Lagos to the Met: How Nigerians Quietly Stole the 2025 Met Gala

In a year where the Met Gala dared to dig deep into identity and elegance with the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, a quiet revolution occurred on the carpet. Not loud, not overstated but rich with depth, culture, and ancestral precision. The Nigerian presence wasn’t just seen. It was felt.

Across the marbled steps of the Met, amidst towering couture and editorial flashbulbs, Nigerians unfolded a visual essay in power, pride, and poise.

Tems: A Symphony in Ankara by Ozwald Boateng

Tems graced the Met Gala in a custom Ozwald Boateng ensemble that harmoniously blended traditional African textiles with contemporary tailoring. Her deep blue shirt dress featured subtle Ankara prints, complemented by a matching green ankara necktie, hair ribbon, and umbrella. This look paid homage to Boateng’s 2019 debut womenswear collection at New York’s Apollo Theater, reimagined through Tems’ unique lens. 

Burna Boy: Regal Elegance in Oxblood

Burna Boy exuded Afrocentric elegance in a custom red tuxedo by Ozwald Boateng, paired with an oxblood eel skin cape. The ensemble highlighted Nigeria’s rich leather craftsmanship, challenging the notion that fine leather is exclusive to Europe.

 

Ayra Starr: Minimalist Muse in Ozwald Boateng

Ayra Starr made her Met Gala debut in a sleek, minimalist gown also by British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng. The design captured her “sabi girl” essence, radiating bold confidence and aligning with the evening’s theme.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Literary Grace in Prabal Gurung

Author and activist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, serving on the host committee, wore a stunning red gown by Prabal Gurung. The dress was adorned with delicate feathers, mini bows, and ties, adding layers of texture and symbolism. Her presence and attire underscored her influence in both fashion and culture. 

Ayo Edebiri: Subtle Homage in Ferragamo

Actress Ayo Edebiri honored her Nigerian roots in a Ferragamo ensemble designed by Maximilian Davis. The look featured a white floor length collared dress, accentuated with a cluster of red Edo beads (known traditionally as ivie) draped from the neck to the waistline and cascading down the skirt. A black leather cape and sheer gloves completed the ensemble, seamlessly blending contemporary fashion with cultural heritage.

Cynthia Erivo: Rococo Dandyism in Givenchy

Cynthia Erivo captivated attendees in a custom Givenchy creation by Sarah Burton, inspired by Rococo dandyism. The ensemble featured a sharp, tailored sliced jacket with exaggerated shoulders and a corseted tulle skirt, embodying both structure and fluidity. It has been stated that the intricate outfit required over 2,250 hours to craft, including 1,300 hours dedicated to hand embroidering more than 43,400 Swarovski crystals.

Damson Idris: Classic Sophistication in Tommy Hilfiger

Actor Damson Idris made a dramatic entrance at the Met Gala, arriving in a Formula 1 race suit complete with a helmet, before revealing a tailored red plaid three piece suit by Tommy Hilfiger with gold accents. The ensemble merged classic American style with his Nigerian heritage, reflecting the evening’s theme by showcasing the evolution of Black tailoring.

Ego Nwodim: Playful Elegance in Christopher John Rogers

Comedian and actress Ego Nwodim made her Met Gala debut in a playful three piece black suit by Christopher John Rogers. The ensemble featured a cropped jacket with shoulder pads, a ruffled peplum corset, ankle length pants, and rainbow colored sleeve buttons. She completed the look with red patent leather pumps and a diamond necklace, embodying the gala’s celebration of Black dandyism.

 

These appearances by Nigerian and Nigerian descended celebrities at the 2025 Met Gala not only highlighted their individual styles but also emphasized the global influence of Nigerian fashion and culture. Their ensembles served as a testament to the rich tapestry of Black fashion history, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity.