The Met Gala is often seen as a cultural and fashionable spectacle. This year, the red carpet was filled with icons, designers and critics who claimed the evening was a display of grandeur, but was that truly the case?
Some would argue otherwise. Charles Blackburn ‘28, co-president of Cub Clothing, a student-led fashion collective at Loyola, commented, “This year’s Met Gala was subpar compared to previous years.” Statements like Blackburn’s were heard throughout the fashion community, with many pointing out a lack of unity at the event and execution of the theme.
This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” celebrated the history of Black dandyism, a cultural movement where Black Americans used fashion to express their identities and challenge societal limitation. The dress code, “Tailored for You,” encouraged attendees to interpret the theme through personal style. Despite the theme offering an array of innovative and meaningful fashion statements, most looks lacked execution and creativity.
Alfredo Graciano ‘28 remarked, “Even though there were a few well-represented looks for the theme, in general, there weren’t many amazing outfits that represented what Black dandyism is or stands for.”
For example, Heidi Klum’s custom black strapless gown by Vetements, though elegant, was criticized for its minimalist design, which ultimately failed to reflect the complexity of the theme. Similarly, Lorde’s silver skirt set and blazer, while a bold statement of her gender identity, lacked the structured tailoring and cultural homage central to the concept.
There were bright moments, however. Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton stood out in an all-white look that broke the black palette dominant throughout the night. “Despite stepping outside the color theme, Hamilton delivered one of the best looks of the evening,” said Joaquin Reyes ‘28. “Not only is he a champion on the F1 grid but also at the Gala.” Hamilton’s outfit proved that fashion can be worn through a theme without being confined to its boundaries.
He wore a crisp, all-white, tailored suit with sharp lapels, and his look balanced modern fashion with Black dandyism. A diamond lapel pin and subtle jacquard texture added elegance to his outfit, capturing the essence of the theme.
Though the Met Gala is known for its vibrant costumes, this year revealed a surprising hesitancy toward the theme. With the concept of rooted culture, tailoring and personal style, the 2025 Gala had the potential to serve as iconic fashion moments, ones that celebrated Black excellence and redefined menswear. Instead, it felt like a night of scattered ideas and missed opportunities in the big apple.
The controversy surrounding this year’s event leaves the fashion world and stylish Cubs with one question to reflect on after this year’s Met Gala: Was the tailoring truly “superfine” or just “superficial?”
