Nigerian Celebrities Light Up the 2025 Met Gala With Afrocentric Elegance and Global Style
Nigerian stars once again brought their bold creativity and cultural pride to the world stage at the 2025 Met Gala, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. With this year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” the annual high-fashion fundraiser became a canvas for Black excellence, innovation, and heritage—elements that Nigerian celebrities displayed effortlessly.
The gala, which took place on Monday, welcomed luminaries from across the globe, but it was the Nigerian delegation that turned heads and sparked conversations online and off. Afrobeats powerhouses Burna Boy, Tems, and Ayra Starr, acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and celebrity stylist Swanky Jerry were among the standout attendees.
Tems: Blending Tradition and Modernity
Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, captivated fashion enthusiasts with her Aso-Ebi-inspired ensemble that merged African fabrics with Western tailoring. The look, both regal and avant-garde, honored her Yoruba heritage while maintaining a contemporary edge. Her look was widely praised for its balance of cultural symbolism and modern couture aesthetics.
Burna Boy: Afro Royalty in Ozwald Boateng
Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, arrived in a bespoke creation by Ghanaian-British designer Ozwald Boateng. The custom suit featured intricate details that paid tribute to African textiles, draped in a royal palette of deep emerald and gold. Burna Boy described it as “specially made,” and the fashion moment didn’t end there—he was later seen in a viral video sharing a light moment with UK rapper Central Cee during the after-party.
Ayra Starr: Effortless Cool Meets Couture
Ayra Starr, the self-proclaimed “sabi girl,” lived up to her reputation in a daring floor-length gown that emphasized clean lines and bold textures. The minimalist design allowed her charisma and confidence to shine through, offering a modern twist on traditional elegance. Her outfit was among the night’s most talked-about looks on social media.
Chimamanda Adichie: Literary Grace in Striking Red
Renowned novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie embodied sophistication in a crimson gown that blended classic elegance with bold femininity. Her presence at the Met Gala carried additional significance, as she served on the 2025 Costume Institute Benefit host committee, joining figures like Usher, Tyla, Ayo Edebiri, and Dapper Dan. With her commanding poise and fashion-forward mindset, Adichie was a vision of brilliance and cultural pride.
Swanky Jerry: Fashion With a Statement
Celebrity stylist Jeremiah Ogbodo, famously known as Swanky Jerry, didn’t disappoint. Dressed in a dramatic piece by Nigerian designers Deji and Kola, he owned the carpet with his signature flair. He later posted a photo from the event with the caption, “On duty for Met Gala 2025, superfine. Tailoring Black style. When the theme calls for legacy, I deliver. Heritage in every stitch. Legacy in every look.”
Ayo Edebiri: Bridging Cultures With Benin-Inspired Glamour
Also making a powerful impression was American-Nigerian actress Ayo Edebiri, whose outfit featured subtle references to Benin royalty. Her hair and accessories fused traditional African motifs with modern silhouettes, celebrating diasporic identity in high fashion.
A Night of Style and Storytelling
The Met Gala continues to be the most anticipated fashion event of the year, not just for its stunning visuals but for the stories told through fabric, silhouette, and styling. With Anna Wintour at the helm since 1995, the event has grown into a global celebration of fashion as art—and in 2025, Nigerian stars proved that no one tells a story quite like they do.
By embracing heritage, innovation, and unapologetic style, Nigeria’s brightest icons not only graced the red carpet—they redefined it.
