Former Vice President Kamala Harris made an unexpected appearance at the 2025 Met Gala in New York Monday, marking her first time at the annual fashion event. Harris, accompanied by her husband Doug Emhoff, attended the benefit for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute wearing a custom black-and-white gown by Off-White.
The appearance follows Harris's defeat in the 2024 presidential election and signals a return to the public stage. She has given two speeches recently, including remarks at the Emerge Gala last week where she criticized the first 100 days of the Trump administration.
While Harris and Emhoff did not walk the blue carpet, photos show the former vice president in an elegant silk design featuring an asymmetrical cape sleeve and a long scarf. The look was designed by Off-White creative director IB Kamara.
Harris was invited by Vogue editor-in-chief and Met Gala co-chair Anna Wintour, according to her spokesperson. The event's theme celebrated the Costume Institute's exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which explores the history of Black dandyism.
Harris discussed the connection between artistic expression and public life in an interview published ahead of the event. "Art has always had a significant impact on not just culture, but also our policies and politics," she stated.
The exhibition's focus on Black sartorial history takes place during a time of debate surrounding arts funding and the content of museum displays. The Trump administration has called for ending federal funding for the arts and has targeted Smithsonian museums over certain exhibitions.
Politicians have attended the event in past years. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton attended in 2022, and US representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made an appearance in 2021. Former President Ronald Reagan attended in 1977. Wintour stated in 2017 that President Trump would not be invited back to the event.
Harris's appearance coincides with ongoing speculation regarding her political future. Sources suggest she is considering options, including a potential bid for California governor in 2026 or another presidential campaign in 2028.
Off-White creative director IB Kamara commented on Harris's embodiment of the dandyism spirit, stating, "To me the true core of dandyism is rooted in confidence and strength. There is no person who exemplifies these characteristics more than Kamala D. Harris, someone who has overcome adversity and continues to be a beacon for so many."
