Ghanaian fashion designer Jude Dontoh captivated the global fashion scene at the 2025 Met Gala with a striking design worn by American music legend Lauryn Hill, marking one of the night’s most talked-about cultural statements.

Hill, making her first-ever Met Gala appearance, stunned in a butter-yellow tuxedo gown designed by Dontoh, co-founder of Ghana's rising fashion house Tribe of God. The gown featured a dramatic sculptural train, detailed embroidery, and bold Afro-spiritual symbolism that echoed royalty and divine presence.

A ceremonial umbrella held above Hill’s head as she walked the steps wasn’t merely a fashion accessory—it referenced the Benkyinie tradition in Ghana, where such umbrellas are used to honor kings and high-status individuals. This powerful cultural nod elevated Hill’s appearance from style to statement.

Paired with a burgundy tie, gold jewelry, and a symbolic sash, the look balanced authority and elegance. A blue Hermès Kelly bag added intentional contrast, reflecting Hill’s dual legacy of strength and femininity.

Dontoh’s attention to detail extended to the gown’s inner lining, textured lapels, and custom embroidery, each element reinforcing his status as a designer who blends storytelling with couture.

Under the gala’s theme, “Tailored for You,” which celebrated Black designers and individuality, Hill’s outfit stood out among over-the-top creations. Her look—recognized among the top three best dressed alongside Rihanna and Madonna—placed African artistry at the center of one of fashion’s most prestigious platforms.

Jude Dontoh, along with Tribe of God co-founders George Malm and Emmanuel Sam-Amoah, continues to shape the global fashion narrative. With past collaborations involving artists like Sean Paul and brands such as Sony and Spotify, Dontoh’s Met Gala moment further cements his growing international influence.

In dressing Lauryn Hill, Dontoh didn’t just design an outfit—he delivered a cultural milestone that blended elegance, power, and unapologetic Black pride.