Even among fashion weeks, The Met Gala is often viewed as fashion’s event of the year. However, some years are better than others. While this could be because of individual outfits, it is my opinion that the overall theme, established each year by Vogue’s Editor in Chief Anna Wintour, often dictates the quality of the evening’s attire. 

The theme for the 2025 Met Gala was Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. The theme was a nod to Black culture’s influence on fashion. Many looks were inspired by dandyism and the suits of the Harlem Renaissance. 

This theme provided us with some great looks, my personal favorites being those of Rihanna and Monica Barbaro. However, as I watched the celebrities walk the famous Museum of Metropolitan Art steps, I found myself seeing extremely similar looks. In fact, actresses Zendaya and Anna Sawai wore almost identical white silk suits. Even their hats looked the same. This lack of originality was, quite frankly, a bit boring to watch. 

In past years, themes such as “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” and “Gilded Glamour” have allowed attendees to interpret the theme uniquely. For example, at the 2024 Met Gala, artist Tyla wore a gown that was made to look like sand, interpreting the “Garden of Time” as “sands of time.” So, while there was an abundance of florals, the theme was broad enough to supply a variety of looks. 

Another, one of my favorite aspects of the Met Gala is the gowns often worn by guests. Extravagant dresses with long trains just scream glamour and fashion. However, this year, to my disappointment, there were no exquisite gowns, with the exception of Diana Ross’s. While I am always a fan of suits, when almost all attendees are dressed in practically the same striped suit, I am left longing for something more, something sensational.

It is my hope that by next year, Anna Wintour’s theme will inspire some more individual looks.