The 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcased the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which celebrated the rich history and cultural significance of Black dandyism. This year’s gala emphasized not just fashion but the deeper narratives tied to Black identity and expression, marking a pivotal moment in the event’s history.
Black dandyism, a tradition rooted in elegance, defiance, and self-definition, has its origins in the 18th century. It serves as a powerful statement against the marginalization of Black individuals, allowing them to reclaim their identity through sartorial choices. The theme was inspired by Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book, "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity," which explores the complexities of Black identity through fashion.
Co-chair Colman Domingo expressed the significance of the theme, stating, "I'm recognising that it means more to me than I even imagined. It's someone who's been creating art and spaces who has knowledge and history, who's always trying to interrogate who we are, and understanding who's come before." Domingo’s own attire—a blue robe reminiscent of the late stylist André Leon Talley—was a testament to the cultural heritage that the gala aimed to celebrate.
Zendaya also made waves on the red carpet, donning a tailored white suit that paid homage to Diana Ross’s iconic look in the 1975 film "Mahogany." This nod to historical figures in Black fashion highlighted the gala's focus on menswear and the broader implications of Black dandyism.
Pharrell Williams, another co-chair and a prominent figure in fashion, wore a custom double-breasted pearl blazer adorned with 100,000 pearls, a design that took 980 hours to create. Williams described dandyism as a "sport of getting dressed" that goes beyond mere aesthetics to encompass self-expression and freedom. "For Black people to hit that mark or exceed it, and be consistent with it, is a matter of pride," he noted, emphasizing the cultural significance of the evening.
Janelle Monáe, known for her bold fashion statements, collaborated with Oscar-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell and designer Thom Browne for her gala ensemble. Monáe wore a sparkling ethical diamond brooch from 1800 Tequila, crafted from tequila rather than mined from the earth, symbolizing a more conscious approach to fashion. She remarked, "It felt like the right statement to make in fashion," emphasizing the importance of honoring her ancestors through her attire.
The Met Gala’s focus on Black dandyism is not just a celebration of style but a reclamation of cultural narratives often overlooked in mainstream fashion. Ruth E. Carter, the first Black woman to win an Oscar for costume design, remarked, "Black Dandyism is a form of performance, identity, and individuality. It's how we define ourselves. It's a cultural declaration—male or female, or any gender. It's genderless." Carter’s work has consistently highlighted the intersection of fashion and identity, making her insights particularly relevant to this year’s theme.
Throughout the night, attendees showcased their interpretations of the "Tailored For You" dress code, which encouraged creative expressions of the Black dandy aesthetic. The focus on tailored suits and accessories, often associated with menswear, allowed for a diverse range of styles, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Black identity.
The gala is not without its criticisms, particularly regarding the exclusivity and opulence that often accompany such high-profile events. While the celebration of Black dandyism is a significant step forward, it also raises questions about accessibility and representation within the fashion industry. The Met Gala has historically profited from Black creativity while often excluding Black voices from its narrative.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that the 2025 Met Gala would be remembered not just for its fashion but for its cultural impact. The celebration of Black dandyism served as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of Black individuals throughout history, challenging societal norms and redefining identity through style.
In a time when political and social tensions surrounding race are heightened, the gala’s theme resonated deeply. The celebration of Black dandyism stands as a form of resistance against ongoing marginalization, asserting that Black culture is rich, vibrant, and deserving of recognition. The event not only honored past icons but also paved the way for future generations to express their identities unapologetically.
As attendees left the red carpet, they did so not just adorned in exquisite garments but also carrying the weight of history and the promise of future expression. The 2025 Met Gala proved to be a landmark event, one that will echo in the annals of fashion history for its bold embrace of Black dandyism and its commitment to redefining the narrative surrounding Black identity.
