MET Gala 2025: 12 Daring Black Designers Who Ruled the Night

MET Gala 2025: 12 Daring Black Designers Who Ruled the Night

MET Gala 2025 was more than a star-studded night. It became a powerful celebration of Black creativity, courage, and culture. Twelve Black designers, many of whom were new to the global spotlight, took over the red carpet with bold looks that lit up the fashion world.

The theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” honored the rich history of Black menswear and the spirit of Black dandy. For the first time, Black designers weren’t just featured in the museum display — their works stole the show on the carpet itself.

Nigeria’s Adebayo Oke-Lawal, founder of Orange Culture, styled Brian Tyree Henry in a deep red layered outfit with a sparkling cape. His designs mix traditional Nigerian prints with modern, androgynous flair, creating something new and fearless.

Indian-Nigerian designer Ahluwalia made a powerful statement. She dressed actress Aimee Lou Wood and Olympian Gabby Thomas. Thomas wore a two-piece red outfit detailed with 10,000 beads, honoring strength and beauty. Wood’s look paid tribute to Congolese and Nigerian roots, showing Ahluwalia’s skill in merging heritage with modern fashion.

Bianca Saunders brought her London-based touch to Stefon Diggs. His black suede jacket, tailored pants, and faux fur hat were inspired by James Brown and paid homage to fashion icon André Leon Talley. Saunders also dressed Nick Jonas in a soft cream suit with rose accents and Tiffany brooches, blending structure and elegance.

Bishme Cromartie, the Project Runway All Stars winner, gave TV host Zuri Hall a show-stopping look. Her blazer gown had off-shoulder straps, a red flower detail, and a fitted mermaid skirt — a daring twist on dandy fashion.

Charles Harbison added color and drama to the night. The designer behind Harbison Studio dressed Mindy Kaling, Simone Biles, and Audra McDonald. His work, known for bold colors and rich textures, blended perfectly with the night’s theme.

Hanifa’s founder, Anifa Mvuemba, made her MET Gala debut dressing Savannah James. Her custom look featured a burgundy pinstripe skirt, a fitted corset top, and hints of the ‘70s zoot suit — bold, structured, and full of style.

Maxwell Osborne, founder of anOnlyChild, brought elegance with edge. He dressed Kara Young and Sarah Snook in bold suits that played with shape and detail. Osborne’s designs reflect his Jamaican roots and tell stories through silhouette and fabric.

Nicholas Daley focused on culture. The Scottish-Jamaican designer styled Leon Bridges in a wide-striped suit with matching yellow gloves and shoes. Daley blends tradition and music, giving each look a deeper meaning.

Ozwald Boateng was the night’s veteran. With over two decades in fashion, he dressed a powerful lineup: Ayra Starr, Tems, Burna Boy, Jaden Smith, Issa Rae, and Ncuti Gatwa. Known for redefining menswear, Boateng’s colorful suits and flowing gowns were a masterclass in Black elegance and precision tailoring.

These 12 designers didn’t just dress celebrities — they told stories. They brought culture, history, and personal pride to the MET Gala carpet. For many of them, it was their first time designing for such a major stage. But their work stood tall, fearless, and unforgettable.

MET Gala 2025 proved that Black designers are not just part of the conversation — they are redefining it from the inside out. With fearless creativity, culturally rich storytelling, and avant-garde designs, they are not only setting the tone for the future of fashion but demanding overdue recognition. Their moment isn’t just now — it’s here to stay.