Met Gala 2025 shattered all previous fundraising records. The star-studded event brought in a staggering $31 million for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. This figure tops last year’s impressive $26 million total.
Max Hollein, the Met’s director and chief executive officer, announced the historic achievement during a preview event, according to Vanity Fair. Individual tickets cost $75,000, while tables started at $350,000. All proceeds will fund the Costume Institute’s exhibitions, acquisitions, and daily operations.
Celebrity Co-Chairs Honor Black Fashion Excellence
The gala boasted an impressive lineup of co-chairs. Basketball legend LeBron James, fashion-forward musicians A$AP Rocky and Pharrell Williams, Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, and acclaimed actor Colman Domingo led the event. Their participation highlighted the intersection of Black excellence across sports, music, and entertainment.
Though honorary chair LeBron James couldn’t attend due to a playoff injury, his wife Savannah James stepped in. She stunned guests in a custom gown from Hanifa, designed by founder and CEO Anifa Mvuemba. Her presence maintained the James family’s commitment to the celebration.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris made her Met Gala debut in a striking black and white silk gown. Off-White designer and Creative Director IB Kamara created the elegant ensemble, marking Harris’s first appearance at fashion’s biggest night.
“Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” Makes Met History
This year’s theme marks a groundbreaking moment for the Metropolitan Museum. “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” celebrates Black fashion’s rich history and widespread influence. The exhibition specifically focuses on Black dandyism and menswear traditions.
Co-curators Andrew Bolton and Monica Miller developed the first exhibition in over twenty years centered on menswear. More significantly, it’s the first-ever Met exhibit exclusively highlighting Black menswear. The collection spans three centuries, featuring garments connected to historical figures like Toussaint Louverture and Frederick Douglass alongside modern icons like Virgil Abloh.
Artist Torkwase Dyson created the exhibition’s innovative design. Her sculptural platforms present fashion pieces in a dynamic vertical layout. This fresh approach offers visitors new perspectives on the historical and contemporary garments.
Record-Breaking Fundraising Reflects Cultural Significance
The unprecedented $31 million raised demonstrates growing recognition of Black contributions to fashion history. Previous Met Gala themes have generated significant funds, but this year’s focus on Black style produced exceptional results.
The financial success serves as powerful evidence that Black culture drives both creative innovation and economic impact in the fashion world. Industry experts note that centering Black excellence proved not only culturally meaningful but financially beneficial.
The 2025 gala reinforces the Met’s position as both a cultural tastemaker and philanthropic powerhouse. After 77 years, the event continues to evolve and expand its influence while preserving fashion history for future generations.
