Met Gala 2025 was awash with stars wearing tuxedos, pants … and little else. It’s about female strength, experts suggest
The 2025 Met Gala, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” not only celebrated Black dandyism and menswear but also spotlighted a bold fashion statement: the resurgence of the “no trousers” or “day knicker” trend. This daring style, characterized by high-fashion underwear or bodysuits worn without traditional bottoms, took center stage, challenging conventional dress codes and redefining red carpet norms.
The Met Gala’s Pantless Parade
Despite the gala’s emphasis on tailored elegance, several attendees embraced the pantless trend, merging avant-garde fashion with personal expression. Notably, K-pop sensation Lisa of Blackpink donned Louis Vuitton panties that sparked controversy due to their resemblance to Rosa Parks, igniting discussions about cultural sensitivity and fashion’s role in social commentary .
Simultaneously, celebrities like Sabrina Carpenter and Natasha Lyonne showcased variations of the trend. Carpenter’s no-pants ensemble and Lyonne’s sheer striped maxi dress with visible high-waisted underwear highlighted the versatility and boldness of the style .
A Trend with Historical Roots
The “no trousers” trend isn’t entirely new. Fashion houses like Miu Miu previously introduced beaded silk panties on the runway, and models such as Kendall Jenner have famously embraced the look at past Met Galas . Bella Hadid also contributed to the trend’s resurgence by featuring micro shorts in her fragrance campaign, reinforcing the style’s presence in both high fashion and commercial spheres .
Cultural Implications and Critiques
While the trend garners attention for its boldness, it also faces criticism. Some fashion commentators argue that the pantless look, under the guise of non-binary or gender-fluid fashion, often perpetuates narrow beauty standards and lacks genuine inclusivity . The juxtaposition of the trend against the Met Gala’s theme of celebrating Black style further complicates its reception, prompting debates about authenticity and representation in fashion.
The Future of the ‘Day Knicker’ Trend
As fashion continues to evolve, the “day knicker” trend exemplifies the industry’s push towards boundary-pushing aesthetics and the redefinition of traditional attire. Whether seen as a form of empowerment or a controversial statement, the trend undeniably reflects the dynamic interplay between fashion, culture, and societal norms.
