Met Gala 2025: A Black Dandyism Renaissance

Haley Birton
May 6
3 min read

Black Dandyism is a celebration of Black identity and history. It's a style movement and powerful form of cultural expression where Black people, mainly men, utilize fashion as a means of self-expression and resistance. More than just a style, Black Dandyism is an assertive declaration, making a powerful statement to reclaim self-expression and challenge societal norms.

The Met Gala's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," is a vibrant celebration of Black Dandyism and the formation of Black identities through fashion. There are so many fashion icons that bring inspiration to life for this theme. Icons like André Leon Talley, Dapper Dan, and Law Roach, among others, have not only altered the fashion game but have also crafted art and made a significant, lasting impression on the industry and out perception of fashion. The Met Gala 2025 co-chairs—Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, have also significantly impacted fashion, particularly in menswear, breaking norms and embracing unique self-expression to create art on the body.

André Leon Talley, who sadly passed away at 73, was a creative director, fashion journalist, and editor-at-large for Vogue. Anna Wintour herself stated that her late friend was "a dandy among dandies". He made history as the first Black man to serve as creative director at Vogue, inspiring many and opening doors for Black individuals in the industry, thus creating a lasting legacy.

Talley challenged conventional mindsets through his art in fashion, prompting deeper reflection on his work. In his 1996 Vanity Fair spread, 'Scarlett 'N The Hood,' inspired by 'Gone with the Wind,' Talley reversed the themes of race and power to confront white audiences about their racism. Instead of portraying a wealthy white class with Black servants, his spread depicted Black models as the affluent class and white designers as the servants. Fashion and Costume Historian Shelby Ivey Christie who discusses fashion through the lens of race, class and culture stated, "André Leon Talley’s spin on 'Gone with the Wind,' filmed in the 1940s about a wealthy white family in Antebellum Reconstruction with black servants, used those themes 'to kind of poke fun at racism to tell white audiences to examine some of their racism". His vision of using fashion to convey such important messages is the reason his impact on the fashion industry remains so monumental and why he's a key inspiration for this year's Met Gala theme.

Dapper Dan revolutionized streetwear and Black fashion, establishing a legacy that endures today. His structured and tailored style remains instantly recognizable; even before seeing him, his ensemble immediately identifies him.

Dapper Dan's legacy began with him opening up his own boutique in Harlem. He gained recognition for his innovative use of designer logos emblazoned across jackets, pants, and other garments—a phenomenon known as logomania. He created custom-made, high-end clothing tailored for hip-hop artists. This unique, urban approach to street fashion was cut short when a copyright infringement lawsuit from Fendi in 1992 forced his business to close.

Writer Monique Long notes on MetMuseum.com in her article 'Becoming Dapper Dan,' "His genius lies in his ability to see a dearth in the marketplace, apprehend the vernacular of popular taste, and then articulate an aesthetic that already existed. That is Black style." His sharp sense of style, characterized by tailored lines and fitted silhouettes, aligns perfectly with the Met Gala's theme. Dapper Dan's attention to detail, such as incorporating a matching bow tie or statement shades, elevates his looks, adding a distinctive edge that sets him apart. These carefully chosen accessories not only complement his outfits but also highlight his innovative approach to fashion, blending classic tailoring with modern, eye-catching elements.

Law Roach has distinguished himself as a remarkable fashion stylist, celebrated for his transformative work with celebrities like Zendaya. He is the creative force behind many of Zendaya's most iconic looks, from show-stopping red carpet appearances to unforgettable photoshoots.

Roach's innovative sense of style consistently sparks conversation and sets trends. He has significantly elevated the role of the fashion stylist, making it a more recognized and influential position within the industry. His commitment to collaborating with emerging designers, providing them with a platform to showcase their talent, is particularly commendable.

In his work, Law Roach focuses on crafting a narrative through each ensemble, embodying art and unique characteristics with every look he styles. He champions the idea of embracing confidence in fashion, encouraging individuals to express themselves boldly and authentically through their clothing choices.

Now that the Met Gala has concluded, let's dive into some of the most unforgettable looks that truly embodied Black Dandyism, complete with accessories and unique touches that made them stand out.