Looks from the 2025 Met Gala that were actually on theme

As the 2025 Met Gala red carpet draws to a close, we’re left to reflect on the night — and fashion — that was. As it always does, the event arrived in a flurry of , glam squads, and bodyguards, and it’s only now that the last guests have made their way inside the gala that we’re able to process exactly what we saw. In particular, we’re ready to dive into the looks that nailed this year’s theme — and which ones left us scratching our heads.

First, it’s worth partaking in a little refresher in this year’s theme and dress code, and exactly what they both mean. ICYMI, the 2025 theme was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which derived inspiration from Monica L Miller’s 2009 book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. For those unfamiliar, much of Miller’s work is steeped in history, centred on the figure of the Black dandy, from the 18th century until now. The dress code dispelled this idea into a simpler three simple words, supposed to help designers and celebs hone in on a specific look for the night: ‘Tailored For You’.

And while the interpretative nature of the Met Gala always leaves more than a little room for guests to get creative with their outfits, the RUSSH team has had their say, and these are the looks that really nailed the brief. Below, the most on theme looks from the 2025 Met Gala.

Jenna Ortega

And the most creative interpretation of the theme goes to… Jenna Ortega, in a custom Balmain creation made out of tailoring rulers. In addition to looking incredible, Ortega’s gown is an indirect, but oh-so-apt nod to the history of Black Dandyism.

Zendaya

Zendaya and Law Roach literally never miss, so really no surprises that this custom Louis Vuitton look hit the mark. She was inspired by Bianca Jagger’s 1971 wedding outfit — a fitting reference for a soon-to-be bride.

Laura Harrier

Looking equal parts ethereal and powerful in a custom GAP creation, designed by Zac Posen. It was the designer’s first-ever Met Gala creation to feature pants, in a pointed tribute to historical Black dandyism as a form of elegance and resistance. And extra points to Laura for committing to the pose on the red carpet. No notes.

Doechii

It’s Doechii’s world, we’re just living in it. A custom Louis Vuitton look that definitely read the brief.

Bad Bunny

This Prada look carried the red carpet — literally, when you throw in that bowling bag.

A$AP Rocky

Being a co-chair calls for an impeccable look, and A$AP delivered. He paid homage to Harlem with a custom AWGE look, designed by himself and longtime stylist Matthew Henson.

Janelle Monae

Thom Browne and Janelle are a match made in dandy heaven. While this look is visually striking from the outset, when you hone in on the intricate details, it only gets better. The deconstructed element, according to Janelle, was a pointed decision: “I’ve tried to deconstruct systems for many years through my work, through my art and activism,” they said. “I want to deconstruct respectability politics around suiting and around how Black people can show up in the world. I wanted to show that we get to decide who we are.”

Jodi Turner-Smith

This Burberry look was laden with both historical reference and immaculate tailoring, paying tribute to Selina Lazevski—a Black equestrian photographed in 1891 by Paul Nader during the Belle Époque in Paris.

Teyana Taylor

Taylor’s look was designed in partnership with Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter. Together, the duo devised a vibrant red Zoot suit — a type of suit popularised in Harlem in the 1940s. Adding to the layered symbolism, the cape was stitched with the phrase “Harlem rose”  at the train.

Jennie

Dandyism might originally refer to menswear, but ultimately came to represent an approach to dressing that was about individualism and expressing someone’s personal style — a sentiment perfectly embodied in Jennie’s look, which fuses elements traditionally belonging to mens and womenswear.