Some looked to fashion history and cultural figures for inspiration. Others focused on fit, material, and subtle design choices to interpret the theme in their own way.
This year’s Met Gala spotlighted Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, a theme rooted in the history and influence of Black menswear. Inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion, the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition explores how tailoring has long served as a form of expression and resistance in Black communities dating back to the 18th century and continuing through today.
The exhibition is structured around twelve ideas drawn from Zora Neale Hurston’s 1934 essay “The Characteristics of Negro Expression.” Using garments, photography, paintings, and film, the exhibition traces how Black identity has been constructed and communicated through dress, particularly through suiting.
With the dress code titled Tailored for You, guests were encouraged to bring a personal take on the theme. Some looked to fashion history and cultural figures for inspiration. Others focused on fit, material, or subtle design choices to interpret them in their own way.
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Here are the stars that caught our attention
Zendaya in custom Louis Vuitton seemed to be referencing Diana Ross’ look in Mahogany, she also happened to walk the red carpet right after Diana Ross who wowed us in Ugo Mozie.
Gigi Hadid wore a gold crystal-covered Miu Miu gown. Her look is a nod to Josephine Baker and Zelda Wynn Valdes, two figures who helped define Black glamour. FKA Twigs, wearing Wales Bonner, also took inspiration from Josephine Baker, with a modern spin on her iconic performance looks.
Doechii, also in Louis Vuitton, wore an ivory blazer, wide shorts, a bow, and T-bar shoes. The styling seemed to be a subtle nod to André Leon Talley, the late Vogue editor known for his distinct interpretation of dandyism.
Janelle Monáe, in Thom Browne, came dressed as a character which she calls a “time-traveling dandy.” The look combined structure and her signature storytelling in every Met Gala red carpet.
Laura Harrier wore Gap Studio, designed by Zac Posen. Her outfit was based on family photos and Sunday church outfits, tying personal history into the night’s theme.
Jenna Ortega’s Balmain ensemble used a tailor’s measuring tape as inspiration, which directly references the craft of suit-making, while Monica Barbaro wore a Christian Dior white tuxedo over a black tulle skirt.
Jennie Kim kept it classic in custom Chanel, her look is like plucked straight out of Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Fashionably late, Rihanna wore a Marc Jacobs look that drew attention to her baby bump which she also debuted at the Met (yes, queen!).
Jeff Goldblum wore a sharp, understated suit from Wales Bonner, finished with a bow tie. The standout part of his look was a long overcoat worn over the shoulders, featuring a fur-lined collar and detailed brooches.
S.Coups of Korean boy group SEVENTEEN wears BOSS inspired by the traditional Korean hanbok. His look combined layered pleats with a wrap jacket, all in shades of grey. While the cultural reference was different from the show’s focus, it still fit the overall theme: using tailoring to show personal style and cultural roots.
Hunter Schafer stunned in Prada with a look that is focused on clean tailoring and cut. Co-chair Colman Domingo wore Valentino. He worked with Monica L. Miller on references for his look, aligning it with the theme’s historical and cultural framework.
This year’s red carpet centered tailoring as both form and meaning. Many looks reflected different interpretations of the theme, from direct tributes to broader gestures in fit and detail. It also showed how tailoring, in all its forms, continues to be a powerful tool for personal and cultural expression.
