Vera Wang's appearance at the 2025 Met Gala has sparked significant discussion on social media as many attendees and viewers expressed their astonishment at her transformed look. The renowned fashion designer, aged 75, known for her groundbreaking contributions to the industry, attended the prestigious event held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City on Monday night.
Emerging in a striking ensemble, Wang opted for a dramatic white gown characterised by an exceptionally low neckline that extended almost to her waist. The dress featured intricate black feathers adorning the straps, coupled with a distinctive grey feathered mermaid skirt, that underscored her flair for theatrical fashion. Accompanying her outfit was a new hairstyle, complete with micro bangs, which deviated from her customary middle parting. To complete the look, she wore large aviator sunglasses that partially obscured her face, further contributing to her striking appearance.
As the Met Gala is often described as the "Oscars of the East Coast," it attracts a plethora of high-profile celebrities and figures from the fashion world. This year's event was notable for its menswear theme, titled "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," and was co-chaired by prominent figures including Pharrell Williams, who serves as the Louis Vuitton menswear director, alongside Lewis Hamilton and Colman Domingo. LeBron James, who was named an honorary chair, announced that he would be unable to attend due to a knee injury, with his wife, Savannah James, representing him instead.
The gala was hosted by Teyana Taylor, La La Anthony, and Ego Nwodim, featuring interviews conducted on the blue carpet by Emma Chamberlain. Celebrities including Rihanna, Sydney Sweeney, Hailey Bieber, Zendaya, and Anne Hathaway dazzled on the red carpet, showcasing a variety of eye-catching outfits amidst the star-studded affair.
Wang's notable transformation did not go unnoticed on social media, where many users shared their disbelief and confusion. Comments varied, with some expressing concern for her wellbeing and others even questioning if they were seeing an AI-generated image instead of the designer herself. One user on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, "What happened to Vera Wang?" while another mentioned, "I looked it up because I honestly thought this was AI."
Amid the discussions surrounding her appearance, Vera Wang later removed her sunglasses to pose for more photographs, appearing bare-faced and embracing her unique fashion choices. The reactions from the public highlight the impact of Wang's longstanding reputation in the industry, as even subtle changes to her appearance draw considerable attention.
The Met Gala, a critical fundraiser for the museum's Costume Institute, featured themes inspired by the annual spring exhibition, this year drawing influence from concepts explored in the book "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity" by Monica L. Miller, who served as the guest curator. The exhibition and accompanying gala celebrate the historical and contemporary significance of dandyism, exploring its nuanced relationship with dress, self-expression, and identity.
As the fashion world continues to reflect on the evening’s events, Vera Wang's look serves as a testament to her enduring presence and influence within the industry, while also opening a dialogue about the perceptions of beauty and recognition, especially in an evolving cultural context.
Source: Noah Wire Services