Met Gala-inspired event coming to Uptown this spring
Why it matters: The May 2 event mirrors Met Gala 's 2025 theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which focuses on the history and influence of Black dandyism.
"It's important for us to bring this concept here to showcase what we can do as pioneers of fashion," says event coordinator, Perrine DeShield, who is a fashion professor at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Context: Black dandyism is the term used to describe the way Black men have used fashion as a form of self-expression that defies mainstream expectations.
"Black Dandyism at its core means Black rebellion. It means breaking stereotypes of what 'Black people are supposed to look like,'" DeShield tells Axios.
Zoom in: New York's Met Gala exhibit theme honors the style and aesthetic of the late André Leon Talley, a fashion journalist with deep southern roots, who famously embodied Black Dandyism.
Talley was raised in Durham and graduated from North Carolina Central University. He later became the right-hand man of Anna Wintour, the lead chairperson of the Met Gala, who largely influences its vision from the guest list to the theme.
"It all comes back to the south and the Carolinas. I think that so often the south is left out of conversations when it comes to fashion, even though so much of it is rooted from us," said DeShield.
What to expect: In true Met Gala fashion, you'll be greeted by paparazzi once you arrive at The Gantt before stepping onto a red carpet to take pictures.
The museum will also have interactive exhibits, a fashion show, custom portraits, a designer panel discussion, light bites, drinks and a rooftop party.
General admission tickets are $30.59.
VIP tickets are $70.65 and include networking opportunities with local fashion designers, two drinks, food, early rooftop access, and exclusive giveaways.
If you go: You'll have to adhere to the "Black Dandy" dress code, which is largely open to interpretation, but Deshield says to think of your own style, but elevated.
Some examples of notable people who embody the fashionable theme include Pharrell Williams, Tyler the Creator, Prince, Missy Elliott and Janelle Monae.
Attendees are encouraged to be free in expressing themselves from head-to-toe through layers, textures and accessories.
What's next: Deshield plans to host more fashion-forward exhibits and events in the future. Until then, she encourages people to attend upcoming events curated by other local creatives, such as Boileryard Brunch, to immerse themselves in cultural style and fashion.
"Style lives and breathes in Charlotte. So to the people who thought Charlotte has no fashion sense. I would challenge that to say are you immersing yourself in Charlotte art and spaces where creatives are consistently contributing to the community," DeShield said.
Take a look at the style guide for inspiration:
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