If there’s anyone who knows how to turn style into a statement, it’s A$AP Rocky. For Vogue’s May 2025 Met Gala issue, he’s the man of the moment—and rightfully so. Fresh off a major court case where he was found not guilty, Rocky is back, relaxed, and refocused. And where better to shoot his big comeback cover than Harlem—his hometown, his roots, his vibe.
A Harlem Story
Rocky, photographed in the Harlem home of Langston Hughes, wears a Todd Snyder suit, Balmain shoes, Mikimoto earrings, and a Joseph Saidian & Sons brooch. Portrait of Hughes: Library of Congress, Washington, DC/Jack Delano.
The cover shoot takes place in a beautiful church in Harlem, right across from Langston Hughes’ old brownstone. It’s full of meaning, history, and style. Rocky pulls up with old-school Louis Vuitton trunks, custom coats, and yes—even a candle lit to set the mood. What makes it even more special? He shares the moment with his grandmother, Cathy, who sits next to him in a red suit and pearls. It’s all love, all Harlem, all Rocky.
Life After the Trial
Jacquemus coat and shoes. Balmain suit, shirt, and tie. Ray-Ban sunglasses. Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany & Co. earrings and ring.
Just eight days after his court win, Rocky is already back in work mode. He’s recording music in a cozy Soho House suite turned mini-studio, but still makes space for the people he loves—his sons, RZA and Riot, and of course, Rihanna. He’s sipping chamomile tea, chatting with friends, and reflecting on how the trial reminded him to focus on what truly matters.
“I love people,” he says, with calm confidence. And honestly? You can feel it. Everyone around him seems genuinely happy to be in his space.
Mr. Met Gala
Louis Vuitton Men’s suit, scarf, and his personal trunks. A mix of Van Cleef & Arpels and his own brooches. Jacob & Co. watch.
Oh, and did we mention? Rocky is one of the co-chairs of this year’s Met Gala. When asked about it, he simply says, “Who else?” with a smirk. Fashion runs deep for him—not just the clothes, but the culture. From pearls to kilts, Rocky’s style has always been bold. But to him, it’s just normal Harlem stuff. “We showed y’all how to do this,” he says, speaking for the whole neighborhood.
He’s especially excited about this year’s exhibit—“Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”—because it’s about time the world paid attention to the legacy of Black fashion.
Dad Mode Activated
Lanvin top, coat, and bag. Emporio Armani pants. Tiffany & Co. brooch. Ray-Ban sunglasses.
One of the sweetest parts of the story? Seeing Rocky as a father. He lights up when he talks about his kids and says his love for Rihanna is “internal, external, infinite.” Grandma Cathy agrees—she thinks Rihanna is the real deal, and she couldn’t be prouder of Rocky’s journey.
He’s gone from Harlem kid to global icon, but family still comes first. “I got to see love growing up,” he says. “Now I’m giving it.”
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TEAM
Photographed by: @tylersphotos
Written by: @leahfayec
Styled by: @luxurylaw
Hair by: @tasha_worldofstyles
Grooming by: @chelbomb
Makeup by: @alovethepro
Produced by: @roscoproduction
Set design by: @frau.juliawagner.
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