From L to R: Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Tems and Tyla
The 2025 Met Gala brought together the biggest names in music, film, sports, and fashion at New York City’s iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art.
This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” paid tribute to the elegance, creativity, and heritage of Black fashion, drawing inspiration from Monica L.
With the official dress code labelled, “Tailored for You,” the 2025 edition focused heavily on menswear in structure and also in inspiration, inviting attendees to blend tradition with individuality in their interpretations.
The event was co-chaired by well-known personalities including Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton.
LeBron James, originally announced as an honorary chair, sadly had to pull out last minute due to a knee injury.
But beyond the usual Hollywood royalty and music megastars, this year saw a surge of African excellence take centre stage.
Artistes from the African continent made statements and represented their cultures with pride, sophistication, and plenty of flair.
From Nigeria to South Africa, creativity made a lasting impression at the biggest night in fashion.
Tems
Tems, known for her soulful music and standout fashion sense, didn’t disappoint at her Met Gala debut.
She brought a touch of Africanness to the steps of the Met, turning heads in a gown that reimagined traditional Ankara fabric through a modern couture lens.
Designed by British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng, Tems’ look was a stunning fusion of culture and tailoring.
The custom mermaid-style vest gown was crafted in rich shades of blue and green, worn over a pinstriped shirt with a dramatic green pussy bow.
A matching peacock-themed umbrella completed the ensemble.
Tyla
South African star Tyla, off the global success of her hit single “Water,” made a strong fashion statement that honoured her present and the legacy of black fashion icons.
Her fitted off-the-shoulder dress, designed by Jacquemus, came with a floor-length coat featuring dramatic black and white stripes, a visual nod to the late André Leon Talley, a trailblasing black fashion editor and Met Gala icon.
Tyla’s stylist, Law Roach, confirmed the inspiration by sharing Talley’s portrait wearing a similar striped outfit.
Burna Boy
Burna Boy arrived at the 2025 Met Gala in full regal form, just days after making history as the first African artiste to sell out the 80,000-capacity Stade de France.
His appearance was a celebration of heritage, achievement, and high design.
The Nigerian superstar chose British-Ghanaian Ozwald Boateng to design his look: a striking red wool tuxedo paired with a deep oxblood eelskin cape.
The ensemble was sharp, powerful, and steeped in cultural symbolism.
Ayra Starr
Nigerian singer-songwriter Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, made her first Met Gala appearance this year.
Her red carpet look dazzled and interpretated the theme of the event.
Ayra Starr rocked a black leather dress paired with a walking stick.
AK/EB
