Amidst the architectural marvels and sartorial spectacle of the Met Gala, these South Asian luminaries showcased beauty looks that spoke volumes in sophisticated whispers.

The 2025 Met Gala unfurled its crimson carpet under the banner of “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” with a dress code, “Tailored for You,” that celebrated the intricate artistry and profound cultural resonance of tailoring. This wasn’t an evening for shy restraint; the ambiance thrummed with a considered maximalism. It was a tapestry woven with sculptural silhouettes, conceptual fashion, and beauty that, rather than clamoring for the spotlight, masterfully commanded it.

While the night saw a symphony of razor-sharp lapels and exquisite tailoring, a prevailing beauty narrative emerged: luminous, almost ethereal skin, softly defined “lived-in” eyes, and chic nods to 1920s kiss-curls. Of course, disruptors like Doja Cat and Chappell Roan painted outside these lines with avant-garde flair. Yet, it was the South Asian contingent who truly captured the essence of the theme, delivering looks steeped in refined elegance and rich with thoughtful cultural homages. Their beauty was a masterclass in soft power.

Here are the beauty moments that captivated us:

Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling’s custom Harbison Studios suit, with its striking red velvet accents and crisp white collar, was a direct and dapper interpretation of the evening’s sartorial directive. Her beauty choices, however, infused the look with an undeniable cool. A sleek ponytail, punctuated by gold clips reminiscent of elegant armor, paired beautifully with perfectly smoked-out eyes and understated nude lips. It was a portrait of unfussy freshness and quiet confidence—a woman who knows her power and lets the spotlight find her.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

A veteran of Met Gala moments, Priyanka Chopra Jonas once again demonstrated her innate understanding of the assignment. She graced the event in a stunning white Balmain creation, playfully splashed with black polka dots and topped with a dramatic wide-brimmed hat. Her makeup was a study in nostalgic glamour: luscious berry lips, softly alluring eyes, and a perfect flush of blush that beautifully highlighted her breathtaking 241-carat Bulgari Magnus Emerald pendant.

Kiara Advani

Radiant in Gaurav Gupta and joyfully expecting her first child, Kiara Advani seemed to float down the carpet, a modern reimagining of a Raja Ravi Varma muse. Her sculptural ensemble found its perfect counterpart in a beauty look that whispered of divinity: dewy, glass-like skin, eyes softly lined with a hint of shimmer, and nude, glossy lips. Gentle waves framed her face, creating an ethereal halo effect.

Isha Ambani

Isha Ambani selected a masterful black, white, and gold Anamika Khanna design, featuring a lavishly embroidered waistcoat and a sharply collared jacket. The ensemble felt like a global tribute to craft traditions, yet remained deeply rooted in India’s rich textile heritage. Her makeup echoed this refined artistry: glazed brown lids, subtly sculpted cheekbones, and a nude lip that allowed the intricate embroidery to take center stage. Even her brows were impeccably “tailored”—precise, intentional, and striking that perfect balance between delicate and defined.

Natasha Poonawalla

Always one to embrace maximalism with flair, Natasha Poonawalla channeled dandyism on the 2025 Met Gala red carpet. Her custom Manish Malhotra ensemble was a vibrant homage to her Parsi ancestry. In a masterful stroke of balance, her beauty look was intentionally understated: luminous skin, a soft pink-nude lip, and gently brushed-out eyes. It was a confident choice, allowing the dramatic silhouette and opulent outfit to truly soar, with her beauty glowing in quiet accord.

Diya Mehta Jatia

Diya Mehta Jatia’s custom BLONI creation was a vision of modern mysticism. Crafted from Himalayan cashmere, the sharply structured silhouette cascaded into a train encrusted with 15,000 clear quartz crystals. Her beauty look was equally compelling: enchanting rosy lids, a deep pink lip, and high-drama lashes, all anchored by flawless natural skin. Sculptural ear cuffs caught the light, adding a final touch of avant-garde elegance.

Mona Patel

Following her sensational Met debut last year, Mona Patel returned with undeniable impact, dressed in custom Thom Browne. Her innovative suit-meets-cape-meets-corset creation possessed enough architectural drama to command attention. Yet, it was her makeup that brought the entire look into razor-sharp focus: her bone structure expertly sculpted with bronze, warm-toned eyeshadow, and skin so luminous it seemed buffed by angels. The glam was textbook perfection—flawless yet never overpowering. If modern desi old-money opulence had a face, this might be it.