Naomi Campbell is expected to miss the 2025 Met Gala following her public dispute with Anna Wintour of Vogue during a fashion event in 2024. Despite appearing on 66 Vogue covers and being a long-time fixture at the gala, her absence has ignited controversy within the fashion community.
Tensions flared at the 2024 Harlem’s Fashion Row event during New York Fashion Week, where Wintour, presenting an award to Campbell, quipped about her habitual lateness: “I’m very punctual, but I’m honouring someone often late.” In her speech, Campbell, arriving late and missing Wintour’s segment, retorted, “It wasn’t my choice to have the other lady,” referring to Harper’s Bazaar’s Samira Nasr, who presented instead.
Naomi Campbell 'is BANNED from Met Gala after attending the biggest night in fashion 21 times amid feud with Vogue's Anna Wintour' https://t.co/w4KZhpGMFD
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) May 5, 2025
A source told The Sun, “Naomi shot herself in the stiletto with that comment. You don’t throw shade at Wintour and expect her red carpet.”
Naomi Campbell sensationally banned from Met Galahttps://t.co/tLbniw4ssO pic.twitter.com/m9KinCHKqW
— The Sun (@TheSun) May 4, 2025
Campbell, a Met Gala icon, claimed in a YouTube video that age and stress prompted her withdrawal, saying, “I’m too old. It’s too much anxiety.” However, insiders suggest Wintour’s influence led to her exclusion from the 2025 event, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” co-chaired by Colman Domingo, Pharrell Williams, and others. The rift has fueled speculation about Campbell’s future in high-profile fashion circles.
Following her clash with Anna Wintour, Naomi Campbell’s reported exclusion from the 2025 Met Gala marks a significant shift for the fashion icon. As the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” event approaches, her absence highlights the power dynamics within the fashion industry and raises questions about inclusivity. This controversy continues to engage both fans and industry insiders.