The annual fundraising gala, which benefits the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, earned a record-breaking $31 million this year. The gala celebrates the Institute’s annual fashion exhibit, explores fashion as art, and raises money for the museum’s Costume Institute.

It takes place on the first Monday of May every year and is organized by Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue and Global Chief Content Officer for Condé Nast. She has chaired the event since 1995. Each year, a specific theme is chosen, reflecting fashion history, culture, or a designer’s legacy. For example, in 2023 the theme was Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty; in 2018, Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination; and in 2015, China: Through the Looking Glass.

Attendees include celebrities from fashion, film, music, art, sports, politics—designers, models, actors, athletes and influencers. Tickets are invite-only, often provided by Anna Wintour, and cost around $75,000 per person as of 2024. Tables cost hundreds of thousands of dollars and are often purchased by fashion brands.

The night begins with red carpet arrivals—the most publicized part. Guests then attend an exclusive cocktail reception and are able to view the exhibition. Finally, they have dinner together and watch highly private performances. Indeed, the final portion is rarely filmed. For example, some videos were leaked of Ariana Grande’s performance at the 2024 Met Gala.

The event is a significant moment in fashion. It’s where attendees wear elaborate outfits inspired by the year’s theme. Designers often collaborate with celebrities to create custom looks. Most importantly, it’s where fashion meets performance art. The gala is not just about stylish or luxurious clothes—it’s about transforming fashion into a form of creative expression, like an artistic performance. Take, for example, Lady Gaga’s 2019 Met Gala entrance. She didn’t just walk the red carpet, but arrived in a giant pink gown and changed outfits multiple times right there, each one more dramatic than the last. It was like watching a live show.

This year, the theme was Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, which explores the cultural and historical significance of Black Style from the 18th century to the present, inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion. The dress code invited personal interpretations of tailoring and menswear, encouraging guests to explore the concept of Black dandyism through their attire. Dandyism refers to the style or conduct of a dandy—a man overly devoted to style, neatness and fashion in dress and appearance.

The event was co-chaired by Anna Wintour, Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo and Lewis Hamilton. Lebron James also served as an honorary chair, though his attendance was uncertain due to NBA commitments. “Fashion is a kind of storytelling—this year, it’s about telling the story of Black excellence through tailoring and elegance,” said Williams. Wintour also commented on the attire of other co-chairs. She noted that Pharrell Williams and A$AP Rocky had described their planned ensembles to her, which she deemed “perfect.” Regarding Lewis Hamilton, she remarked with a chuckle, “Lewis, I’m not sure I entirely believe him… but it’s great,” indicating her trust in his fashion choices.

Notable fashion moments left fashion enthusiasts astounded. Rihanna revealed her third pregnancy in a custom Marc Jacobs ensemble, aligning with the theme’s focus on Black Style. Zendaya wore a white Louis Vuitton suit designed by Pharrell Williams and styled by Law Roach, paying homage to Bianca Jagger and Diana Ross.

André 3000 captured attention with a piano strapped to his back, exemplifying the creative interpretations encouraged by the theme.  Emma Chamberlain, hosting Vogue’s livestream, showcased two custom Courrèges looks, balancing fashion and functionality for her extensive hosting duties. Finally, Diana Ross made her first Met Gala appearance since 2003, donning a dramatic feathered and beaded white gown.