By clicking on various social media platforms, attendees of the 2025 Met Gala missed the mark on honoring Black fashion and cultural history, failing to grasp or adhere to the event's theme and turning a potentially impactful concept into a missed opportunity.

Initially intrigued by the theme of the event, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," and the accompanying dress code "Tailored for You," there was a sense of anticipation to pay homage to the legacy, creativity, and cultural essence of Black style. Expectations included unique interpretations, bespoke designs, luxurious fabrics, and historical references intertwined with cultural significance.

However, as the event unfolded, the excitement waned as many guests played it safe or overlooked the theme altogether, opting for conventional red carpet looks rather than engaging with the deep and specific theme presented. The theme aimed to celebrate the historical significance of Black dandyism and how tailored fashion has been utilized by Black individuals as a form of self-expression, resistance, and cultural identity, tracing back to the 18th century and extending to the present day, as detailed in Monica L. Miller's Slaves to Fashion.

While some attendees fully embraced the theme with innovative and surprising ensembles, such as Alton Mason, Teyana Taylor, Shaboozey, and others, others failed to meet the same level of creativity and imagination. Iconic figures like Zendaya, Megan Thee Stallion, and Sydney Sweeney fell short in capturing the essence of the theme, while non-Black participants like Joe Burrow missed the mark by wearing uninspired outfits that did not align with the event's purpose.

Despite the mixed responses from attendees, the essence and depth of the theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," provided a compelling perspective through which to explore fashion, culture, and history. Despite the missed opportunities and lack of risk-taking by many guests, the theme sparked important dialogues and honored a legacy worthy of recognition, highlighting the need for future Met Galas to continue presenting themes that are bold, culturally significant, and deserving of attention.