Ghanaian fashion designer Jude Dontoh has confirmed that all the jewelry worn by Lauryn Hill at the 2025 Met Gala was made in Ghana and also shared the inspiration behind Lauryn Hill’s outfit.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb’s Joseph Henry Mensah, Jude Dontoh shared that the creative direction behind Lauryn Hill’s ensemble was rooted in African heritage.
“We were trying to show black African heritage. Fun fact, the umbrella that we were supposed to use didn’t make it. All the jewelry was made in Ghana, and the umbrella was supposed to come from Ghana as well, but we got some hiccups here and there, so we couldn’t use it,” Jude Dontoh explained.
The designer noted that a traditional Ghanaian umbrella was intended to complement Lauryn Hill’s look but could not arrive in time for the red-carpet appearance.
“It was one of the traditional Ghanaian umbrellas, but we had to improvise,” he added.
According to Jude Dontoh, despite the setback, he emphasised that the team was committed to making a cultural statement.
“We had to show up for Africa and Ghana. Lauryn has a Ghanaian on her team who’s also a great friend of hers, and she said, ‘Let’s go represent.’ And you know, let’s show these people what we’re made of and I guess we did that to the best of our ability,” he added.
Lauryn Hill made a stunning debut at the 2025 Met Gala in a butter-yellow tuxedo gown designed by Ghana’s Jude Dontoh of Tribe of God.
The ensemble featured embroidery, a dramatic train, a burgundy tie, and gold Ghana-made jewelry. A ceremonial umbrella, referencing Ghanaian royalty, and topped with a bold sash of authority and a contrasting cerulean Hermès Kelly bag.
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