The 2025 Met Gala is gearing up to be an incredible event as it’s about to dive into the stylish world of Black dandyism with the upcoming exhibit “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Seriously, this exhibit promises to be a major highlight of the gala, which will showcase the unique and powerful ways Black style has evolved over time.
This exhibition is inspired by the work of Monica L. Miller, who’s basically the OG when it comes to exploring Black dandyism and its role in shaping Black identities throughout history. If you don’t know her book Slaves to Fashion, now’s the time to hit the library. She’s pulling from her 2009 research to curate an experience that examines everything from 18th-century art to modern-day runway feels.
What’s Dandyism, anyway?
Dandyism isn’t just about looking fly (though, let’s be real, that’s a big part of it). It’s this whole attitude of dressing “wisely and well.” According to Miller, it’s a strategy to rethink identity and reimagine oneself, especially during tough times like the era of enslavement. The Black dandy took what was often used against them and flipped it into a statement of autonomy and style. Pretty powerful, right?
This exhibit will showcase how Black folks transformed from being viewed as mere luxury items into global trendsetters with serious style. Miller described the Black dandy as existing in this interesting space between hyper-visibility (like on the red carpet) and invisibility (in spaces like The Met). Honestly, it’s about time this narrative got its spotlight.
The Details
This exhibition is the first of its kind since 2003 to focus solely on menswear. Curator Andrew Bolton has made a huge push to diversify the Costume Institute’s exhibitions since 2020, and “Superfine” is the cherry on top. With pieces from around 150 BIPOC designers now part of the collection, it’s a serious step toward inclusion and representation.
Bolton got acquainted with Miller’s work while preparing for the 2021 exhibit “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” and it’s safe to say he’s excited about this one. According to Vogue, he said, “What’s interesting about Black dandyism is it’s not just an identity… It’s also a concept.” We’re talking about freedom, theatricality, and the many layers of expression that Black designers and stylists bring to the table.
The Exhibition Structure
The exhibit will be organized around 12 characteristics of Black dandyism, drawing from a 1934 essay by Zora Neale Hurston. Each section will tell a part of the story through garments, accessories, and even media like drawings and films. Imagine seeing an enslaved person’s livery from 19th-century Maryland next to a Zoot suit from the 1940s.
The exhibit also highlights modern designers like Pharrell Williams and the late Virgil Abloh, who seamlessly incorporate this rich history into their work. They’re creating more than fashion; they’re telling stories about race, power, and heritage through their designs.
A Celebration of Style
A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour are set to take the reins, alongside honorary chair LeBron James. They’re all are the trendsetters who embrace risk and creativity in their self-presentation. We’re here for it.
In case you missed it, Rihanna is confirmed to attend the Met Gala, and you know she’s going to serve looks. RiRi recently said she’s not worried about Rocky’s outfit, but she’s definitely focused on her own. With a track record of iconic appearances, we just can’t wait to see what she brings to the table this time.
Why It Matters
“Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” is a movement; a chance to reflect on how Black dandyism has evolved and how it continues to influence fashion today. As Bolton said, menswear is experiencing a renaissance, and Black designers are at the forefront of this revolution. This exhibit will not only showcase stunning designs but will also honour the history and cultural significance behind them. In short, mark your calendars for May 10 to October 26, 2025, as “Superfine” is set to redefine our understanding of style, identity, and culture through the lens of Black dandyism.
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