Fashion’s biggest night is back! The 2025 Met Gala, taking place on the first Monday in May, returns on May 5, 2025, at The New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity and promises to spotlight the history, artistry, and political power of Black dandyism in fashion. Every year the gala raises funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute.
What’s the 2025 Met Gala Theme?
The theme for the Met Gala this year is “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, which examines Black style over three hundred years through the concept of dandyism — an era of flamboyant, sophisticated, and exquisitely tailored fashion, paired with the free-spirited charm of the dandy lifestyle.
Dandyism is more than just a style— it’s a cultural movement that celebrates individuality, elegance, and an unapologetic approach to fashion. The term Dandy first arose in the early 18th century as a term to describe middle-class men who loved the finer things in life, including social events, fine foods and wines, and luxuries like expensive clothes and interior decor. It was a word that became associated with the creation of custom clothing as Dandys tended to wear bespoke clothing made specifically to flatter them. Dandyism was epitomized by figures like Beau Brummell, who defined men’s fashion with their sharp, tailored suits, impeccable manners, and a flair for the dramatic.
For the 2025 Met Gala, the theme draws inspiration from the dandy lifestyle, which places a focus on sartorial excellence, personal style, and a certain theatricality. Think tailored suits with oversized bows, crisp shirts with extravagant cuffs, flamboyant waistcoats, and even top hats and walking sticks. The focus is on elegance with a dash of rebellion—showing off one’s character through impeccable, often unconventional, fashion choices.
Expect to see classic menswear mixed with bold, avant-garde elements on the red staircase of the Met. Femininity and masculinity will likely blur, as today’s designers embrace the playful spirit of dandyism while challenging traditional gender norms in fashion.
Who’s Hosting?
This year’s co-chairs are Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, with LeBron James as honorary chair. The host committee includes Janelle Monáe, André 3000, Dapper Dan, and more – all icons known for redefining menswear and championing Black creativity.
Dress Code: “Tailored for You”
The official dress code, “Tailored for You,” invites guests to embrace bespoke tailoring and personal flair. Expect a red carpet filled with exquisitely cut suits, flamboyant cravats, and unexpected silhouettes that challenge tradition.
Vogue provides more guidance on the theme in an article, explaining: ‘Tailored for You’ can be interpreted in a myriad of ways, but it mostly means embracing looks reflective of one’s personal style.
When and Where to Watch
The Met Gala red carpet is famously exclusive, but fans can catch the action live:
- Vogue’s Official Livestream: Vogue will stream the red carpet arrivals live on their website and YouTube channel starting the evening of May 5.
- E! News Coverage: E! typically provides red carpet commentary and highlights.
- Met Museum’s Official Channels: The Met’s website and social media will share behind-the-scenes and exhibition content.
Why This Year Matters
According to Monica Miller, “Dandyism could be defined as ‘dressing wisely and well.’ It’s a strategy and a tool to rethink identity, to reimagine the self in a different context.”
This year “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” is more than a fashion spectacle – it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the ongoing influence of Black style on global culture. The exhibition opens to the public May 10 through October 26, 2025, at The Met’s Costume Institute.