Met Gala 2025 Celebrates Black Dandyism with Bold Fashion Statements

The 2025 Met Gala departed from its usual focus on couture womenswear to celebrate men’s tailoring and Black dandyism, highlighting the subversive power of fashion in challenging social boundaries. Central to the event was Janelle Monáe, whose Thom Browne ensembles—including a trompe l’oeil striped suit that transformed into a deconstructed look—were widely praised as the night’s standout. Monáe’s outfits paid homage to the gala’s 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' theme while also incorporating surrealist accessories like a clock-monocle and bowler hat. At the after-party, Monáe pushed boundaries further with a daring topless look featuring anchor-shaped nipple pasties, continuing her tradition of using fashion to redefine norms around Black identity and respectability. In interviews, Monáe emphasized her intent to deconstruct systems and empower self-definition, stating, 'We get to decide who we are.' The event and Monáe’s choices drew acclaim for both their artistry and alignment with the gala’s exploration of dandyism as a radical form of freedom.