The Evolving Spectacle of Black Dandyism at the Met Gala
Gala event marks a milestone by spotlighting the style and elegance of Black male designers and models.
Stepping into the limelight, Black men and their fashion prowess will take center stage at the Met Gala, New York's glitzy event. Taking inspiration from Monica L. Miller's bestselling book, "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Disasporic Identity," the 2025 theme - "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" - is an ode to Black men's versatile and globally influential style.
In an interview about creating Vogue's Met Gala issue, Miller shed light on the deep-rooted connection between fashion, power, and self-expression. "Black style is deeply tied to the degree of agency one feels," she said, emphasizing how fashion serves as a medium for people to express themselves in response to their circumstances.
Miller, the curator of the Costume Institute's spring exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is bringing Black dandyism to the forefront. Originating in the 18th century as a term for a meticulously dressed man who appreciates life's finer things, dandyism today transcends simple definitions. In the Vogue video, Black actors, athletes, entertainers, and celebrities described dandyism as a representation of Black excellence, confidence, and personal expression.
Black dandyism, dating back to the Harlem Renaissance (1918-1930s), emerged as a celebration in times that were not socially or politically celebratory for Black people. Miller's book reveals the transformative power of dandyism in these contexts. "When the dandy is Black," Miller explained, "we see a figure that encapsulates a complex matrix of identity: race, gender, class, sexuality, and sometimes nation."
By showcasing Black dandyism, the fashion world will celebrate its many contributions to high fashion, an industry where Black culture has historically been underrepresented. Celebrity stylist Avon Dorsey expressed the significance of the spotlight on Black men: "It means everything to so many people who have worked tirelessly in fashion for decades."
Dapper Dan, a fashion icon hailing from Harlem, was the first to experience the power of dandyism. Growing up underprivileged, he discovered the transformative potential of dressing up in clothes purchased from Goodwill. This experience sparked his lifelong passion for fashion, ultimately leading him to open a store in Harlem, where he created custom clothes for celebrities and community members alike.
This year's Met Gala co-chairs are actor Colman Domingo, Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, entertainers A$AP Rocky and Pharrell Williams, with NBA star LeBron James serving as the honorary chair. This year's committee members include musicians André 3000, Janelle Monáe, Teyana Taylor, Usher, and Tyla, actors Ayo Edebiri, Audra McDonald, and Jeremy Pope, and athletes Simone Biles and Angel Reese.
While the Met Gala is not political in nature, Dorsey believes it sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially in light of the Trump administration weaponizing these practices. "The Met Gala emphasizes all three touchpoints of DEI," said Dorsey, who is launching a Black men's fashion magazine next month, Brother. "Highlighting the significance of Black culture, specifically Black men, is crucial in standing up against stereotypes and misinformation and advancing our reality."
As guests prepare their tailored ensembles for the gala, anticipation buzzes. Dorsey is excited to see Colman Domingo's sophisticated suit and A$AP Rocky's fusion of street style and high fashion, a men's couture interpretation. He is also looking forward to Rihanna's expected outfit alongside A$AP Rocky.
The late André Leon Talley, the first Black creative director at Vogue, battled stereotypes and exclusion in shaping Vogue's vision. Monday night will undoubtedly be a tribute to Talley's legacy. "This Met Gala in particular," Dorsey said, "André will be looking down with immense pride and joy, knowing how much he had to endure for us to reach this exceptional moment. He did so much for Black men in fashion, and Monday will mark the fruition of his efforts."
- Black men's fashion prowess will illuminate the center stage at the upcoming Met Gala, reflecting their versatile and globally influential style.
- In the Vogue video, celebrities described Black dandyism as a representation of Black excellence, confidence, and personal expression.
- Celebrity stylist Avon Dorsey believes the Met Gala this year sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, standing against stereotypes and misinformation about Black culture.
- Monday night's Met Gala will mark the fruition of André Leon Talley's efforts, acting as a tribute to his legacy in shaping Vogue's vision and advocating for Black men in the fashion industry.
