At the 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, legendary singer Diana Ross made a triumphant return to the red carpet after a 22-year hiatus. The 81-year-old icon captivated attendees with a breathtaking ensemble that paid a heartfelt tribute to her family. Ross donned a shimmering silver gown paired with an extravagant 18-foot feathered shawl, the underside of which was intricately embroidered with the names of her five children and eight grandchildren.
The theme for this year’s Met Gala, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” celebrated Black fashion and dandyism, drawing inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s book “Slaves to Fashion.” Ross’s ensemble, designed in collaboration with Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie, embodied this theme by blending elegance with personal significance. The gown’s design elements, including crystal embellishments and a dramatic feathered hat, highlighted Ross’s enduring influence on fashion and her commitment to honoring her heritage.
Accompanied by her son Evan Ross, who played a pivotal role in persuading her to attend the event, Diana Ross’s appearance was both a personal and cultural statement. Evan expressed his admiration, stating, “She’s the best thing of all time. She is the Met Ball. She—you are the Met Ball, you are the moment”.
Ross’s daughter, Tracee Ellis Ross, also attended the gala, wearing a custom pink and red tailored suit by Marc Jacobs. She praised her mother’s presence, noting, “What I explain to people is that my mother stops time. Obviously, it stops when you look at her, and when she shows up somewhere like this, because she never comes out. It’s a showstopper”.
The 2025 Met Gala highlighted the significance of Black artistry and storytelling in fashion. Ross’s participation underscored the event’s celebration of individuality and cultural heritage, serving as a powerful reminder of the role fashion plays in expressing identity and honoring one’s roots.