The 2025 Met Gala was nothing short of spectacular, and I’m not going to lie, what really had me completely hooked were the 10 Black women who absolutely brought the heat that night. Each one of them came through with a look that wasn’t just about fashion; it was about making a statement, owning the moment, and embodying the theme in ways that were both powerful and personal.
From couture masterpieces to bold, statement-making pieces, these women didn’t just show up, they defined the Met Gala night. Their looks told stories of heritage, innovation, and pure creativity. I was in awe of how they took the theme and made it their own, channeling their individuality while still paying homage to the artistry around them.
It wasn’t just fashion, it was a celebration of who they are and what they represent. These 10 Black women didn’t just attend the Met Gala; they shaped it, and I’m still thinking about the impact they had on that night. Let’s take a moment to revisit their unforgettable looks that had me (and everyone else) absolutely mesmerized.
I was totally blown away by Teyana Taylor’s look at the 2025 MET Gala. Like, completely floored. From the moment I saw her on that red carpet, I knew she wasn’t just wearing an outfit; she was telling a story. And not just any story, her story. Harlem, Black pride, fashion history, musical legacy, she packed it all into one jaw-dropping ensemble.
She wore this stunning oxblood pinstripe zoot suit that immediately gave Harlem Renaissance energy. You know the kind of vibe Cab Calloway and all those slick, stylish jazz legends used to exude? That’s exactly what Teyana channeled, but with her own fierce, modern twist. The look was a collaboration between her, Marc Jacobs, and Ruth E. Carter, yes, the Ruth E. Carter, the genius behind the costume design for Black Panther.
So you already know it was going to be iconic. The details? Insane. Under the suit, she had on a deep red velvet waistcoat with silver chains cascading across it; so luxurious and dramatic. And then came the cape. My God, that cape. It was padded, oversized, and looked like it was straight out of a graphic novel about a Harlem superhero. Embroidered across the back in bold lettering was “Harlem Rose”; a beautiful nod to her song Rose in Harlem and a powerful tribute to where she’s from.And if that wasn’t enough symbolism, there were satin roses growing out of black crystallized vines trailing across the cape, like beauty blossoming from struggle. That imagery? It hit me right in the chest. And the accessories? She ate. Burgundy top hat with a huge feather, a matching durag peeking out underneath (which I loved, because why should a durag be hidden?), red leather gloves, a walking stick, and the most stunning red and black gemstone jewelry from David Yurman.
Every single piece added to the character she was embodying, this unapologetic, stylish, powerful Harlem rose who came to school everyone on the MET carpet. Honestly, Cosmopolitan naming her best dressed? No lies detected. She understood the theme, she honored her roots, and she delivered fashion with meaning. I couldn’t stop staring. That wasn’t just a red carpet look, that was performance art. That was culture. That was Teyana Taylor reminding us all who the hell she is.
Another look that left me absolutely captivated was Gabrielle Union’s look at the 2025 MET Gala. From the moment she stepped onto that red carpet, it was clear she understood the assignment, and then took it ten levels higher. She looked like she had walked straight out of a modern fairytale, but with that signature Gabrielle edge that always keeps things fresh and powerful. She wore a custom Prada creation that was just… breathtaking.
The main dress was a sleek, strapless black gown, simple at first glance, but the drama was in the details. Flowing from the back was this bold white floral train that looked like it was blooming behind her with every step. It gave the look so much depth and romance while still feeling structured and tailored. It was like softness and strength having a fashion love affair.And then there was the headpiece. A white floral arrangement nestled perfectly in her slicked-back hair, giving that 1940s screen siren vibe but modernized for 2025. It pulled the whole look together so beautifully. Her glam team really did her justice, everything from her glowing skin to her understated makeup just let the outfit speak loudly. Of course, Dwyane Wade was right beside her, looking just as sharp in a white Prada tailcoat and jeweled waistcoat that matched her vibe without stealing the show.
They looked so in sync, like a walking editorial. I honestly couldn’t stop staring. But here’s where Gabrielle really showed us who she is: the after-party. She switched things up completely and gave us a whole different mood. That second look? Whew. A fully sheer black lace dress that hugged her body like it was sewn onto her.
It had a plunging neckline and intricate floral detailing that gave it that sensual, high-fashion edge. It was bold, sexy, and completely fearless; just like Gabrielle herself. She wore it like someone who knows exactly who she is and isn’t afraid to let the world see it. What I love most is how she gave us two totally different looks in one night—soft and romantic for the carpet, then bold and provocative for the after-party. It was such a powerful fashion narrative.Lizzo absolutely lit up the 2025 MET Gala red carpet, and I mean that in every sense. The moment I saw her, I knew she was about to serve a look that was bigger than fashion. It was presence. It was power. It was Lizzo doing what Lizzo does best: commanding the room with style, intention, and a whole lot of attitude. She stepped out in a custom Christian Siriano gown that was equal parts elegant and dramatic.
The black corset bodice was structured to perfection, cinching her waist and highlighting her curves in the most flattering way. And then came the drama—a sweeping white fishtail skirt that flowed like poetry behind her, giving that high-impact silhouette we live for on Met night. Draped over her shoulders was a crisp, cropped white blazer that tied the whole look back to the gala’s theme: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.”
She looked like a walking sculpture, every angle, every detail, thought out and deliberate. And listen, the glam? Out of this world. Lizzo rocked a platinum blonde shoulder-length wig styled in soft, retro waves. It gave me classic Hollywood, but with that edgy twist that only she could pull off. Her makeup was dark, smoky, and seductive, heavy eyeliner, contoured cheekbones, and a deep lip that had her looking like a true femme fatale.
She topped it all off with silver jewelry and a cheeky black cigarette holder that felt like a wink to old-school elegance with a Lizzo twist. But what really made the look hit different for me was knowing where she’s at in her journey. She called it a “weight release,” and it wasn’t about the number on a scale; it was about letting go of expectations, reclaiming her joy, and walking into the Met Gala with her head high and her spirit higher. That night, Lizzo didn’t just dress up. She showed up for herself. And you could feel that energy radiating off her. She turned the carpet into her runway, her stage, her moment. And she looked phenomenal doing it.
Janelle Monae absolutely blew me away at the 2025 MET Gala. Like, I already expect her to show up and make a statement, but this year? She didn’t just wear a look. She became the look. She brought a whole character to life and gave us performance, imagination, and elegance all wrapped into one unforgettable moment.
She showed up as “Jane the Time Traveler”—yes, she named her look, and it was one of the most creative interpretations of the theme I saw all night. She worked with Thom Browne and Paul Tazewell (the Oscar-winning costume designer behind Hamilton and West Side Story) to build an outfit that told a story from the second she hit Met Gala carpet. Her first layer was this oversized black cape that played with illusion, it had this trompe l’oeil embroidery that made it look like she was wearing a full-on pinstriped suit, complete with a tie and briefcase stitched into the design.It was so surreal and campy in the best way. But then she did the reveal, and I nearly screamed. Underneath the cape was a fully deconstructed skirt suit, turned inside out, with red and black-and-white pinstripes and exposed stitching everywhere. It was like she was inviting us to see the inner workings of fashion itself. It felt raw, intentional, and beautifully chaotic.
And let’s talk about the accessories, because Janelle never misses a detail. She had on a black bowler hat that gave me old-school dandy energy, and over one eye? A moving, motorized clock monocle. It was the most stylish, steampunk thing I’ve ever seen. She looked like a time-traveling fashion professor who knew all the secrets of the universe. I was obsessed. Then there was this brooch, literally a 5.5-carat diamond made from tequila. I’m not even joking.
A diamond created from 1800 Tequila. She wore it like a little science experiment turned couture jewelry. Only Janelle would think to include that and make it feel poetic; a symbol of transformation and reinvention. But what got me the most was the storytelling. Janelle doesn’t just wear fashion, she inhabits it. She turns the Met Gala into her stage every single year, and this time she gave us time travel, Afrofuturism, tailoring, surrealism, and a full cinematic narrative, in one look. She was elegant, experimental, political, and playful all at once. Nobody does it like her. Nobody even comes close.
Zendaya absolutely slayed the 2025 MET Gala again, as always. And I mean that in every sense. She didn’t just show up, she arrived, owning the red carpet with a look that was both timeless and daring. When I saw her step out in that custom white three-piece zoot suit by Louis Vuitton, designed by Pharrell Williams, I knew we were about to get something special.
She was channeling Bianca Jagger from the ’70s, but with that modern Zendaya twist that only she can pull off. The tailoring was on another level, so sleek, so elegant, it felt like it was made just for her. The suit hugged her body in all the right places, and those accessories? A wide-brimmed white hat and a sparkling brooch. Simple but elevated. I love how she kept her makeup understated, letting the outfit speak for itself.This is how you do sophisticated, no gimmicks, just pure style. But then—oh, she took it to a whole new level. For the after-party, she gave us old Hollywood glamour in a red feathered gown by Patrick Kelly. This look was everything. It wasn’t just a nod to the theme; it was a celebration of it. Zendaya’s decision to wear a gown by the first Black American designer admitted to the Chambre Syndicale du Prêt-à-Porter in Paris was the perfect statement of honoring Black culture, innovation, and style.
It felt like a love letter to Black designers, and Zendaya made it look so effortless. What really got me is how she embodies the themes, the energy, and the spirit of the Met Gala. She doesn’t just wear a dress; she tells a story. From that sharp, tailored suit to the free-flowing, feathered gown, Zendaya showed us how to embrace both sides of fashion, sophisticated and bold, classic and experimental. And I loved every second of it. She’s got this rare ability to just… own the moment.
Gosh, I was totally obsessed with Tessa Thompson’s look at the 2025 MET Gala. Honestly, she was serving us a whole mood with this custom ivory molded panier tuxedo gown by Atelier Prabal Gurung. I can’t even explain how the mix of 18th-century silhouette and sharp, modern tailoring just hit differently. This gown had layers, both literally and figuratively, and it was all about blending the historical with the modern, and making it look effortless.
The structured panier skirt gave the whole look this regal, historical vibe, but then the black tuxedo jacket with the satin lapels brought it right into the present. It was like she was pulling elements from Black dandyism, but with a feminine, avant-garde twist. I loved how it played with traditionally masculine codes of dress, but it was still so Tessa, so polished, but bold. I also loved how she accessorized.
The black bowler hat was the perfect touch of vintage chic, and the lace gloves? A beautiful nod to classic elegance. But my absolute favorite detail was the vintage fan she carried, featuring a portrait of André Leon Talley. That tribute was so thoughtful, and it made her look even more powerful. She was honoring his legacy while making a statement about her own.The whole look was so intentional, and I think that’s why it stood out to me, it wasn’t just fashion; it was storytelling. Tessa gave us a lesson in reimagining tailoring while paying tribute to Black culture and fashion history. She didn’t just wear a gown, she owned it. Every single detail was perfect, and she made it all look so effortless. I think she definitely had one of the most memorable moments of the night.
Doja Cat absolutely slayed the 2025 MET Gala, and I’m still thinking about her custom Marc Jacobs look. Styled by Brett Alan Nelson, she rocked a sculptural pinstripe bodysuit with exaggerated shoulder pads and a leopard-print bustier. The whole vibe was this perfect mix of 1980s power dressing with a modern twist, and I was completely here for it.
She paired the look with sheer black tights, platform boots, and a fur cap that just added this bold, fearless energy. And those accessories? The leopard-print clutch and statement jewelry took the entire ensemble to another level. Doja’s makeup was on point with a soft, pale shimmer, and her textured, voluminous afro was the perfect nod to the era’s iconic styles.What I really loved was how she said she wanted to feel like a “gangster” or a “madam” in the look. It was so intentional, and Marc Jacobs really helped her bring that vision to life. This outfit wasn’t just about fashion, it was about honoring Black dandyism and tailored style, and Doja totally nailed it. She was fierce, bold, and unapologetically herself, and that’s exactly why this was one of my favorite looks of the night.
Lupita Nyong’o absolutely captivated me at the 2025 MET Gala. She arrived in a custom aquamarine Chanel ensemble that was equal parts regal and revolutionary. Styled by Micaela Erlanger, she wore a double-breasted wool jacket with a satin blouse, paired with a voluminous chiffon cape that billowed dramatically as she moved. The look was completed with a matching boater hat, adding a touch of classic elegance to the modern silhouette.
But it wasn’t just the tailoring that had me in awe, it was the intention behind it. Lupita shared that her outfit honored the history of Black fashion, emphasizing how Black men in America have used style as a form of dignity and self-preservation. She drew inspiration from her African roots and the cultural expressions of Black Americans, making her appearance not just a fashion statement, but a powerful tribute to heritage and identity.Her beauty look was equally striking. Makeup artist Nick Barose created a soft, shimmering palette that highlighted her natural glow, while hairstylist Vernon François styled her hair into a sleek, textured updo that complemented the modern yet timeless feel of the ensemble.
The finishing touches, a brooch and rings from Chanel’s High Jewelry collection, added just the right amount of sparkle without overshadowing the outfit’s elegance. Lupita’s presence at the MET Gala was more than just a red carpet moment; it was a statement of grace, power, and cultural pride. She didn’t just wear a suit; she wore a narrative, a celebration of Black style and resilience. And for me, that made her one of the most unforgettable figures of the night.
Taraji P. Henson absolutely stunned me at the 2025 MET Gala. I mean, she showed up and showed out. When I saw her in that custom black velvet gown by Christian Siriano, I was just in awe. It wasn’t just a gown, it was art. The design was all about drama, luxury, and old Hollywood glamour, with a modern edge. The way the gown hugged her figure and flared out at the bottom was pure perfection.
It felt like she was channeling a classic star, but with a contemporary twist that was uniquely Taraji. The dress had this beautiful, plunging neckline that exuded confidence, and the voluminous sleeves? Don’t even get me started. They were oversized in the best way, giving her this powerful silhouette that was both regal and fierce.
The gown was structured, yet there was something soft and fluid about it as it moved with her, making her look like she was floating down the red carpet. And those little touches of glittering embellishments across the gown? They made it pop in the most elegant way. What really made the look stand out for me, though, was Taraji’s ability to own it.
She wore the gown, and that gown did not wear her. She paired it with a bold, dramatic makeup look, smoky eyes, glowing skin, and a deep red lip that added just the right amount of sultry. Her hair was sleek, styled into a perfect updo that complemented the drama of the dress. It was all about creating a balanced moment of elegance and strength.
Taraji’s look was everything I wanted from a MET Gala moment: bold, beautiful, and unapologetically her. She took us back to old Hollywood while keeping it fresh and modern, and the whole vibe just felt powerful. She didn’t just attend the Gala, she owned it. This was definitely one of my favorite looks of the night, and it’s one I’ll remember for a long time.
Taraji P. Henson absolutely captivated me at the 2025 MET Gala. She arrived in a custom Monse x Post-Imperial ensemble that was equal parts regal and revolutionary. Styled by Wayman & Micah, she wore a white suit jacket and bodysuit combo, drawing inspiration from Barkley Hendricks’ 1974 painting What’s Going On, which features figures in white suits.
The look was completed with a matching boater hat, adding a touch of classic elegance to the modern silhouette. But it wasn’t just the tailoring that had me in awe, it was the intention behind it. Taraji shared that her outfit honored the history of Black fashion, emphasizing how Black men in America have used style as a form of dignity and self-preservation.
She drew inspiration from her African roots and the cultural expressions of Black Americans, making her appearance not just a fashion statement, but a powerful tribute to heritage and identity. Her beauty look was equally striking. Makeup artist Nick Barose created a soft, shimmering palette that highlighted her natural glow, while hairstylist Vernon François styled her hair into a sleek, textured updo that complemented the modern yet timeless feel of the ensemble.
The finishing touches, a brooch and rings from Chanel’s High Jewelry collection, added just the right amount of sparkle without overshadowing the outfit’s elegance. Taraji’s presence at the Met Gala was more than just a red carpet moment; it was a statement of grace, power, and cultural pride. She didn’t just wear a suit, she wore a narrative, a celebration of Black style and resilience. And for me, that made her one of the most unforgettable figures of the night.
Okay, let me take you through Cynthia Erivo’s stunning look at the 2025 MET Gala, because honestly, she was an absolute vision. When she walked onto that red carpet, I was completely captivated by how she brought the theme of “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” to life. She wore a custom Givenchy creation designed by Sarah Burton, and let me just say, wow.
It was a perfect blend of Rococo dandyism, with elements inspired by style icons like Joseph Bologne and Prince. The jacket? I mean, breathtaking. It was this corset-style, sharply tailored piece covered in over 43,000 Swarovski crystals. Yes, you heard me right, 43,000! And it wasn’t just a quick fix. This masterpiece was hand-embroidered over 1,300 hours by a team of 40 artisans. The detail was insane, and it felt so modern yet still steeped in history.Now, the tulle skirt she paired with it was massive and dramatic, but it worked so well with the corset jacket, there was this perfect balance of structure and fluidity. And those knee-high lace-up boots? I’m obsessed. They added a bit of edge to what was already a showstopper of an outfit. Cynthia’s nails were also insane; they took two whole days to complete! The pocket square motifs were a subtle but brilliant nod to the menswear inspiration behind the theme.
And let’s not forget her beauty look, her makeup artist, Joanna Simkin, drew this tiny heart on her cheekbone, giving the whole look a playful, whimsical vibe to balance out all the glamour. But the best part? She didn’t just walk the carpet, she performed. She and Jon Batiste shared a spontaneous duet, and it was like the universe was aligning to make her even more unforgettable.
The energy she brought was absolutely infectious. When it came to the best-dressed of the night, Cynthia had to be in the conversation. She was effortlessly chic, full of personality, and just so captivating. That look is definitely one I’ll remember for a long time.
Honestly, after seeing these 10 Black women at the 2025 MET Gala, I’m still in awe. They didn’t just wear incredible outfits, they owned them. Each one of them brought something so unique, so powerful, and so deeply personal to the red carpet that it was impossible to look away.
They truly embodied Met Gala theme in a way that felt authentic and groundbreaking. Their presence reminded me that fashion isn’t just about clothes; it’s about telling your story, making your mark, and celebrating who you are. These women didn’t just attend the MET Gala; they left their stamp on it, and I’m so excited to see what they’ll bring next.
