When Ayra Starr learned that she had been invited to the 2025 Met Gala, the “Fashion Killer” songstress was in disbelief. “I was on set filming and all I could say was ‘Stoppp!’” Starr told ESSENCE. “When reality sank in, all I felt was excitement and zoomies about what I was going to be wearing for my debut.”
A 22-year-old Afrobeats sensation, Starr has always been lauded for her ethereal, celestial style. She attributes her dress sense to the matriarchs of her family, her mother and aunt, specifically. Raised between Benin and Nigeria, her otherworldly aesthetic is not limited to one source. Starr said, “I get inspired [by] different things and people around me.”
Whether she’s performing at Paris Fashion Week or embracing a new persona in a music video, Starr has never been one to shy away from experimenting with her hair, nails, and various modes of self-expression. The dress code for the event: “Tailored for You,” an ode to the Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute’s upcoming exhibition on Black Dandyism—required Starr and her stylist Karen Binns to expand her universe even further. “The theme itself made me think outside of the box because I wanted to do a mix of modern and old,” she said. “But I love a good challenge and owned it.”
Starr made her Met Gala debut in a custom look designed by British-Ghanaian Ozwald Boateng, a master tailor whose craftsmanship and creative use of color redefined the menswear paradigm. In 1995, Boateng was the first Black tailor to open an eponymous storefront on Savile Row in London. Wearing a tuxedo dress with tribal mohair and a black satin label, Starr turned heads on the blue carpet with a deep v-neck, high leg slit, and open back. The dress mimicked a trench coat silhouette and was lined with blue-turquoise fabric on the interior. The artist also wore an eloquent necklace by Repossi.
A proud June baby, Starr wanted to showcase her blue birthstone throughout the look, from her gemstone jewelry to her sharp, long nails. “The long nails stand for expressionism, confidence, and poise which are traits synonymous with Black style,” said Starr. The energy she aimed to exude on fashion’s biggest night? Polished. There’s no better person to help Starr achieve her goal than Boateng.
She said, “Ozwald is a genius, one whom I respect deeply. Being an African, I love how his designs pay homage to the culture. I wanted something simple, elegant yet well-tailored in line with the theme which is what the entire look was about.”
The idea, Starr said, is to merge classic and timeless elements that also nod to the future, hence her walking stick that doubles as binoculars, while staying true to simplicity. As she got ready for the Met Gala, she reflected on her ascent since her breakout hit, “Rush.” Over the past five years, Starr has ushered in a new era of African music, led by women such as herself, Tems, and Tyla who attended the gala before her. She remains grounded but grateful for the journey.
“Above all,” said Starr, “it makes me feel great that I can inspire other young Africans. There is no limit to the things they can achieve and the rooms they can enter, only if they keep reaching for the stars,” she added.
Moments ahead of heading to the 2025 Met Gala, global artist Ayra Starr gets a makeup touch up by Lake Sanu.
The options pulled by Ayra Starr’s stylist Karen Binns.
Pulled by Ayra Starr’s stylist and team, Karen Binns, the options offer differing hues and details.
A glimpse at Ayra Starr’s single tooth grill.
Ayra Starr’s elite nail game for the night by Angel Linh.
Icon and designer Ozwald Boateng’s creation.
Another look at Ozwald Boateng’s custom design.
Ahead of Ayra Starr heading to the 2025 Met Gala, the global artist showcases jewelry on her back and ear.
A glimpse at the intentional jewelry choices featuring Repossi by stylist Karen Binns and the makeup look by Lake Sanu. Hair was brilliantly executed by Hannah Ayegbusi.
This shot emphasizes the smoky lip look by Lake Sanu.
This moment with a cane features the elegant look designed by Ozwald Boateng.
Ayra poses minutes ahead of heading to the 2025 Met Gala.
In this shot you’re able to take note of Ayra Starr’s ensemble which features a hint of electric blue.
In its entirety, Ayra Starr’s ensemble showcased how Black Dandyism can be elegant and edgy at the same time.
Credits:
Hotel: Four Seasons New York
Second Location: WSA
Photographer: Shatimah Brathwaite
Stylist: Karen Binns
Dress: Ozwald Boateng
Necklace: Repossi
Hair: Hannah Ayegbusi
Makeup: Lake Sanu
Manicurist: Angel Linh