The 2025 Met Gala witnessed numerous firsts, including the inaugural exhibition dedicated exclusively to Black designers and the event’s first-ever fundraising surpassing $30 million. Amidst these record-breaking moments, a significant return was made. After a hiatus spanning over two decades, disco icon and one-third of The Supremes, Diana Ross, made a triumphant appearance on the Met steps for fashion’s most prestigious night.
Diana Ross. Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
Last seen at the Met Gala in 2003, Ross arrived on Monday, adorned in feathers and sporting an awe-inspiring 18-foot-long train. The star’s hand-embroidered ivory white accessory, which enveloped the carpeted steps when laid flat, required the assistance of five men to carry. However, a subtle detail in the yards of fabric caught the attention of many, as Ross revealed to Vogue carpet-side. “It’s stitched with the names of all my children and my eight grandchildren,” Ross said, describing the dress as a “forever family gown.”
On her arm was her son, Evan Ross, and the co-creator of the look. “She is the best thing. She is the Met Ball,” he told Vogue. Ross collaborated with Ugo Mozie, a Nigerian designer and founder of the fashion label Eleven Sixteen, to bring his mother’s show-stopping ensemble to life. “Family. Heritage. Legacy,” Mozie posted on social media. “I am so grateful to be a part of this special moment. To have co-designed this work of art for an Icon.”
Ross said her son Evan, who joined her at the event, persuaded her to go despite being on tour. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Underneath the larger-than-life train, the Motown singer donned a crystal-embellished spaghetti-strapped gown and a dazzling pair of chandelier earrings. On her head sat a custom, wide-brimmed feathered hat by LA-based milliner Sarah Sokol.
Despite being one of the most memorable outfits of the evening, Ross let slip that her appearance was actually last minute. “There was not a plan,” she said. “My son persuaded me (to come), because I’m actually on tour. He said, ‘Mom, you gotta go.’”
