BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art has announced that the theme for the 2025 Met Gala is “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” with the accompanying dress code titled “Tailored for You.” This theme delves into the rich history of Black dandyism and its significant role in shaping Black identities across the Atlantic diaspora. The exhibition, inspired by Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, will explore how tailored fashion has been utilized as a form of self-expression and resistance from the 18th century to the present day.
Scheduled for May 5, 2025, the Met Gala will serve as the grand opening for this exhibition. The event will be co-chaired by notable figures including actor Colman Domingo, Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, musician A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, alongside Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Basketball legend LeBron James will serve as an honorary co-chair. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time all co-chairs are Black men, reflecting the theme’s focus on Black style and identity. The Met Gala host committee was also announced with notable names including, Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, rapper Doechii, who recently won the Grammy for best rap album, Andre 3000, Ayo Edebiri, Usher and Tyla.
The “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibition will feature a diverse array of garments, paintings, photographs, and other artifacts that highlight the evolution of Black dandyism. Divided into twelve thematic sections, the exhibition will cover topics such as “Ownership,” which examines the intersection of being owned and owning one’s style, and “Juke,” focusing on the flamboyant “Zoot suits” of the 1940s that challenged societal norms around masculinity and sexuality. Contemporary designs by notable Black designers like Pharrell Williams, the late Virgil Abloh, Wales Bonner and Tramaine Emory for Denim Tears will also be showcased, illustrating the ongoing influence of Black dandyism in modern fashion.
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The dress code for the gala, “Tailored for You,” encourages attendees to express their personal style through tailored looks. This directive invites guests to explore the elegance and sophistication inherent in dandyism, blending classic tailoring with individual creativity. The emphasis is on personal expression, allowing participants to pay homage to the historical aspects of Black dandyism while incorporating contemporary elements that reflect their unique identities.
In addition to the main exhibition, the Met will host a series of related talks and programs across New York City leading up to the opening. These events aim to further explore the cultural and historical significance of Black dandyism, providing deeper insights into the themes presented in the exhibition. The exhibition itself will run from May 10 to October 26, 2025, offering visitors an immersive experience into the world of Black style and tailored fashion.
The 2025 Met Gala promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the profound impact of Black dandyism on fashion and identity. By highlighting the artistry and cultural significance of tailored Black style, the gala and its accompanying exhibition aim to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of this influential aspect of fashion history.
