Experts Share Their 7 Biggest Met Gala Trend Predictions, From Sculpted Hair to Sharp Suits

Key Takeaways

• The 2025 Met Gala is right around the corner, and we can’t wait to see what the “Tailored For You” red carpet has in store.

• Experts break down their seven biggest trend predictions, from metallic eyeshadow to tailored suiting.

The first Monday in May is nearly upon us, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to judge red carpet looks from the comfort of our couches. The 2025 Met Gala’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” isn’t just about serving looks—it’s about showing respect, doing your homework, and paying homage to Black fashion and culture through the lens of Black dandyism.

Fittingly, the broader dress code for the carpet is “Tailored For You,” and it’s all about celebrating fine tailoring and menswear rooted in Black identity and artistry. According to the experts, you can expect a red carpet that’s rich in historical references and sartorial storytelling. Ahead, insiders share their insight on the seven beauty, fashion, and hair trends that’ll be taking over this year’s Met Gala red carpet.

Ballroom Extravaganza

Black ballroom culture has long been a cornerstone of self-expression and unapologetic extravagance. Mirroring the essence of Black dandyism, “ballroom culture is made up of individuals who sought to create a character with lasting impact,” says Charisse Kenion, a video journalist that covers beauty and fashion. “I would love to see attendees lean into paying homage to some of the greats such as Willi Ninja, Octavia St. Laurent and Carmen Xtravaganza.” Think: luxurious heels, gender play, and over-the-top accessories that embody the decadent flair of ballroom culture.

Moody Reds

There’s something so timeless about a red lip on a red carpet. “Red lips are making a return, but in a modern way,” celebrity makeup artist Sir John tells Byrdie. From deep oxblood to warm brick tones, deeper, moodier reds are bound to make an appearance. “It’s giving timeless beauty with an editorial lure,” he adds. For the perfect deep red lip, he recommends subtly overlining the lips with a deeper red lip pencil and adding a touch of gloss to the center of the lip.

Tailored to Perfection

One takeaway from this year’s dress code: Don’t underestimate the power of precision, personal fit, and the quiet confidence of something made just for you. In a styling context, that could really mean anything, but above all, expect hyper-tailored, one-of-a-kind pieces that are carefully suited to the wearer. (I’m still thinking about Tyla’s form-fitting sand dress from last year’s red carpet). “Once it’s been fitted to your body, it is truly yours—no one else can wear it,” Kenion tells Byrdie. “I would love to see attendees revisit shapes and silhouettes from the past.”

Future-Forward Eyes

“The eyes will be a way to convey emotion and strength,” predicts John. The red carpet will be rich with vibrant references that pay homage to Black fashion and culture, and the eyes are no exception. “Expect bold shapes, metallics, and color choices that nod to Afro-futurism,” he says. For an added pop, John recommends Upneeq drops, prescription-only eye drops that help to lift the eyelid for a refreshed, wide-awake look.

Vibrant Maximalism

For Kenion, the theme brings to mind the spirit of Congo dandies, or sapeurs, who embodied “high fashion and vibrant color with prints ranging from leopard and florals to Scottish tartans and stripes.” Expect a surplus of eclectic patterns and rich textures, layered with intention and flair.

Above all, Kenion hopes to see maximalism through the lens of Black designers. “I want to see Ozwald Boateng’s stunning eye for color and detail on the red carpet,” she says. “I want people to honor the maximalism of the late, great Andre Leon Talley—think regal, ceremonial, over-the-top-ness!”

Sculptural Styles

Cool, sculptural styles are bound to dominate the Met Gala red carpet. Across hair types and textures, hair has historically been used as a platform for self-expression and identity. Naturally, expect the hairstyles on the Met Gala red carpet to be anything but boring—from threaded styles to colorful cuts, we’re in for a show.

Post-Facial Skin

At the heart of the “Tailored For You” dress code is a celebration of individuality and personal expression. So when it comes to complexion, reflective, refined skin is going to shine take center stage. “Glow is the goal,” remarks John. It’s not about heavy makeup; it’s about a complexion that’s glowing, hydrated, and hyper-tailored to you. “Like you’ve had a facial and a full night’s sleep,” he adds. “Maybe even great sex the night before that shows up as flush of heat in the face or décolletage.” For a soft sculpted glow, use cream contour to create depth without flattening the face, and make sure not to over-powder.

Read the original article on Byrdie