suitable sponsors for the exhibition. Occasionally, I have an idea that might not be a grand or widely-liked concept, making it less enticing to potential sponsors.

After strolling down the red carpet and conquering the well-known stairs, guests will meet up with Anna Wintour and other hosts (this year’s stars include Bad Bunny, Zendaya, Chris Hemsworth, and Jennifer Lopez). This is typically done in a receiving line where there’s lots of air kissing and friendly conversation that can take quite a while.

Following that, they will be welcomed to explore The Costume Institute’s exhibition before it becomes accessible to the general public. Afterward, there will be an opportunity for dining, socializing, and professional networking, complete with music, dancing, and stage performances by artists such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga.

When it comes to the big-name artists, a significant portion of the pressure when organizing the Met Gala comes from arranging an entertaining evening for them.

In the well-known film “The First Monday in May“, Ward Durrett encountered a significant financial dilemma trying to secure Rihanna’s attendance at the annual gala.

She mentioned that Rihanna’s unspecified payment is roughly double what we’ve ever paid any artist before, following a phone call with her management team. They seem unwilling to negotiate a lower figure.

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

At the event, celebrities can also have their personal security personnel present, along with the security staff provided by the museum specifically for the red-carpet occasion.

Indeed, it’s the items that demand the most protective measures that are typically the jewels. In one instance last year, Blake Lively donned jewelry valued at a staggering $3.5 million, and Karlie Kloss was adorned with an equally impressive $2.5 million worth of Forevermark jewels for another event.

A Forevermark representative shared with TopMob News that due to the extremely high worth of the items being handled, every detail of the comprehensive safety protocol is strictly confidential. However, a security personnel is consistently stationed there until the items are securely returned. Furthermore, they implement additional protective methods such as RFID tracking systems and video surveillance for enhanced protection.

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

Since most dresses worn at the Met Gala are custom-made by designers or taken from their high-end collections, it’s uncommon for celebrities to get to keep these gowns. Instead, they usually return them to the designer’s archive.

In 2018, Olivier Rousteing from Balmain collaborated with Bono’s RED organization to auction off unique items previously worn by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, and Trevor Noah. The entirety of the proceeds from this auction was donated to the Global Fund supported by the foundation.

At the 2021 event, participants had to don face masks and show evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination, causing rapper Nicki Minaj to opt out of the stylish celebrations.

Minaj tweeted that they recommend getting vaccinated for the Met, but she won’t do it unless she has conducted thorough research. She’s currently working on gathering more information. In the meantime, stay safe and wear a snug-fitting mask with two strings to protect both your head and face.

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2025-05-05 10:42