On May 5, 2025, fashion lovers watched as the Met Gala unfolded under a theme that resonates deeply with everything English fashion designer Ozwald Boateng has stood for: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. The moment was not just a celebration of fashion, it was a recognition of a journey that has spanned over four decades — a journey led by a designer who transformed the very language of menswear on the global stage.

Known for revitalising Savile Row with bold colours and Ghanaian-inspired designs, Boateng was a natural fit for this year’s Met Gala theme. The first black tailor with a namesake brand on Savile Row — who is credited with dressing icons like Spike Lee and Will Smith — brought a full spectrum of style, heritage, and unapologetic dandyism to the steps of the Met with looks, for stars such as Colin Kaepernick, Burna Boy, Issa Rae, and Tems.

The most meaningful looks, though, were his own and the ones crafted for his children Oscar and Emilia.

From the designer:

Ozwald’s look revisits an iconic piece from his catwalk shoes from the early 2000s: A structured eel skin cape-jacket hybrid shaped like a coat with winged panels. Paired with a white seersucker trouser and waistcoat. The ensemble is a bold declaration of timeless innovation.

Emilia Boateng stuns in a long white seersucker jumpsuit inspired by a classic tuxedo shirting. With a pleated bib detail and clean tailoring, the look merges masculine structure with soft, modern elegance.

Oscar Boateng wears a silver silk jacquard tuxedo adorned with the House’s Adinkra symbol for authenticity. The look is paired with a silk shirt and Custom House Oxfords, featuring broguing fused with Adinkra iconography — a modern statement on heritage.

Boateng’s participation was a powerful affirmation of legacy, identity, and black excellence in menswear.

Boateng also designed looks for Jaden Smith, Ayra Starr, Omar Sy, Henry Golding, Hope Dworaczyk Smith, and Ncuti Gatwa.

CREDITS:

ozwaldboateng.co.uk, IG/
@ozwald_boateng

Fashion designer Ozwald Boateng (left) is pictured arriving at the Met accompanied by his children Oscar and Emilia, in custom looks that echo his bold legacy. (Photo: AFP)