The Who What Wear Podcast: Met Gala 2025 Recap

Episode Title: The Met Gala 2025 Recap: The Most Inventive Looks, the Designers Who Dominated, and All the References You Might Have Missed
Release Date: May 7, 2025
Host/Authors: Bobby Schussler, Lauren Egertson, Tara Gonzalez

1. Introduction: Setting the Scene

In this vibrant episode, The Who What Wear Podcast delves deep into the highlights of the Met Gala 2025, themed "Super Fine Tailoring Black Style." Hosted by Bobby Schussler, along with editorial director Lauren Egertson and senior fashion and social media editor Tara Gonzalez, the trio provides an insightful analysis of the evening's most striking looks, designer contributions, and the subtle references that adorned the red carpet.

Bobby Schussler [01:03]: "Today, we're giving you the full download on this year's Met Gala. ... The theme was Super Fine Tailoring Black Style, and evening honoring Black style and the history of black dandyism."

2. Standout Arrivals: Rihanna's Anticipated Entrance

One of the night's most talked-about moments was Rihanna's highly anticipated arrival. Her presence was the culmination of much anticipation, with her dual looks setting the tone for the evening.

Tara Gonzalez [02:26]: "We were like, is she pregnant? Is she not pregnant? What's happening? We saw a baby bump there, and so that made her arrival just that much sweeter and much more anticipated."

Lauren added that Rihanna's choice to showcase two distinct looks highlighted her flair for drama and storytelling on the red carpet.

Lauren Egertson [03:02]: "She was wearing Miu Miu. ... she would give us two looks so she can be as late as she wants, in my opinion."

3. Theme Interpretation: Super Fine Tailoring and Black Dandyism

The theme celebrated Black style and the legacy of Black dandyism, emphasizing tailored menswear elements. Lauren provided an in-depth look into the inspiration behind the theme, referencing Monica Miller's book and the exhibition's extensive collection.

Lauren Egertson [03:39]: "The exhibit itself has over 300 pieces from the early 18th century to now. ... the first menswear exhibit the Met Gala has had in over 20 years."

Tara expanded on how the theme allowed for both experimentation in men's styling and posed challenges for women in translating tailored elegance to their ensembles.

Tara Gonzalez [05:29]: "I was definitely excited to see some exuberance around men's styling on the red carpet, which is something that is a bit more rare."

4. Designer Dominance: Thom Browne and Louis Vuitton

Thom Browne emerged as a significant influencer, with multiple celebrities donning his designs impeccably. Tara expressed her admiration for his avant-garde yet elegant approach.

Tara Gonzalez [06:50]: "I think Whoopi Goldberg, her silhouette was what I was picturing, but also at the same time, all of the looks were just beyond my wildest dreams."

Louis Vuitton, under Pharrell Williams' direction, also made a substantial impact, with Zendaya and Doja Cat showcasing its unmatched tailoring.

Lauren Egertson [07:00]: "Louis Vuitton by Pharrell. ... It was definitely a standout designer at red carpet."

5. Memorable Celebrity Looks

Several celebrities delivered standout appearances that resonated with both the theme and personal narratives:

• Colman Domingo: Sporting a custom suit by Oswald Boatang, Domingo paid homage to Black designer heritage, making his look both stylish and meaningful.

  Lauren Egertson [16:45]: "He was the first black designer to ever have a store on Savile Row. ... he looked amazing."

• Diana Ross: Making a rare red carpet appearance, Ross donned an 18-foot train gown by Ugo Mozi, embroidered with her children's names, symbolizing legacy and family.

  Lauren Egertson [08:37]: "She wore a Nigerian designer, Ugo Mozi, and it had an 18 foot train and it was embroidered with her names of her children and grandchildren."

• Zendaya: Her Louis Vuitton ensemble was described as flawless, embodying the perfect blend of elegance and tailored sophistication.

  Bobby Schussler [07:21]: "Zendaya was just like perfection, just flawless."

6. Homages and Personal Narratives

The evening was rich with personal tributes, where attendees incorporated elements reflecting their heritage and family histories:

Lauren Egertson [09:35]: "There was a huge part about how dandyism and that culture, family references are so important. ... represent their culture."

Celebrities like Jodie Turner Smith and Hunter Schafer embraced the theme by integrating historical references and personal touches into their outfits.

Tara Gonzalez [15:29]: "Jodie Turner Smith and her Burberry look ... she paid homage to a portrait of the equestrian Selika Lazewski."

7. Accessories and Styling Details

Beyond the main garments, accessories played a pivotal role in elevating the looks:

• Jewelry: From diamond-studded umbrellas to intricate brooches, jewelry was a focal point.

  Tara Gonzalez [21:59]: "I loved all the grills. I loved all the brooches. I loved all of the, like, tie pins..."

• Makeup and Hair: Innovative makeup designs and hairstyles complemented the tailored outfits, adding depth to the overall aesthetic.

  Lauren Egertson [22:27]: "Dochi's makeup look where she had the Louis Vuitton on her cheek ... really helps pull the whole look together."

8. The Role of Co-Chairs: Colman Domingo's Impact

As a co-chair, Colman Domingo played a significant role beyond just his attire. His heartfelt remarks during the exhibit preview underscored the importance of Black style across generations.

Lauren Egertson [20:39]: "He talked for eight minutes, and I feel like that was the longest that any co chair has spoken. ... he wanted to impart that onto everybody else."

9. Final Impressions: Hosts' Favorite Looks

As the discussion drew to a close, each host shared their top favorite looks:

• Bobby Schussler: Highlighted Colman Domingo, Diana Ross, and Zendaya for their impeccable style and impact.

  Bobby Schussler [25:10]: "Colman Domingo for sure. And then I'm gonna actually say Diana Ross as one of mine. And then Zendaya, I think, are my top three."

• Lauren Egertson: Praised Teyana Taylor for her thoughtful homage and Trey Mal Tillman's floral ensemble.

  Lauren Egertson [25:10]: "I really loved Teyana Taylor's ... and Trey Mal Tillman's ... it was one of the standout looks of the evening."

• Tara Gonzalez: Expressed admiration for Rihanna's Marc Jacobs look and Tracee Ellis Ross's elegant Ensemble.

  Tara Gonzalez [25:10]: "Rihanna because I think it was the best Marc Jacobs look ... and Tracee Ellis Ross ... was just so amazing."

10. Conclusion: Reflecting on the Night's Success

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the success of the theme and the diverse interpretations showcased. They commend the blend of tradition and innovation, emphasizing how the Met Gala continues to be a pivotal platform for celebrating and evolving fashion narratives.

Bobby Schussler [28:34]: "Thank you guys. This was fun. I know it's late, but it was well worth it."

Key Takeaways:

• Theme Execution: "Super Fine Tailoring Black Style" was brilliantly interpreted through a mix of traditional tailoring and contemporary flair, honoring Black dandyism's rich history.

• Designer Influence: Thom Browne and Louis Vuitton were among the standout designers, offering elegant and avant-garde pieces that resonated with the theme.

• Personal Narratives: Many celebrities used their outfits to tell personal stories, pay homage to family heritage, and celebrate cultural icons, adding depth to their red carpet appearances.

• Attention to Detail: Accessories, makeup, and hairstyling were meticulously curated, enhancing the overall impact of each ensemble.

• Memorable Moments: Rihanna's dual looks, Diana Ross's grand entrance, and Colman Domingo's heartfelt remarks were among the night's unforgettable highlights.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of each look and additional insights, visit whoitwear.com and follow Tara Gonzalez's live feed for real-time updates and analyses.