The 2025 Met Gala fashion’s biggest and most exclusive night-is set to light up the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art once again. While the red carpet delivers headline-grabbing looks and viral moments, what happens inside remains largely a mystery to the public. That’s no accident- tight regulations, a curated guest list, and a meticulously planned evening ensure the Met Gala retains its legendary status.
This year’s theme, 'Tailored for You,' aligns with the Costume Institute’s latest exhibition, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, which celebrates the legacy of Black Dandyism, bespoke fashion, and the influence of Black designers throughout history.
Here’s a look at what goes on behind the scenes and the rules that make the Met Gala such a tightly run spectacle.
No phones allowed
Once the red carpet cameras stop flashing, all personal devices are expected to be tucked away. A strict 'no phones, no selfies' policy is in place throughout the event. While some stars have historically snapped a few cheeky bathroom mirror selfies, official footage from the private tour, dinner, and live performance is never released. This rule preserves the exclusivity of the evening and discourages distractions.
No garlic, No onion, No parsley
What’s on the menu? Only foods that won’t clash with couture. Guests enjoy gourmet dishes specially selected to avoid any breath-altering ingredients-garlic, onion, and parsley are strictly off-limits. This is partly to avoid awkward social encounters and partly to prevent those unsightly herb-speckled smiles in close-up photos. Similarly, messy or crumbly foods like bruschetta are avoided to protect garments from stains.
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No Smoking-seriously
Smoking is another hard no. With priceless fashion history on display and high-end designer looks everywhere, the risk of smoke damage or lingering odor is not taken lightly. While some celebrities have found loopholes in the past-sneaking off to the restroom for a cigarette-it’s considered a major faux pas. In fact, lighting up in the galleries is one of the fastest ways to ensure you don’t get invited back.
No free entry- even for celebrities
Though it’s invitation-only, attending the Met Gala comes with a hefty price tag. In 2024, individual tickets reportedly cost $75,000, while an entire table went for $350,000. Celebrities often have their seats sponsored by fashion brands eager to have their designs featured on the red carpet. It’s easy to forget, but the gala is also a fundraiser for the Met’s Costume Institute, helping to maintain its collection of historical garments.
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively |
No spouses together
Who you sit next to is entirely up to the organizers. The seating chart is crafted months in advance, beginning as early as December. Relationship dynamics, networking opportunities, and chemistry between guests are all considered. Spouses and partners are often seated apart to encourage mingling. According to Vogue’s special projects director, even if you paid top dollar for your seat, you won’t get to choose your dinner companion.
In the end, the Met Gala is much more than a glamorous party. It’s a carefully choreographed celebration of art, history, identity, and design-every detail considered, every moment curated.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas at Met Gala | X
Anna Wintour approved dress code
Even if you’ve scored an invite and paid your way in, your outfit still needs the green light from Vogue editor-in-chief and event chair Anna Wintour. Each ensemble must reflect the theme and meet her high standards. The approval process is so formalized that the phrase 'AWOK' (Anna Wintour OK) has become shorthand in the fashion world.
