Met Gala 2025: Designer Dandies and Duds

The Met Gala—where fashion meets art, and the world watches in awe. This year’s theme, Black Dandyism, was both a celebration and a challenge, daring guests to redefine elegance, individuality, and the celebration of one’s identity through personal style. But before we dive into the dazzling gowns and questionable sartorial choices, let's take a step back and explore the roots of Black Dandyism.

A Brief History of Black Dandyism

Black dandyism, much like its European counterpart, emerged as a symbol of both elegance and resistance. It’s a form of sartorial self-expression that became especially relevant in the 19th century, when Black men and women in the diaspora used fashion to challenge societal expectations and redefine respectability. The dandy—a sharp, refined figure—wasn’t just about looking good; it was about asserting your power, your individuality, and your resilience through clothing. Defining a Black dandy can be subjective, but therein lies its power: it empowers the individual to express themselves without apology, to rebel against norms, and to prevail on their own terms. This is the essence of Black dandyism: empowerment through personal style.

Now, onto the Met Gala—let’s take a look at the best and, well, let’s say less successful moments.

Dandies

Rihanna in Marc Jacobs: The queen has arrived. Rihanna’s appearance in Marc Jacobs was not just a fashion moment; it was a declaration. Dressed in a show-stopping piece from Marc Jacobs, she didn’t just wear the theme—she embodied it. Black dandyism is about unapologetic elegance, power, and a hint of rebellion, and Rihanna nailed every aspect of that. She didn't simply walk the carpet; she redefined it. This was a celebration of both style and substance, punctuated by her joyous pregnancy announcement. Let’s be real—this is a look we’ll be talking about for years. And on a personal note: we very loudly welcome yet another riri and ASAP prodigy to the world.

Image via: PEOPLE (2025). Met Gala 2025: A Full Red Carpet Recap

A$AP Rocky in AWGE: A true dandy in every sense, A$AP Rocky wore his own design, keeping the spirit of Black dandyism alive and well. His AWGE creation wasn’t just a statement piece—it was a reflection of his individuality and creative prowess. It’s not every day that you see someone wear their own brand with such confidence, and it was the perfect nod to the theme. A$AP doesn’t just follow trends, he sets them, and this was a moment where he absolutely nailed it.

Image via: NBC News (2025). Met Gala 2025: Live Updates

Zendaya in Louis Vuitton: Tailoring. It’s the simple yet often overlooked key to any look, and Zendaya—graciously gifted in the art of looking flawless—knew exactly how to play with it. In Louis Vuitton, she made sure to honor the theme by giving us the best-tailored look of the evening. The structure, the silhouette, the fit—all flawless. Zendaya’s look wasn’t just well-executed; it was an homage to the elegance and power that Black dandyism demands. She proved that timeless tailoring never goes out of style.

Image via: PEOPLE (2025). Met Gala 2025: A Full Red Carpet Recap

Jodie Turner-Smith in Burberry: From head to toe, Jodie Turner-Smith was a vision in Burberry. The color, the silhouette, and her confidence in wearing it made her a standout. It wasn’t just a dress—it was an expression of the theme, channeling Black dandyism with poise and grace. A true winner in every category: she understood the assignment and delivered.

Image via: British Vogue (2025). Hat’s Off To Jodie Turner-Smith’s Leather Burberry Look At The 2025 Met Gala

Sydney Sweeney in Miu Miu: If there’s anyone who can capture the spirit of the stars, it’s Sydney Sweeney. Channeling a sea of stars in a Miu Miu creation, she shone the brightest. The playful yet sophisticated look was a perfect embodiment of the theme, with just enough glamour to keep you captivated.

Image via: InStyle (2025). Sydney Sweeney Channels Iconic Actress in a Beaded, Boob-Cutout Gown at the 2025 Met Gala

Duds

Cole Escola in Christopher John Rogers: It’s giving… enthusiastic craft store employee. We love a bold print, but this looked more like a garden center exploded. Still, Cole brought fun, and in a sea of serious faces, that counts for something. We’ll chalk it up to “art student energy.”

Image via: Reddit (2025). Cole Escola in Christopher John Rogers at the Met Gala

Doja Cat in Marc Jacobs: Doja definitely made a bold statement, but sometimes, less really is more. The silhouette? Loud. The no-pants moment? Also loud. It was all a bit too much, but somehow, not enough at the same time. There was a lot happening, yet not enough attention to detail for it to really land as a cohesive look. While her daring choices are always appreciated, this felt like a bit of a misfire in the Met Gala’s sea of meticulously planned outfits.

Image via: Harper’s Bazaar (2025). Doja Cat Embraces the Avant Garde at the 2025 Met Gala

Demi Moore in Thom Browne: Demi, darling, we know you can bring the drama, but this look just didn’t deliver. Thom Browne usually masters sharp, menswear-inspired elegance, but this felt more like “outdated office chic.” And that headpiece? Bold, yes—but also a public safety hazard. That said, her face and waist are so snatched it’s almost rude. I’m 25 and still contouring like my life depends on it, so she’s clearly doing something right. Just… not with this outfit.

Image via: PEOPLE (2025). Met Gala 2025: A Full Red Carpet Recap

Chappell Roan in Pink Pony Club Patchwork Rockstar: Chappell, we get it—you’re here to make a statement. Unfortunately, the statement felt a little more ransom note than red carpet. The combination of patchwork and rockstar vibes had all the chaotic energy but none of the cohesion. Maybe just pick one theme next time?

Image via: PEOPLE (2025). Chappell Roan Pulls Off Dramatic Outfit Reveal and Glittery 'Disco' Glam for the 2025 Met Gala

Kim Kardashian in Chrome Hearts: Kim, Kim, Kim... You’re the Marilyn Monroe of our generation. You’ve set a standard for red carpet moments. So, when we saw you in Chrome Hearts, we thought, “Is this really it?” It wasn’t memorable, and for someone who’s built a reputation for show-stopping looks, this felt a little... meh. Here’s hoping your next Met Gala look lives up to the iconic status you’ve established.

Image via: Us Weekly (2025). Kim Kardashian Nearly Bares Her Bum in Leather Met Gala 2025 Look

That’s a Wrap

The Met Gala 2025 was a true reflection of Black dandyism—bold, unapologetic, and undeniably stylish. Whether the looks hit or miss, the intention was clear: fashion is meant to empower, provoke, and make a statement. Some nailed it, others... well, let’s just say they have next year to redeem themselves. Until then, let’s take a moment to appreciate the true dandyism on display—where elegance meets individuality, and personal style reigns supreme.