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

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