The MET Gala 2025 “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” theme delivered one of the best looks in MET Gala history in that it gave us a masterclass in tailored black fashion. Unlike years of over-the-top themes where everyone attending was expected to go over and beyond in their dressing, this year celebrated heritage craftsmanship, cultural significance, and the power of subtle statements.
Halle Bailey
Granted, the tailored suits, chiffon jackets and satin pants were some of the highlights of MET Gala 2025 event but there’s an underdog we often tend to neglect when we drool over our favourite celebrity’s outfit – the accessories. As someone who lives for both timeless elegance and meaningful details, I was captivated by how accessories became the quiet heroes of the night.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
From heirloom-worthy jewels to hats that spoke volumes, below, I’ve made a breakdown of the most covetable accessories—and how to adapt their magic for everyday styling .
Some of MET Gala 2025 Most Standout Accessories
1. Zendaya’s Architectural Hat (Louis Vuitton)
Zendaya’s outfit to the 2025 MET Gala red carpet – tailored white suit and pants was met with much acclaim
– The Accessory: A sculptural, wide-brimmed hat in crisp white, mirroring her tailored suit’s lines.
– Why it mattered: The accessory was a nod to Black dandyism’s tradition of hats as power symbols—think 1920s Harlem Renaissance meets modern minimalism.
2. André 3000’s “Piano” Bag (Custom Thom Browne)
This musician wore a navy boiler jumpsuit by Burberry x Benji Bixby (his revived fashion label), in a remake of an early 20th-century aviator suit with embroidered umbrellas and raindrops.
– The Accessory: A functional baby grand piano strapped to his back.
– Why it mattered: It blended artistry with tailoring, honoring Black musical genius while playing with the theme’s ‘fine suit tailoring’ focus.
3. Rihanna’s Pearl Choker (Marc Jacobs)
Musician turned entrepreneur, Rihanna wore black cropped wool jacket paired with a wool bustier bodysuit and pinstripe tailored skirt featuring a bustle for dramatic flair. The structured silhouette showcased her baby bump while nodding to the theme’s focus on Black dandyism’s sartorial precision.
– The Accessory: A single strand of baroque pearls, layered over her sleek black suit.
– Why it mattered: Pearls have deep roots in Black luxury (see: Josephine Baker’s iconic looks)—this was a modern, undone twist.
4. Olivier Rousteing’s Statement Clutch (Custom Balmain)
The highly acclaimed designer arrived at the MET in a deconstructed tuxedo with exaggerated lapels and glove-like sleeves, pairing it with a diamond pinky ring and Balmain’s “Le Club” sunglasses in gold—his subtle way of branding without logos.
– The Accessory: A custom Balmain clutch shaped like a vintage sewing kit
– Why it mattered: The clutch was a cheeky tribute to the theme’s tailoring roots.
The Trends from the MET that You Can Wear in Real Life
Not everyone can rock a piano bag in reality, but these MET-inspired trends are surprisingly adaptable:
1. Tailored Suits
Remember Zendaya’s Louis Vuitton three-piece suit , Colman Domingo’s Valentino cape , and A$AP Rocky’s AWGE technical parka?
How to wear it
a. For work: Try a wide-lapel blazer (just like Zendaya’s) with high-waisted trousers.
b. Weekend vibes: Ditch the blazer for a structured vest (à la Rocky) over a crisp shirt.
c. Gender-fluid flair: Pair a tailored jacket with a pleated skirt or flowy wide-leg pants.
2. Statement Hats & Headpieces
We saw Diana Ross’s feather-trimmed hat, Lupita Nyongo’s delicate blue hat and Zendaya’s wide-brimmed topper.
How to wear it
a. Fedoras or cloches elevate casual outfits (e.g., jeans + blazer).
b. Bold headbands (inspired by Laura Harrier’s look ) add polish to minimalist dresses.
3. Monochrome & Earthy Tones
Bad Bunny fully represented this theme in his chocolate-coloured Prada suit.
How to wear it
a. Head-to-toe brown or cream (like Lewis Hamilton’s Wales Bonner suit ) feels luxe yet effortless.
b. Warm neutrals (ochre, terracotta) work for both casual and formal looks .
4. Bold Footwear
Ayo Edebiri represented this with her jeweled loafers. Doechii with her Mary Janes as well.
How to wear it
a. Chunky loafers (Balenciaga or The Row) pair with everything from suits to denim.
b. Knee-high socks + platforms (a dandy staple) add whimsy to mini dresses.
Why These Accessories Mattered
The 2025 MET proved that “superfine” isn’t just about price tags, it’s also about:
- Cultural resonance (pearls, hats, and tailoring as Black joy and resistance).
- Quiet craftsmanship (no logos, just perfect stitching) and
- Personal storytelling (heirlooms, not hype).
Here’s How to Get Similar Looks
- Invest in one heritage accessory (e.g., a pearl strand, leather gloves).
- Mix eras together e.g. pair vintage cufflinks with your modern suit.
- Support your local designers. It is that easy.
Happy styling!
