Rihanna and A$AP Rocky | Source: Getty Images

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Step Out for Date Night at the 2025 Gotham Awards, Sparking Heated Reactions — Photos

Dec 01, 2025

09:37 P.M.

While the couple arrived in style, some viewers on social media compared the makeup mogul's appearance to everyday items like fitted sheets and lampshades.

Fenty Beauty founder Rihanna and rapper A$AP Rocky stepped into the spotlight at the 35th Gotham Awards on December 1, 2025, serving up high fashion and sparking a flurry of online reactions.

The power couple, known for their fearless style, made a dramatic entrance at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City — instantly becoming one of the night's most talked-about appearances.

Rihanna wore a voluminous pastel-pink gown with a sweeping train, an off-the-shoulder neckline, and sleek black opera gloves. She completed the striking look with a matching pink cap and a chunky jewel-toned necklace. Her bold eye makeup and soft lip color only added to the outfit's high-fashion flair.

Standing beside her, A$AP Rocky opted for a more classic approach. Dressed in a sharp black suit with a white shirt and slim black tie, he added a modern twist with a leather handbag and minimal jewelry, letting their coordinated presence do the talking.

But the internet had its own take. While the couple posed confidently on the red carpet, social media users had mixed reactions to Rihanna's look.

On Facebook, one commenter remarked, "OK on a positive note… I really like that hat. And he is a handsome guy." Another chimed in, "It's a new phase of her life. She's financially set, got her man and kids, she just wants to be comfortable and have fun. I like it."

Another viewer shared, "Not one of her usual knock-out looks, but hey when ya [sic] cute, you can wear anything."

Instagram users, meanwhile, were more critical. One joked, "Looks like a fitted sheet and lampshade with feathers 🤭." Another quipped, "Looks like a lamp." Another critic added, "Imagine having insane wealth and wearing a bird on your head and pink parachute. 🪂"

Others were more blunt, with one stating, "Don't like this look on her," and another observing, "I don't care that it's high fashion; it's tragic."

But the scrutiny didn't stop at fashion. Some speculated about the couple's mood, with one Instagrammer noting, "They must've had an argument before this because their energy is off," while another clarified, "Their energy is off. Not necessarily with each other."

Despite the mixed feedback, the couple's appearance dominated the digital conversation. Rihanna and A$AP Rocky once again proved that, whether celebrated or critiqued, they remain at the center of style discourse.

Take a look at Rihanna and A$AP Rocky's stunning look from the occasion!

35th Gotham Awards

December 1, 2025

Rihanna poses solo against a lush green backdrop, wearing a pink off-shoulder gown and matching cap, her bold eye makeup and jeweled necklace adding a fierce touch to the look.

A$AP Rocky and Rihanna stand in perfect profile, facing forward with serious expressions. Their poised, statuesque presence captures a quiet, fashion-forward intensity on the red carpet.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky stand side by side on the red carpet, serving coordinated elegance — she in soft pink with gloves, he in a sleek black suit and tie, both exuding quiet confidence.

Striking a full-length pose, A$AP Rocky and Rihanna lean into fashion drama — her flowing gown spills across the carpet while he keeps it cool in a structured, all-black ensemble.

Captured mid-stride, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky walk hand in hand through a crowd. She clutches her gown while he leads with focus, both looking composed and stylish in motion.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are seen from behind as they arrive, hand in hand. Her dramatic gown flows with every step, while he walks ahead with purpose, carrying a black leather bag.

Rihanna extends her gloved arm across A$AP Rocky as they cross a busy street, her gown trailing behind. He leads the way, surrounded by onlookers and security.

Rihanna stands confidently on the red carpet, her gaze turned to the side with calm poise. The pale pink gown pools elegantly at her feet, while black gloves give the look a bold contrast.

Rihanna stands alone in front of the Gotham Awards step-and-repeat, letting her dramatic train and matching accessories take center stage in a commanding red carpet moment.

A$AP Rocky adjusts his collar while posing against a green backdrop, giving a cool, confident stare. His tailored black suit and signature accessories complete the refined look.

Poised and camera-ready, A$AP Rocky poses with a calm, almost distant expression. The loose fit of his black suit softens the formal look, giving it effortless street-style appeal.

A$AP Rocky and Rihanna pose shoulder to shoulder in full glam. Her hand tucks under his arm as they face the press wall, blending personal poise with red carpet formality. | Source: Instagram/people

Rihanna looks directly at Rocky while he gazes ahead, the pair standing close in contrasting energy. Her gloved hand rests on her hip, capturing a moment of subtle tension and elegance. | Source: Instagram/people

Rihanna adjusts the bottom of her dress, possibly to move more easily, while A$AP Rocky stands beside her. They focus on the moment in front of the Gotham Awards backdrop. | Source: Instagram/people