This year’s Met Gala, themed Superfine: Black Style Tailoring, is already making headlines for being one of the most disappointing red carpets outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan.
To start, the theme seems rather muddled. While the Costume Institute aims to honor the sophistication of Black American dandyism and evolving tailoring, the execution on the red carpet felt vague, allowing attendees to interpret it in any way.
I’ve always appreciated the freedom from strict dress codes at Met Galas, largely thanks to Anna Wintour’s style. But this year? It truly showcased a mix of hits and misses.
Best outfit: Diana Ross by Ugomoji
Diana Ross made a triumphant return after a two-decade absence from the Met Gala, embodying extravagance and flair.
In her Ugo Mozie ensemble, she turned heads, even if it didn’t strictly adhere to the theme. As a personal touch, she had her children’s and grandchildren’s names sewn onto the train.
Worst attire: Amelia Gray Hamlin by Valentino
Amelia Gray seems to have channeled a quirky 1930s harem vibe; I can’t help but wonder how Florence Mills would feel about it.
This ensemble—characteristic of Valentino’s Alessandro Michele—was all about maximalism. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work; if you’re wearing a durag, maybe it’s better to sit this one out.
Best attire: Lana Del Rey by Valentino
Lana Del Rey arrived with a refreshing look, reminiscent of a Renaissance, pairing a stunning gown from Michele Valentino with new marital bliss.
Her gown had a hint of 1980s Italian fashion, reflecting both elegance and the dandyism theme with luxurious details like gold clips in her hair and satin embellishments.
Worst attire: Kim Kardashian from Chrome Hearts
Kim Kardashian’s ensemble felt more like a compromise. It seemed as if she wanted to wear something bolder but settled for a leather fedora, which was neither stylish nor elegant.
Best attire: Rihanna by Marc Jacobs and Stephen Jones
Rihanna, reigning as the Met Gala queen since 2015, brought a sophisticated elegance this year. In her custom outfit, we could almost imagine her as a wealthy heiress from an era long gone.
There’s a charm in her refined style that captivates, emphasizing nostalgia and class.
Best attire: Tom Ford
Tom Ford personified the theme, consistently looking polished and stylish amidst a sea of offbeat fashion choices.
It’s hard to go wrong with a classic smoking jacket and shades, right?
Worst attire: Patrick Schwarzenegger from Balmain
I think we can reasonably say that Patrick Schwarzenegger’s Balmain suit missed the mark, falling into the realm of clumsy fashion choices.
Best outfit: Zendaya by Louis Vuitton
Zendaya fully embraced the evening’s theme in a tailored three-piece suit from Louis Vuitton, showcasing sharp lines and meticulous attention to detail.
This was a genuine tribute to class and tailoring, fitting seamlessly with the event’s focus.
Worst attire: Shakira from Prabal Gurung
While I respect Shakira’s choices, her look this year didn’t quite land as intended.
Best attire: Pamela Anderson from Tory Burch
Pamela Anderson may not have adhered strictly to the night’s theme with her crystal-embellished gown, but there was something undeniably charming and whimsical about her look.
Worst attire: Jodie Turner Smith of Burberry
I’m not quite sure what happened here; the result feels reminiscent of a Wonka-inspired fashion disaster.
Best attire: Monica Barbaro by Dior
Despite some questionable choices on the carpet, Monica Barbaro stood out with a tasteful Dior frock, drawing inspiration from the iconic New Look of the Parisian fashion house.
Good fashion is timeless, and she proved that point beautifully.
