Behind the Seams: My Journey Styling Kiara Advani for the 2025 Met Gala
The Met Gala has always been the pinnacle of fashion's intersection with culture, art, and identity. In 2025, the event took on profound significance with its theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," . This theme delved into the rich history and cultural impact of Black dandyism, exploring how fashion has been a tool for self-expression and resistance within the Black community.
As an assistant fashion stylist to the esteemed Anaita Shroff Adajania, I had the honor of contributing to this narrative by helping style the radiant Kiara Advani. Our collaboration aimed to pay homage to the theme while celebrating Kiara's personal journey and the artistry of Indian design.
Embracing the Theme: "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style"
The 2025 Met Gala's theme was inspired by Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. The exhibition examined how Black individuals have used fashion to assert identity, challenge societal norms, and express creativity. It was a celebration of the elegance, resilience, and innovation inherent in Black style.
Understanding this context was crucial in our styling process. We aimed to create a look for Kiara that resonated with the theme's essence—honoring the spirit of self-expression and cultural pride.
Crafting the Look: Collaboration and Creativity
Kiara's ensemble was a masterpiece by designer Gaurav Gupta. The outfit featured intricate tailoring and avant-garde elements that mirrored the sophistication and boldness central to Black dandyism. The design's fluid lines and structured silhouette symbolized a blend of tradition and modernity, aligning with the theme's exploration of historical and contemporary fashion narratives.
Our team collaborated with several accessory brands to complement the outfit. Each piece was thoughtfully selected to enhance the ensemble's narrative, adding layers of meaning and elegance.
The Emotional Journey: Behind the Scenes
Working on this project was more than a professional endeavor; it was a deeply personal and emotional journey. Witnessing Kiara embrace her role in this cultural moment, and seeing the fusion of Indian artistry with a theme celebrating Black excellence, was profoundly moving.
The process involved meticulous planning, from conceptual discussions to final fittings. Every detail was scrutinized to ensure authenticity and respect for the theme. The experience reinforced the power of fashion as a medium for storytelling and cultural dialogue.
Reflections: A Moment of Pride
Participating in the 2025 Met Gala was a milestone in my career. It was an opportunity to contribute to a global conversation on fashion, identity, and culture. Styling Kiara Advani for this event allowed me to merge my passion for fashion with a commitment to meaningful representation.
This experience underscored the importance of inclusivity and the celebration of diverse narratives in the fashion industry. It reminded me that fashion is not just about aesthetics; it's about honoring stories, histories, and identities.
