Sydney Sweeney's Vintage-Inspired Elegance at the 2025 Met Gala
Actress Sydney Sweeney captivated attendees at the 2025 Met Gala with a stunning vintage-inspired look that paid homage to Hollywood's Golden Age. The event, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, celebrated the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," focusing on Black dandyism and menswear. Sweeney's ensemble, however, drew inspiration from classic Old Hollywood glamour, sparking both admiration and debate among fashion enthusiasts.
Red Carpet Look
Sweeney donned a black beaded Miu Miu gown featuring a keyhole cutout at the bust, cap sleeves, and fringe detailing. The dress was a nod to Kim Novak's costume from the 1968 film The Legend of Lylah Clare, a choice that aligns with Sweeney's upcoming role portraying Novak in the film Scandalous!, directed by Colman Domingo. The gown's design also subtly referenced Joan Crawford's dress from the 1937 film The Bride Wore Red, originally made in scarlet.
Hair and Makeup
Complementing her gown, Sweeney's hairstylist, Glen “Coco” Oropeza, styled her hair in a sleek updo with a pin curl and two forehead-gracing kiss curls, reminiscent of 1920s glamour. Her makeup featured retro double-winged eyeliner, enhancing the vintage aesthetic.
Tribute to Kim Novak
In interviews, Sweeney explained that her look was a tribute to Kim Novak, whom she is set to portray in Scandalous!. The film explores Novak's relationship with Sammy Davis Jr. during the 1950s, a romance that faced significant societal challenges. Sweeney's choice to honor Novak at the Met Gala underscores her deep connection to the role and the film's themes.
While Sweeney's vintage-inspired look stood out on the red carpet, it also sparked discussions about the Met Gala's theme and the representation of Black dandyism. Some critics questioned the alignment of her ensemble with the event's focus, highlighting the complexities of interpreting fashion themes through personal lenses.
Regardless of the discourse, Sydney Sweeney's appearance at the 2025 Met Gala was a testament to her evolving fashion sensibility and her ability to blend classic influences with contemporary interpretations, leaving a lasting impression on the fashion world.