African Stars, Tems, Tyla, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr Steal The Spotlight At The 2025 Met Gala With Iconic Looks

The 2025 Met Gala paid homage to the elegance, creativity, and legacy of Black dandyism and African celebrities didn’t just show up, they redefined the night’s narrative.

This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” spotlighted the rich legacy of sartorial excellence within the Black community, with the blue carpet transformed into a celebration of heritage, pride, and powerful storytelling through fashion. Among the most striking tributes came from African artists styled by British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng, whose signature flair brought Black elegance to the fore.

Tems, styled in a custom Ankara indigo shirt dress by Ozwald Boateng, detailed with subtle green patterns. The look, complete with a bow tie, headpiece, and umbrella, echoed Boateng’s 2019 womenswear debut at the Apollo Theater, a celebration of Harlem Renaissance glamour and timeless Black sophistication.

Nigerian stars Burna Boy and Ayra Starr, both draped in Ozwald Boateng’s masterful tailoring. While Burna Boy leaned into classic Afro-fusion flair, Ayra Starr channeled her signature “sabi girl” energy

The Nigerian-American actress Ayo Edebiri turned heads in a custom Ferragamo piece by Maximilian Davis, fusing traditional Edo attire with modern couture. The ensemble stood as a proud nod to Nigerian heritage, blending history with high-fashion elegance.

Global content creator Khaby Lame brought playfulness and precision in a tailored BOSS suit with a waistcoat adorned by a pocket watch, a nod to self-made success and dapper nostalgia.

Lupita Nyong’o exuded regal magic in a custom aquamarine CHANEL ensemble inspired by Look 67 from the Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2015/2016 collection. The outfit complete with a cape, satin bow, camelia brooches, and coordinating accessories perfectly embodied the theme’s spirit.

Nigerian author and cultural icon Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie made a powerful debut at the Met Gala in a bright red, feathered gown by Prabal Gurung. As a member of the 2025 host committee, her presence was more than symbolic, it was a bold statement on African visibility in global culture. Her ensemble echoed her dedication to storytelling and reclaiming African narratives on the world stage.

South African Grammy-winner Tyla, styled by Law Roach in custom Jacquemus, closed the night with a heartfelt tribute to fashion icon André Leon Talley, merging youthful fire with reverence for a Black legend.

The Ghanian Stormzy, stayed true to form, balanced sleekness with swagger in Tom Ford, skipping the jacket but finishing strong with a rare platinum Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/110P, valued at nearly $900,000, 

Damson Idris kept things classic in Tommy Hilfiger, while teasing fans with excitement for his upcoming F1 movie.

From bold cultural homages to tailored storytelling, African stars at the 2025 Met Gala did more than just dress for the theme, they embodied it. In every stitch and silhouette, they carried history, innovation, and global influence.