As the sun set on a vibrant New York City evening, the iconic Mark Hotel buzzed with anticipation for the 2025 Met Gala. Before stepping onto the famed steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a select group of celebrities gathered for an exclusive Instagram photoshoot, capturing the essence of the night’s theme: Tailored for You. This annual tradition not only highlights the creativity of fashion but also serves as a platform for stars to showcase their unique styles.
Behind the scenes of the Instagram photoshoot
The atmosphere was electric as Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri led the charge, posing alongside his wife, Monica. Reflecting on the platform’s five-year partnership with the Met Gala, he expressed excitement about the night’s potential for creativity and self-expression. “Fashion is one of the most important verticals for us,” he remarked, emphasizing the significance of the event in the world of social media and fashion.
As the evening progressed, each celebrity took their turn in front of the camera, with photographer Quil Lemons capturing their individual styles. Eva Chen, Instagram’s director of fashion partnerships, made a stunning entrance in a custom gown adorned with 370,000 glass beads, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of designer Jackson Wiederhoeft. Chen’s ensemble was a testament to the evening’s theme, blending elegance with a modern twist.
Fashion statements that stole the spotlight
Among the standout moments was Jeff Goldblum’s striking midnight blue suit, paired with a luxurious cashmere coat. His ensemble was complemented by a dazzling Jacob & Co. diamond watch, a tribute to the late André Leon Talley. Goldblum’s playful spirit shone through as he reminisced about last year’s gala, highlighting the emotional connections formed through shared experiences in the fashion world.
Newcomer Shaboozey made waves with his bold black suit, embellished with nearly 3,000 Swarovski turquoise beads. Drawing inspiration from West African history and his Virginia roots, his look was a vibrant celebration of culture and identity. “It really feels like West African as well,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of heritage in fashion.
Embracing the theme with innovative designs
Taraji P. Henson embraced the evening’s theme with a bespoke outfit that blended masculinity and femininity. Her all-white ensemble featured a corseted shirt dress and a tails-style jacket, accessorized with a pearl-handled cane. Henson’s confidence and creativity shone through as she navigated the delicate balance of traditional gender norms in fashion.
Meanwhile, Jenna Ortega dazzled in a Balmain gown crafted from metal rulers and tape, embodying the spirit of old Hollywood glam. Her excitement was palpable as she celebrated her transformation from her Wednesday persona to a more classic aesthetic. The evening culminated with Charli XCX and Nicki Minaj, whose show-stopping looks left a lasting impression, proving that the Met Gala is not just an event but a celebration of art, culture, and individuality.