Podcast Summary: Every Outfit - Episode 220: On the 2025 Met Gala

Release Date: May 8, 2025

In Episode 220 of Every Outfit, hosts Chelsea Fairless and Lauren Garroni, joined by guests Morty and Colman Domingo, delve into a comprehensive analysis of the 2025 Met Gala. This episode offers insightful critiques, highlights standout fashion moments, and discusses the overarching themes and trends observed during the event.

1. Initial Impressions of the 2025 Met Gala

The discussion kicks off with Morty and Colman Domingo sharing their overall impressions of the gala. While acknowledging that the year had its highs and lows, they agree that the event leaned towards a cautious approach in honoring the theme.

• Morty (03:12): “I personally thought that the red carpet was more coherent than last year. The theme is more focused...”
• Colman Domingo (03:16): “Overall, I don't think it was the best year, but I don't think it was the worst year either.”

They note that fears of cultural insensitivity led many attendees to opt for safer fashion choices, impacting the diversity and creativity typically expected at the Met Gala.

2. The Rise of the "Guxedo" Trend

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the emergence of the "Guxedo"—a fusion of tuxedo and gown—dominating the red carpet.

• Colman Domingo (13:02): “I think the fear of cancellation did lead some people down a safer path.”
• Morty (16:38): “I do think that fear of cancellation did lead some people down a safer path.”

Notable Examples:

• Rihanna: Celebrated for her impeccably executed Marc Jacobs-designed guxedo, blending dramatic elements like corsetry and a distinctive hat.
  • Colman Domingo (14:12): “If anyone else wore it, I think I would hate it. But I think that speaks to the level of fashion that Rihanna can pull off.”
• Zendaya and Anna Sawai: Praised for their classic and timeless interpretations of the tuxedo, avoiding overly flamboyant accessories.
  • Morty (27:08): “Zendaya, who wore Louis Vuitton...”

The hosts categorize guxedos into various styles, including gowns with lapels and hybrid garments that balance between traditional tuxedos and contemporary gowns.

3. Prop Usage on the Red Carpet

Props played a pivotal role in adding depth and personal expression to attendees' outfits. The hosts highlight several prominent uses of accessories:

• Cigars and Canes:

  • Colman Domingo (36:44): “The smoking props are the most sort of exciting. Madonna brought a cigar. Dochi also brought a cigar.”
  • Morty (39:22): “The predominant prop of the evening, the cane.”

• Musical Instruments:

  • Morty (38:29): “Jon Batiste brought his saxophone, which he played.”

These props not only complemented the ensembles but also added layers of meaning and homage to fashion histories.

4. Controversial and Ambiguous Looks

The episode addresses certain controversial outfits that sparked debates regarding cultural sensitivity and thematic relevance.

• Lisa’s Louis Vuitton Bodysuit:
  • Morty (23:04): “To be fair, she is wearing a bodysuit, but she's wearing a jacket on top of the bodysuit. It just looks like she's wearing panties that have embroidered faces.”
  • Colman Domingo (24:05): “Louis Vuitton should comment on this because it's gotten so out of control.”

The ambiguity of the embroidered figures led to speculation about their references, with mentions of Rosa Parks and other historical figures, raising questions about intent and interpretation.

5. Best Dressed Highlights

Morty and Colman nominate standout attendees who epitomized the theme and showcased exceptional style.

• Al Sharpton:

  • Morty (63:54): “My best dressed is Al Sharpton. His suiting wasn't even that extravagant, but something about the billowy sleeves spoke to me.”
  • Colman Domingo (64:16): “You could tell that he was having fun based on the photos.”

• IOGA's Ferragamo Ensemble:

  • Morty (64:35): “Iowa Debris and her stylist Danielle Goldberg... a custom Ferragamo dress with intricate coral beading.”
  • Colman Domingo (65:50): “Ferragamo also did a really great look for Paloma...”

These selections highlight the hosts' appreciation for creativity, adherence to the theme, and personal expression.

6. Worst Dressed Critiques

The conversation shifts to outfits that missed the mark, either through poor thematic execution or lack of cohesion.

• Holly Berry in Laquan Smith:

  • Colman Domingo (70:10): “Nothing about it works. The jacket doesn't work. The neckline doesn't work... It does not look like a bespoke look for the Met Gala.”

• Bebe Rexha in Christian Siriano:

  • Morty (70:24): “It looks like the most extra working woman whose nursing bra is jutting out.”
  • Colman Domingo (71:07): “I would think that he hates her.”

These critiques emphasize the importance of balance between daring fashion choices and maintaining elegance and thematic relevance.

7. Menswear and Dandyism

Exploring beyond women's fashion, the hosts discuss menswear representations and the embodiment of dandyism.

• Lewis Hamilton in Prada:

  • Morty (61:55): “Bad Bunny and Prada looking like Leon the Professional.”
  • Colman Domingo (62:15): “Bad Bunny can wear the craziest assortment...”

• Spike Lee's Casual Elegance:

  • Morty (53:27): “He wore a suit down to his Knicks hat... feels like it just came from his own personal closet.”

The hosts appreciate how menswear can blend traditional dandy elements with modern flair, maintaining sophistication while pushing boundaries.

8. Final Thoughts and Conclusions

Concluding the episode, Morty and Colman reflect on the overall success of the Met Gala, acknowledging both its triumphs and shortcomings. They express anticipation for future events, hinting at more in-depth analyses and discussions.

• Morty (73:09): “Until the next first Monday in May.”
• Colman Domingo (73:13): “Bye.”

The episode underscores the Met Gala's role as a platform for bold fashion statements, cultural dialogue, and personal expression, while also highlighting areas for improvement in thematic adherence and cultural sensitivity.

Notable Quotes:

• Colman Domingo (03:16): “Overall, I don't think it was the best year, but I don't think it was the worst year either.”
• Morty (13:28): “Rihanna’s Guxedo was the most well executed, hands down.”
• Morty (39:22): “The predominant prop of the evening, the cane.”
• Colman Domingo (70:10): “Nothing about it works. It does not look like a bespoke look for the Met Gala.”

This episode of Every Outfit offers a thorough and engaging exploration of the 2025 Met Gala, providing listeners with both critical insights and celebratory highlights of this iconic fashion event.