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Diana Ross, 81, captivates Met Gala red carpet with enormous gown after 22-year hiatus

Ross’s daughter Tracee Ellis Ross also walked the Met Gala red carpet

Caitlin Hornik
in New York
Tuesday 06 May 2025 00:43 BST
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Diana Ross arrives at 2025 Met Gala in gown that takes up entire red carpet

Diana Ross made a captivating return to the Met Gala red carpet following a 22-year hiatus.

The “Endless Love” singer — who first attended the Met Gala in 1978 but was last seen at the event wearing Gucci in 2003 — sported an all-silver and white ensemble, including a tight-fitting sequined dress and an 18-foot feathered cape with an extensive train. The silver embroidery included the names of her children and grandchildren.

Complimenting her dress and train were Ross’s headpiece, a feathered halo-shaped hat, accompanied by silver dangling earrings and face jewels.

Ross, 81, was accompanied on the carpet by her son, Evan, who helped design the show-stopping look. He, along with Ross herself and Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie, collaborated on the ensemble, Vogue reported.

A team of at least six people was spotted fluffing Ross’ train, pausing the procession of stars for an extended moment.

In addition to Evan and Tracee, the names of Ross’ other children — Rhonda, Chudney, and Ross — and her eight grandchildren — Raif, Callaway, Everlee, Leif, Indigo, Jagger, Bronx, and Ziggy — were all embroidered on the train of her gown.

Diana Ross walked the Met Gala red carpet for the first time since 2003
Diana Ross walked the Met Gala red carpet for the first time since 2003 (REUTERS)

The beading and jewel work on the train appeared to extend like tree branches, leading to the familial names.

Speaking to Vogue’s red carpet livestream host La La Anthony, Ross said she didn’t entirely have a plan for the look.

Ross collaborated with her son and Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie on the look
Ross collaborated with her son and Nigerian designer Ugo Mozie on the look (Getty Images)

"Well, there was not a plan. Everything was really, really at last moment. My son persuaded me, 'cause I'm actually on tour," Ross shared. She noted that it was Evan who encouraged her to attend.

Fans were quick to praise Ross for the look — and for her return to the iconic event.

A team of at least six people needed to help Ross with her train
A team of at least six people needed to help Ross with her train (AFP via Getty Images)

“Diana Ross showing up and reminding everyone who tf she is,” one person wrote on X.

“Man, Diana Ross is gonna show up and deliver, no matter what. This is stunning,” another said.

Ross' Met Gala train was embroidered with the names of her children and grandchildren
Ross' Met Gala train was embroidered with the names of her children and grandchildren (Getty Images)

“Diana Ross was the best of the night, I don't care about anyone else,” someone else wrote.

Another chimed in: “Diana Ross shut down the met gala in that gown!”

Ross’ Met Gala look shut down the red carpet
Ross’ Met Gala look shut down the red carpet (Matt Crossick/PA Wire)

Evan was sporting a look that appeared to be inspired by the late Michael Jackson, many fans noted. He was also sporting a pair of Aviator Mirror Sunglasses from Ray-Ban.

“On the most iconic red carpet in fashion, Evan Ross — son of the legendary Diana Ross — surprised everyone with a look inspired by none other than Michael Jackson!” one fan wrote on X.

Evan Ross walked his mother, Diana, down the red carpet at the Met Gala in a Michael Jackson-inspired outfit
Evan Ross walked his mother, Diana, down the red carpet at the Met Gala in a Michael Jackson-inspired outfit (Getty Images)

Ross’s daughter, Tracee Ellis Ross, walked the carpet after her in a bright pink all-satin suit by Marc Jacobs, custom hat by Stephen Jones, and jewelry by Material Good.

The ensemble catered to the event’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” and dress code, “Tailored for You,” which celebrate the opening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s forthcoming spring exhibition, which will be open to the public between May 10 and October 26.

Tracee Ellis Ross walked the carpet in a Marc Jacobs suit
Tracee Ellis Ross walked the carpet in a Marc Jacobs suit (Getty Images for The Met Museum/)

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