The Met Gala, the annual pinnacle of the fashion calendar, unfolded its sartorial spectacle on May 5th at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. This year’s edition, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” paid homage to the enduring legacy and profound influence of Black dandyism on the world of fashion. The dress code, “Tailored for You,” served as an invitation for attendees to craft deeply personal interpretations of menswear, emphasizing individuality and rich cultural narratives.

India’s presence at this globally significant event has steadily amplified over the years, and 2025 witnessed a captivating showcase of Indian artistry and celebrity.

Making a highly anticipated Met Gala debut was Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan. He exuded regal sophistication in a custom Sabyasachi ensemble, featuring a striking floor-length black Tasmanian superfine wool coat adorned with monogrammed Japanese horn buttons. This was elegantly paired with tailored trousers and an open black crepe de Chine silk shirt. His carefully chosen accessories, including a Bengal tiger cane, a layered necklace featuring a prominent “K” pendant, and a diamond-studded brooch, subtly echoed his on-screen persona.

Another noteworthy debut came from Punjabi music sensation and actor Diljit Dosanjh. He offered a majestic tribute to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, gracing the event in a custom ivory sherwani crafted by Prabal Gurung. His regal look was completed with a traditional turban, layered necklaces, and a symbolic sword. A poignant detail was his cape, which featured an intricate map of Punjab, a proud testament to his heritage.

Actress Kiara Advani also marked her Met Gala debut with a breathtaking sculptural black-and-white gown titled “Bravehearts,” designed by Gaurav Gupta. Inspired by the iconic André Leon Talley, the ensemble celebrated the themes of motherhood and inner strength. Its voluminous silhouette conveyed both elegance and resilience. The gown’s centerpiece was a striking antique gold breastplate embellished with ghungroos and crystals, forming two interconnected heart motifs symbolizing the bond between a mother and her child, linked by a delicate chain representing the umbilical cord.

Met Gala veteran Priyanka Chopra Jonas once again commanded attention in a custom black-and-white Valentino gown, distinguished by a dramatic train and intricate embroidery. She accessorized with a statement necklace and matching earrings, embodying timeless grace.

Isha Ambani, representing Indian entrepreneurship and style, chose a bespoke hand-embroidered couture sari gown by Indian designer Rahul Mishra. This breathtaking creation, requiring over 10,000 hours of meticulous craftsmanship, depicted the vibrant lifecycle of nature, seamlessly aligning with the gala’s overarching theme.

Adding a touch of cinematic nostalgia, eagle-eyed observers couldn’t help but draw parallels between the coordinated black and white ensembles of Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra and their iconic characters, Don and Roma, from the beloved *Don* movie series. This visual resonance sparked considerable excitement among fans.

The event also saw the esteemed presence of renowned Indian fashion designer Manish Malhotra and influential philanthropist and fashion enthusiast Natasha Poonawalla, both showcasing exquisite Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design, further underscoring India’s burgeoning influence on the global fashion landscape.

Since its inception in 1948, the Met Gala has served as a crucial fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. Over the decades, it has evolved into a premier global fashion event, attracting a constellation of international celebrities and visionary designers. Each year, the gala unveils a new and thought-provoking theme, challenging attendees to create innovative and culturally significant sartorial interpretations.

This year’s gala also witnessed compelling interpretations of the theme from international stars like Zendaya, who donned a custom white Louis Vuitton zoot suit, and Lewis Hamilton, who sported a silk tailcoat by Wales Bonner. The event was expertly co-chaired by Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and the ever-iconic Anna Wintour, with LeBron James serving as an honorary co-chair.

For Indian audiences eager to witness the glamour and artistry of the Met Gala, highlights and red carpet moments are readily available on Vogue India’s official website and various social media platforms.

Author: Janvi Joshi