The theme for the 2025 Met Gala was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, with a dress code of “Tailored For You“. This year’s event marked the first time in over two decades that the Met Gala focused exclusively on menswear. The theme and dress code were inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book, “Slaves to Fashion,” which explores the Black dandy and the importance of tailoring to Black identity. 

The history of the theme this year was a nod to the imports of luxury slaves, and how when slavery was outlawed fashion became a way to demonstrate freedom. Dandyism is the term for the fashion and personalities of black men in the 1800 and 1900s who wore flamboyant clothes that were expensive and luxurious. They were often identified by their wit and fearlessness when talking about social issues. 

Those who are avid watchers of​ The Met Gala will know that outfits can be a hit or miss and this year was no different. Many people interpreted the theme as tailored well or made for you, when in reality the history goes much deeper. You can clearly identify those who understood the theme and those who didn’t. 

Some good examples of people who understood the theme were Dynasty and Soull Ogun, Cardi B, and Tayana Taylor.

The Oguns wore designer suits by their own brand,  L’Enchanteur. These born and raised Brooklyn twins embraced the flamboyance with big patterns, and flower details. My favorite part of this look was Soulls’ fabric tape measure belt, nodding to the “tailored” in tailored to you.

Cardi B rocked a green velvet dress with structured panels to give the illusion of a suit, designed by Burberry. With her hair worn natural, and the combination of rich green texture and flashy jewelry, she nailed this look. The luxury was clear when looking at her, and she also had that witty personality on point per usual. 

Tayana Taylor absolutely stole the show twice over. The American singer-actress wore an amazing pinstripe suit with flamboyant red velvet cape to match, both designed by Ruth E. Carter. Every point was hit on this look, from the adorned tophat, to her bejeweled velvet cape, and high red heels. As the cherry on top, Tayana made a nod to her popular song “Harlem Rose”, embroidering it onto her train. 

While all of these artists nailed their looks, there were some people who failed to understand what exactly the theme was calling for. 

One example of this was Jenna Ortega. While she usually stuns at events such as these, this year was a flop. Wearing a dress made entirely out of metal rulers by Olivier Rousteing, she seemed to have taken the theme at face value and not done her research on the significance. 

This was a common theme it seems, as many other artists such as Kim K., La La Anthony, and Charlie XCX all appeared in stunning, but unfortunately not on theme outfits. 

Considering that this was a theme for the men, let’s talk about the top menswear outfits this year. 

ASAP Rocky never fails to disappoint and this year was no different. He appeared wearing a suit designed by his own creative agency AWGE. Every detail was complex and told a story, whether it was the jeweled collar, perfectly tailored jacket, or silver tipped cane. 

Another honorable mention in the men’s category was Christian Latchman, who rocked a slightly feminine white suit with a pink peony, truly honoring the history of dandyism. 

My other favorites were Bryan Tyree and LaQuan Smith, who both blew this years met out of the park with their extravagant designs and well thought out accessories. 

Overall The Met this year could be seen as a disappointment when you focus on the bad, but those who truly understood the theme rocked it, and we all should be amazed.