Standout looks from the 2025 Met Gala Among the most talked-about ensembles at the 2025 Met Gala, Zendaya’s dramatic return to the red carpet stood out as a defining moment. Dressed in a custom couture gown by Maison Margiela, she embraced the Gala’s theme with a theatrical silhouette, complete with sculptural elements and a rich, jewel-toned palette.

Celebrating five decades of Black cultural excellence The Beck Cultural Exchange Center has stood as a cornerstone of Knoxville’s Black community for half a century, preserving and promoting African American history, art, and culture. Established in 1973, the Center has grown into a vital institution, housing thousands of historical documents, photographs, and artifacts that chronicle the rich legacy of Black life in East Tennessee.

History and significance of the Met Gala The Met Gala, officially known as the Costume Institute Benefit, began in 1948 as a fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City. Originally a modest midnight supper attended by members of high society, the event has evolved into one of the most prestigious and exclusive nights in global fashion.

Red carpet arrivals The red carpet at this year’s annual gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City was nothing short of a visual spectacle, with celebrities turning out in dazzling ensembles that pushed the boundaries of fashion.

Exploring black dandyism through fashion Black dandyism is a powerful aesthetic and cultural movement that reclaims fashion as a tool of resistance, pride, and identity. Emerging from a history of colonialism and systemic oppression, Black dandyism challenges dominant narratives by embracing elegance, flamboyance, and meticulous self-presentation.

Creative designs from discarded materials Over the weekend, students from across Mecklenburg County took to the runway with outfits that turned heads—not for their designer labels, but for their inventive use of discarded materials. From shimmering gowns made of chip packets to structured jackets crafted from old newspapers, the fashion show was a vibrant display of creativity and environmental awareness.

Iconic celebrity ensembles Zendaya made a triumphant return to the Met Gala red carpet, captivating onlookers with not one, but two jaw-dropping ensembles. Her first look, a dramatic custom creation by Maison Margiela, featured a sculptural silhouette with intricate detailing that paid homage to this year’s theme.

Standout celebrity interpretations Among the most talked-about appearances of the night was that of Zendaya, who arrived in a sculpted, midnight-blue ensemble that fused classic tailoring with avant-garde structure. The look, custom-designed to accentuate her silhouette, featured sharp lapels and a dramatic train, nodding to both traditional menswear and high fashion drama.