Angela Bassett Pays Tribute to Congo’s La Sape at 2025 Met Gala

Seeing a Black Hollywood icon give credit where it's due was refreshing. Angela Bassett turned heads at the 2025 Met Gala for her elegance and powerful tribute to La Sape, the iconic Congolese fashion movement.

This year’s theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," was a perfect stage for honoring African contributions to global fashion. Bassett's look, inspired by the dapper elegance and cultural pride of Congolese sapeurs, was a celebration of style as resistance, artistry, and identity.

For many of us in the diaspora, it was more than a fashion statement—it was a moment of recognition. Congo’s La Sape finally took its rightful place under the spotlight, stitching into international high fashion fabric.