A Bold Tribute to Black Dandyism, Tailoring, and Feminine Strength: Zac Posen, in custom Banana Republic, dresses Laura Harrier in a custom look made in the Gap Studio crafted from raw, natural denim—a nod to Gap’s heritage and denim’s role in self-expression and originality.
New York, NY — May 5, 2025 — Tonight at the 2025 Met Gala, actress Laura Harrier debuted a custom look by Zac Posen, Executive Vice President and Creative Director of Gap Inc. The look was designed in the Gap Studio at the Brand’s headquarters in New York City, where American classics are reimagined through a couture lens.
Integrating Gap’s design heritage with couture-level detailing, the look draws on the brand’s deep authority in denim and natural fibers. The look combines raw, natural denim, shank buttons, and double-needle stitching—hallmarks of the Gap brand —with elongated pant legs cut in double-face duchess silk satin, a fabric more often found in eveningwear than casualwear. Voluminous sheer sleeves in cotton organdie add softness and airiness, echoing Gap’s use of natural textiles like cotton poplin.
This marks Posen’s first-ever Met Gala creation to feature pants—a deliberate, symbolic choice aligned with the evening’s theme: a tribute to Black style, personal presentation, and the historical significance of Black dandyism as a form of elegance, resistance, and self-definition.
“Dandyism was both a form of rebellion and a uniform of entry,” said Posen. “I wanted to honor that dichotomy by applying a sculptural technique to tailoring—treating a pant look with the reverence I typically reserve for a gown.”
The design was also informed by archival family photographs of Harrier’s father and grandfather in their Sunday best, offering a personal connection through which the look celebrates Black heritage, family, and tradition. It is both a tribute and a transformation—uniting workwear and aristocracy, restraint and expression.
GapStudio launched in April 2025 with Collection 01, rooted in expert tailoring, modern silhouettes, and limited-edition drops. The studio’s work is currently appearing on red carpets and aims to bring artistry and accessibility into the global style conversation.
Zac Posen attended the Met Gala wearing a custom Banana Republic suit, the look underscores the brands commitment to quality and craftsmanship – blending American and Italian tailoring with a wool-linen blend from Italy’s esteemed Marzotto mill, tailored by Mr. Ned - the family-owned bespoke suit makers in New York City. The result is a sophisticated, denim-inspired tuxedo that embraces the spirit of dandyism using fabrics that evoke bold contrasts and expressive character.
About Gap Inc.
Gap Inc., a house of iconic brands, is the largest specialty apparel company in America. Its Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta brands offer clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products for men, women and children. Since 1969, Gap Inc. has created products and experiences that shape culture, while doing right by employees, communities and the planet. Gap Inc. products are available worldwide through company-operated stores, franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. Fiscal year 2024 net sales were $15.1 billion. For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com.
About Gap
Gap is a globally recognized icon of casual American style. Founded in San Francisco in 1969, Gap champions originality by creating loved essentials and delivering culturally-relevant experiences that celebrate individuality. Gap is an adult apparel and accessories brand that offers GapKids, babyGap, Gap Maternity, GapBody and GapFit collections. The brand also serves value-conscious customers with exclusively designed collections for Gap Outlet and Gap Factory Stores. Gap is the namesake brand and global specialty retailer, Gap Inc. (NYSE: GAP) and connects with customers online and in company-operated and franchise retail locations globally. For more information, please visit www.gap.com.
About Banana Republic:
Banana Republic is a storyteller's brand, outfitting the modern explorer with high-quality, expertly crafted collections and experiences to inspire and enrich their journeys. Founded in 1978 in San Francisco, Banana Republic connects with customers across online and company-operated and franchise retail locations globally. For more information, please visit www.bananarepublic.com and follow @BananaRepublic on social channels.