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This Accessory Was All Over the Met Gala Red Carpet—and There's a Touching Meaning Behind It

Talk about a statement piece

Diana Ross Met Gala
Kevin Mazur/MG25/Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

It’s finally here: Fashion’s biggest night—the Met Gala. On Monday, May 5, A-listers like Zendaya, Gigi Hadid and Pharrell Williams flocked to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, taking their turns on the iconic steps.

This year’s theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," celebrates Black excellence in fashion and is inspired by the legendary André Leon Talley, who passed away in 2022, Costume Institute curator Andrew Bolton told CBS. As a tribute, stars embraced one of his most iconic fashion signatures—the cape.

Andre Leon Tally Met Gala
Larry Busacca/Getty Images

Talley first wore his unforgettable blue silk kaftan to the Met Gala in 2011. Fast forward to this year, and actor (and 2025 co-chair) Colman Domingo made a powerful statement in a bright blue pleated Valentino cape of his own—one that felt both regal and modern, and was no doubt a nod to his style predecessor.

ColemanDomingo Met Gala
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Teyana Taylor also paid homage in her own bold way, teaming up with Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter to create a tailored pinstripe suit paired with a dramatic red padded cape. The train featured a special touch: “Harlem rose” embroidered in bold lettering.

Teyana Taylor Met Gala
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Maya Hawke kept things soft and ethereal in a light pink dress, styled with a sheer tan cape tied at the neck—simple, sweet and very on-theme.

Maya Hawke Met Gala
Theo Wargo/FilmMagic

Lupita Nyong’o delivered a fresh take on power dressing in a powder blue Chanel suit, topped with a matching hat and an airy sheer cape that floated behind her.

Lupita Met Gala
John Nacion/Getty Images

And making a long-awaited return to the Met steps, Diana Ross shut it down in a white, crystal-covered gown with a feather-trimmed cape that swept the entire carpet.

She finished the look with a feathery hat that soared over her iconic curls. The best part? The cape was embroidered with the names of all her children and grandchildren, she later revealed.

I'm sure André would be so proud.

DianaRossMetGalaLook
ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images

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Assistant Editor, News and Entertainment

  • Writes breaking news and entertainment content
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