The Met Gala. It’s a whirlwind of couture, celebrities, and themes that often leave us breathless. But beyond the glittering gowns and gravity-defying silhouettes lies a powerful narrative in the Met Gala 2025 theme – one of cultural expression and historical reclamation. We’re talking about Black Dandyism, and its continued, stunning presence on the world’s most-watched red carpet.
The Met Gala: A Stage for Black Dandyism’s Grand Performance
The Met Gala, with its themes celebrating fashion history, uniquely provides a stage for Black Dandyism. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the evolution of this movement and its ongoing relevance. For years, Black artists and designers have used the Gala to reclaim their narratives and redefine what it means to be fashionable. The event is not just about wearing expensive clothes; it’s about telling a story through sartorial choices.
Colman Domingo and the Resurgence of Refined Rebellion on the Red Carpet
Colman Domingo’s red carpet appearances often blend classic tailoring with unexpected details. While designers haven’t always explicitly stated “Black Dandyism” as the inspiration, the spirit of the movement – challenging norms, celebrating individuality, and commanding attention – is undeniably present.
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Arriving with fellow co-chairs Lewis Hamilton and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, Colman Domingo dropped jaws wearing a Valentino cape piece that mimicked the cape of a church choir. The look was paired with a stunning earpiece and a press plate neck piece.
Credit: Getty
His second look, a Valentino three- piece suit, revealed a playfulness of textures, patterns and colouring along with his shirt, tie and brooch. His look paid homage to late American journalist André Leon Talley, who was a representation of the American Dandy and who wore a similar blue cape to the 2011 Met Gala.
ASAP Rocky and Lewis Hamilton: Modern Black Dandyism Fashion Disruptors
ASAP Rocky and Lewis Hamilton are also the co-chairs who champion this aesthetic. Rocky’s eclectic style, often incorporating vintage pieces and streetwear elements, reflects the multifaceted nature of modern Black Dandyism. He mixes high fashion with streetwear.
Rocky stepped out in a custom style from his agency AWGE, in true Fashion Killa style. He wore a double-breasted AWGE parka in technical wool, with coated snaps and Velcro detailing on the sleeves. His hair had been braided intricately, and he accessorised his look with an umbrella. His jacket was inspired by the Marmot outerwear that Rocky saw people wear while growing up in his native Harlem. The jackets represented a modern-day dandy to him, and his outfit paid homage to that.
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“Black is Back”, says ASAP Rocky.
Hamilton showed up and showed out, using his platform to promote emerging Black designers and showcase bold, statement-making looks that challenge traditional menswear norms. His intentional collaborations with designers are acts of support that are crucial for the diversification of the fashion industry.
The F1 star wore a custom ivory-coloured Grace Wales Bonner suit, matching beret with gold accents, and a diamond brooch by New York jeweller Briony Raymond. Every detail of his look, down to the satin stripe of his pants, was mindfully crafted to pay homage to the black culture through the power of adornment. The ivory colour represents the designer’s spirituality, the brooch blooming represents the opening and receiving of black culture, and the white on white is an ode to late American painter Barkley L. Hendricks.
Credit: Michael Buckner/Penske Media via Getty Images
“Inspired by Harlem Renaissance”, says Lewis Hamilton.
Alton Mason’s Met Gala Look: A Masterclass in Contemporary Black Dandyism
Alton Mason consistently delivers memorable Met Gala looks. He embodies the spirit of Dandyism with his bold and confident style.
“Afro futurism”, says Alton Mason
Wearing custom Boss, he did a grand reveal on the carpet, showcasing a two-piece silver suit, tailored with an open heart at the front, inspired by his favourite anime character, Giorno Giovanna (Jojo). He wore a structured black cape on top, which had around ten shoulder pads, and a black Panama hat.
Mason’s look showcased a masterful blend of classic elegance and modern flair, paying homage to the 90s music scene with a diamond eye patch while incorporating elements of Black culture and self-expression.
Black Dandyism: A Historical Foundation for Sartorial Rebellion
Before we dive into the dazzling displays at the Met Gala, let’s ground ourselves in the history of Black Dandyism. It’s more than just wearing fancy clothes; it’s a statement. Born in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Black Dandyism was a radical act during times of intense oppression. Enslaved Africans and, later, free Black men and women used clothing to assert their identity, dignity, and humanity in a world that denied them both. Think perfectly tailored suits, vibrant colours, and meticulous attention to detail – a visible declaration of self-worth.
Figures like William Brown, a formerly enslaved man who became a successful businessman in 19th-century London, embodied this spirit. His impeccable style challenged racist stereotypes and demonstrated Black excellence. This tradition continued through the Harlem Renaissance and beyond, with figures like Zora Neale Hurston, who embraced bold patterns and individual style. These were all powerful declarations of self-determination through fashion.
Black Excellence in Fashion: How the Met Gala Celebrates Black Dandyism
The Met Gala’s inclusion of Black designers and the celebration of Black aesthetics are steps in the right direction. Seeing more Black stylists, makeup artists, and hairstylists working with attendees is also crucial. This holistic approach ensures that the stories being told on the red carpet are authentic and nuanced. However, there’s still work to be done. The fashion industry needs to continue amplifying Black voices and providing opportunities for Black creatives. It’s a collective responsibility to ensure that Black creatives are not just included, but also celebrated and supported.
Black Dandyism’s Enduring Impact: Inspiring Future Generations of Fashion at the Met Gala
The legacy of Black Dandyism extends far beyond the Met Gala. It influences contemporary fashion trends, encourages individuality, and provides inspiration for future generations. The movement’s emphasis on self-expression, creativity, and cultural pride resonates with young people searching for ways to define their identities. Seeing figures like Domingo, Rocky, Hamilton, and Mason confidently embrace their style encourages others to do the same.
The Met Gala is a powerful platform, and when used to celebrate Black Dandyism, it becomes a catalyst for change. It’s a reminder that fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a form of resistance, a celebration of culture, and a powerful tool for self-expression. The Gala’s celebration of Black Dandyism’s enduring legacy inspires, challenges, and shapes the fashion of today and the future. And that’s something worth celebrating.
