Shah Rukh Khan became the first Indian male actor to walk up the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City for the world’s biggest fundraiser event on fashion, art and popular culture—the Met Gala 2025.
The Bollywood superstar made an appearance in a custom-tailored black suit that included high-waisted trousers, a black shirt, and a tailcoat. The deep neckline of the shirt was adorned with statement jewels, including chunky silver chains in pearl, a choker, an SRK locket, and intricately designed finger rings.
But, stealing the spotlight was a bold diamond-studded ‘K’ pendant (representing King Khan) that lent the regal touch.
A pair of stylish sunglasses and his naturally brown hair—subtly streaked with grey—completed the look.
Adding to the grandeur, SRK, styled by Shaleena Nathani, carried a royal dandy scepter, reminiscent of those once wielded by kings.
Khan’s look was put together by designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, who was himself a celebrity model at the event in his black and white ensemble. Last year, he had created the saree for actor Alia Bhatt.
The designer walked the blue carpet in a white shirt, layered with a trench coat and an overcoat with a trail. He paired it with black high-waisted trousers and shiny black shoes — quite identical to SRK.
For accessories, he opted for a choker and multiple rings. And, completed his tailored look with a traditional headgear. This is the second time he has walked the carpet on fashion’s biggest night.
Apart from SRK, actors Kiara Advani and Diljit Dosanjh also made their Met Gala debut.
Advani, in a custom Gaurav Gupta gown, was seen sporting her baby bump. The outfit had a golden breastplate and an overflowing trail.
Also read: Jennifer Garner never went back to Met Gala after 2007 appearance, here is why
‘Black Dandyism’
The first Monday in May is dedicated to the world’s most fashionable fundraiser, the Met Gala 2025.
The guests were supposed to be outfitted in tailored garments as the evening’s theme, or dress code, is “Tailored For You.”
This year, Condé Nast Chief Content Officer Anna Wintour will co-chair with Colman Domingo, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton and A$AP Rocky.
Black dandyism is a power tool representing the ascension of Afro-Americans, who rose in society and adopted the White man’s style to demand their parity and inclusion into privileged society.
For the dandy, fashion was a vehicle for both self-expression and a subtle form of rebellion against societal norms. In the past, they have used flamboyant fashion to express pride and resistance.
In a world where Black people have been marginalised, the dandy became a figure who defied the rigid categories of race and class that sought to confine them.
Most importantly, they broke the White man’s stereotype of what a Black man should be.
(Edited by Anurag Chaubey)