Met Gala 2025: Beyond the Red Carpet – Exploring the Power of Dandyism

Okay, so we all saw how glamorous the Met Gala was last week! This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” celebrated Dandyism – this incredible Black style that’s all about blending African and European vibes. This movement explores how Black individuals used clothing and style as a form of self-expression and resistance. It was about looking amazing and making a statement, shaking things up socially and politically through pure sartorial excellence. Black dandies weren’t just looking good; they were changing the game in various creative fields, from music to visual art.

Now, the Met Gala isn’t just a bunch of celebs playing dress-up for fun. It goes down every year on the second Monday of May, and it’s basically a fundraiser for the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This year, the gala raised a record-breaking $31 million for the institute, which is the only department at the Met that funds its own operations. These funds support the institute’s staff, exhibitions, and research. Tickets are by invitation only, with individual seats costing around $75,000 and tables starting at $350,000. Some celebrities get the golden ticket from a designer who buys a whole table. Imagine receiving an invitation like that!

The Exhibition: ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style’

While the Met Gala buzz is exciting, I had several compelling reasons to experience “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” firsthand (yes, I went on the very first day!): Unlike most fashion exhibitions that focus on women’s wear, this one exclusively showcased men’s fashion, offering a fresh perspective and some inspo I can actually picture myself rocking. A significant part of the Dandyism movement unfolded during the Harlem Renaissance, right in my neighborhood, adding a personal connection. Plus, the exhibition celebrates a powerful cultural movement rather than being a tribute to a single figure with a controversial past (if you know you know). And most importantly, Dandyism resonates with my own belief that fashion is a powerful tool for self-definition and a form of “contemporary armor”, allowing us to express who we are, regardless of others’ opinions.

This year’s theme goes beyond just rating celebrity looks (which, let’s be honest, were mostly on point!), and I think we’ve had enough about the red carpet buzz in the media. My aim here is to shine a light on the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibition, which opened its doors last Saturday, May 10th, and takes us on a journey through over three centuries of Black style. This exhibition isn’t just about pretty clothes; it shows how Black folks used their impeccable style as a strategy, a way to carve out space and possibility in a world that often tried to box them in.

The expansive space is thoughtfully organized into twelve sections, each highlighting a key characteristic of dandy style:

• Ownership: Asserting control over one’s image and presentation.
• Presence: Making a powerful and undeniable impact through style.
• Distinction: Standing out from the crowd with unique flair.
• Disguise: Using fashion to navigate social landscapes and protect oneself.
• Freedom: Expressing individuality and breaking free from societal constraints.
• Champion: Representing and uplifting one’s community through style.
• Respectability: Challenging negative stereotypes through impeccable grooming and attire.
• Jook: Incorporating elements of Black vernacular culture into fashion.
• Heritage: Drawing inspiration from African traditions and ancestry.
• Beauty: Celebrating Black aesthetics and self-love through appearance.
• Cool: Projecting an effortless confidence and composure.
• Cosmopolitanism: Embracing global influences and a sophisticated worldview.

The exhibition features a captivating blend of historical pieces with the visionary creations of contemporary Black designers. You’ll see stunning pieces from the archives alongside cutting-edge from the looks of Louis Vuitton (especially pieces from the Virgil Abloh era), the sharp tailoring of Balmain under Olivier Rousteing, the subversive designs of Willy Chavarria, the innovative spirit of Luar’s Raul Lopez, the iconic streetwear-infused high fashion of Off-White, and the elegant expressions of Grace Wales Bonner, among many other talented names. It’s a powerful dialogue between the past and the present, showcasing the enduring impact of Black style.

The first day was already packed by noon, and by the time I left after a couple of hours, it was shoulder-to-shoulder! But even with the crowds, it was awesome seeing people completely captivated by everything – the clothes, the stories on the walls, the old books, the videos, the art. And at the exit you can snag the exhibition book and other cool stuff, such as other fashion-related items and Met merch. I’m definitely planning a less crowded return trip, and you should absolutely check it out before it closes on October 26th.

Met Gala 2025: A Few Standouts

Alright, I know I said we had enough coverage about the Met Gala, but I can’t write about the theme and not give a little love to some of the looks, right? I won’t go into every detail, but I’ll share some photos of my favorites. I’d love to hear your thoughts – hit the comments with your favorite looks from the night!

Seven Dandyism-Inspired Tips for Today:

1. Dress Like You Mean It: Okay, comfort is tempting, but think twice before rolling out in sweats, even for a quick errand (taking out the trash is the only exception, maybe). Every moment is a chance to look good – even a fly hoodie counts!
2. Quality Over Quantity: Instead of grabbing ten cheap shirts that will fall apart after a few washes, why not drop that same cash on one seriously nice shirt with amazing fabric and a perfect fit that will actually last?
3. Basic Doesn’t Mean Cheap: You can have a minimalist style with elevated, well-made basics.
4. Own Your Statement Piece: Have that one item that sets the whole vibe, the thing people notice and compliment, the piece that screams “I’m sexy and I know it.” A killer faux fur coat (gotta be a good faux, not a “troll doll hair” fiber!), vibrant shoes, leather pants, a dope hat – the possibilities are endless. And don’t be afraid to try new things! Just like anything in life, fashion needs a little stepping outside your comfort zone. You might be surprised how much fun it is.
5. Accessorize Wisely: Accessories, whether bold or understated, can complete your look. They can be statement pieces themselves, or if you’re feeling more low-key, a subtle piece of jewelry can do wonders. Nothing beats a guy in jeans and a white tee with a cool pair of shades.
6. Make Getting Ready a Ritual: Don’t just throw things on last minute. Take your time, enjoy the process of putting together an outfit. Think of it as a form of self-care.
7. Be Bold, But Smart: Don’t be afraid to stand out, but make sure your look is appropriate and makes sense for the situation. If you’re ever unsure, hit up some style blogs for inspo or get an honest opinion from a stylish friend.

And for a more fun and visual take on my experience at the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibition, be sure to check out my Instagram reel 🎥