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The Sun
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Breaking down 2025 Met Gala
ON May 5, the finest of the entertainment industry rocked up in their dandiest fits to wow the blue carpet at the Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art) Gala on Fifth Avenue, New York City. Often ridiculed for its superficiality, the charity event is not short of criticism and scrutiny, as last year's gala received backlash for being tone-deaf to the political climate at the time (the Gaza genocide). This year, the winds have shifted. While past galas often drew criticism, the 2025 event was met with praise. Some may see this as an effort by industry leaders to reshape the image of Hollywood and the elite, especially as public awareness of social disparities grows. That said, the 2025 Met was applauded for inclusivity and artistic ambition – and dare we say, this year's gala sits at the same table as the 2018 Met, which was considered among the best. This year's theme may have been rooted in performative activism, but its intention makes a poignant political statement as it gives a hypothetical seat at the very table where this community was once (read: still are) oppressed. Themed Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, the Met took direct inspiration from Monica L. Miller's 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity and here is why it is a big deal. Also read: Oscars highlights Dandyism With roots in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the term 'dandyism' began in the 18th century when Black servants in England were forced to wear gold, brass or silver collars with padlocks and fine livery, which reflected their 'owners' wealth. However, much like any other fashion trend, the term was recontextualised – having a rebirth, ironically, in the land of freedom, the United States of America. Today, 'dandyism' connotes individuality and defiance, all thanks to a rebellious political movement in the 1920s to 1930s during the Harlem Renaissance – when Black people migrated to Harlem in New York City seeking better economic opportunities while fleeing racial violence. Dubbed the Black cultural mecca, it became nesting ground for African-American culture. And where Black people were oppressed to silence, there they thrived in bold art, music, literature and fashion, reshaping the very fabric of American culture while challenging prejudiced beliefs. Bright colours, zoot suits, florals and stripes – think fitted but with soul. Dandyism saw a departure from its European 'gentleman' tux origins as it took notes from traditional African motifs and prints. From artistes such as Louis Armstrong to human rights activist Malcolm X, appearing dandy in a tailored suit was a weighty statement of identity and defiance against repression. Also read: Grammy Awards highlights 2025 Met For a fashion trend that became an expression of freedom and individuality, its flowers are long overdue. The line-up of mostly Black co-chairs, comprising Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, rapper A$ap Rocky, actor Colman Domingo and artiste Pharrell Williams, for the first time ever is exactly why this year's Met was a big deal. For decades, the entertainment and art industries have benefitted from Black culture but have refused to give them their credit. Being typecasted as loud and boorish for simply expressing themselves, the Met's decision to celebrate their individualism and the community's culture is a step in the right direction. The 2025 Superfine: Tailoring Black Style Met Gala was not just a celebration of black tailoring excellence but also the very community that shaped culture, arts, music and most importantly, individualism. Be it superficial or performative, one thing for sure is this will go down in history as a political statement that was made with much finesse and style. Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan brings the aura in an all-black Sabyasachi, elevated by custom jewellery also by Sabyasachi.
The Sun
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Dandy statement
ON May 5, the finest of the entertainment industry rocked up in their dandiest fits to wow the blue carpet at the Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art) Gala on Fifth Avenue, New York City. Often ridiculed for its superficiality, the charity event is not short of criticism and scrutiny, as last year's gala received backlash for being tone-deaf to the political climate at the time (the Gaza genocide). This year, the winds have shifted. While past galas often drew criticism, the 2025 event was met with praise. Some may see this as an effort by industry leaders to reshape the image of Hollywood and the elite, especially as public awareness of social disparities grows. That said, the 2025 Met was applauded for inclusivity and artistic ambition – and dare we say, this year's gala sits at the same table as the 2018 Met, which was considered among the best. This year's theme may have been rooted in performative activism, but its intention makes a poignant political statement as it gives a hypothetical seat at the very table where this community was once (read: still are) oppressed. Themed Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, the Met took direct inspiration from Monica L. Miller's 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity and here is why it is a big deal. Dandyism With roots in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the term 'dandyism' began in the 18th century when Black servants in England were forced to wear gold, brass or silver collars with padlocks and fine livery, which reflected their 'owners' wealth. However, much like any other fashion trend, the term was recontextualised – having a rebirth, ironically, in the land of freedom, the United States of America. Today, 'dandyism' connotes individuality and defiance, all thanks to a rebellious political movement in the 1920s to 1930s during the Harlem Renaissance – when Black people migrated to Harlem in New York City seeking better economic opportunities while fleeing racial violence. Dubbed the Black cultural mecca, it became nesting ground for African-American culture. And where Black people were oppressed to silence, there they thrived in bold art, music, literature and fashion, reshaping the very fabric of American culture while challenging prejudiced beliefs. Bright colours, zoot suits, florals and stripes – think fitted but with soul. Dandyism saw a departure from its European 'gentleman' tux origins as it took notes from traditional African motifs and prints. From artistes such as Louis Armstrong to human rights activist Malcolm X, appearing dandy in a tailored suit was a weighty statement of identity and defiance against repression. 2025 Met For a fashion trend that became an expression of freedom and individuality, its flowers are long overdue. The line-up of mostly Black co-chairs, comprising Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, rapper A$ap Rocky, actor Colman Domingo and artiste Pharrell Williams, for the first time ever is exactly why this year's Met was a big deal. For decades, the entertainment and art industries have benefitted from Black culture but have refused to give them their credit. Being typecasted as loud and boorish for simply expressing themselves, the Met's decision to celebrate their individualism and the community's culture is a step in the right direction. The 2025 Superfine: Tailoring Black Style Met Gala was not just a celebration of black tailoring excellence but also the very community that shaped culture, arts, music and most importantly, individualism. Be it superficial or performative, one thing for sure is this will go down in history as a political statement that was made with much finesse and style.
Black America Web
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
We Can Thank Dr. Monica L. Miller For 2025's Met Gala Theme
Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE Source: Mike Coppola/MG25 / Getty When Dr. Monica L. Miller completed her thesis on Black Dandyism as a graduate student at Harvard, it set forth a chain of events that would go on to influence fashion on a grand scale. Thanks to Dr. Miller, we witnessed the Blackest Met Gala yet. The research for her thesis evolved into two books: Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity (2009) and the upcoming Superfine: Tailoring Black Style (2025), which became the blueprint for this year's Met Gala. The biggest fashion event of the year was themed 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' and raised $31 million for the Costume Institute. And even more important, put Black dandyism on display for the world to see. Dr. Miller's passion for learning and teaching is admirable. Currently, she is the Professor of Africana Studies and Chair of the Africana Studies Department. Her educational career is an example of how fashion, arts, entertainment, and education can intersect. As the guest curator for this year's Met Gala, she was instrumental in contextualizing the theme while carrying the torch for authors, educators, and fashion history enthusiasts. She continues to encourage other students to follow in her footsteps. She told host Lala Anthony during a Vogue livestream. 'I've never had such a big classroom,' referring to the growing interest in studies. She continues to spread her knowledge of Black history, educating everyone she encounters, from the students in her class to Vogue host La La Anthony. 'Thank you for educating me,' the actress told Dr. Miller during the same stream. Learning From Dr. Monica L. Miller Source: Arturo Holmes/MG25 / Getty The Met Gala is about more than dressing up, it helps fund the Costume Institute, which then helps provide educational resources for brilliant minds like Dr. Miller. Education can be a vehicle to achieving greatness. Dr. Miller's work spotlighted Black Dandyism during a time when civil liberties are being violated and an administration hell bent on smothering the cultural identity. Art imitates life, and like the Black Dandies using fashion to reclaim their identities, we're standing strong as a collective. A teenage fan of The White Lotus whose never heard of Dapper Dan will understand how he expanded the idea of luxury at his Harlem atelier thanks to this exhibition. A privileged person may discover a Black designer like Brandon Blackwood, Chuks Collins, or Hanifa because she one day turned a brush with a cliff note into an indelible body of work. As media literacy is at an all-time low and pathways to higher learning are under attack, we should remember people like Dr. Monica L. Miller, who quietly inspire us to think harder and reach higher. DON'T MISS: Don't Erase Blackness At The Met Gala Because It Didn't Show Up How You Thought It Should Law Roach's Most Memorable Met Gala Moments SEE ALSO We Can Thank Dr. Monica L. Miller For 2025's Met Gala Theme was originally published on
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Best Dressed at the 2025 Met Gala
Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Generate Key Takeaways The Met Gala is one of the most closely watched red carpets of the year, and this year's is no exception. The 2025 Met Gala celebrates the new Costume Institute exhibition 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,' with a dress code of 'Tailored for You.' This year's theme is inspired by guest curator Monica L. Miller's 2009 book, 'Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity,' and marks the museum's fashion exhibit focused on menswear since 2003. More from WWD The Met Gala is, of course, all about the red carpet. In the midst of all the fashion, who makes the WWD Best Dressed list? Click through the gallery above to see which looks are not to be missed. The 2025 gala is cohosted by Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky and Pharrell Williams, with LeBron James serving as an honorary chair. For the first time since 2019, the Met is bringing back its tradition of having an additional host committee. This year's committee includes André 3000, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Simone Biles, Jonathan Owens, Grace Wales Bonner, Jordan Casteel, Dapper Dan, Doechii, Ayo Edebiri, Edward Enninful, Jeremy O. Harris, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, Rashid Johnson, Regina King, Spike Lee, Tonya Lewis Lee, Audra McDonald, Janelle Monáe, Jeremy Pope, Angel Reese, Sha'Carri Richardson, Olivier Rousteing, Tyla, Usher and Kara Walker. Following the major gala on Monday, the exhibition opens to the public on Saturday and runs through Oct. 26 in the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Exhibition Hall. The exhibit is curated by Miller and the Costume Institute's Andrew Bolton, William DeGregorio and Amanda Garfinkel. Launch Gallery: Met Gala 2025 Best Dressed Guests: Colman Domingo, Sydney Sweeney, Madonna and More [PHOTOS] Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
First Look at ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Yahoo is using AI to generate takeaways from this article. This means the info may not always match what's in the article. Reporting mistakes helps us improve the experience. Generate Key Takeaways While thousands milled around the Metropolitan Museum of Art Sunday afternoon and thousands more outside of the museum's walls are discussing what defines dandyism, the Costume Institute's spring show 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' is unquestionably beautiful and complicated. Perhaps no one was more eager to see its realization than guest curator Monica L. Miller, whose 2009 book 'Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of the Black Diasporic Identity,' inspired the show. During a preview Sunday, Miller said she had never imagined that the show would spark such a global conversation. More from WWD 'It's a vessel — an unexpected lesson in history, where you can look at fashion and understand the power of fashion over time and geography. With the way that everyone is talking about it, it's also a container for those histories, but also people's imaginative and creative response,' she said. Spanning about 250 years, 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' explores menswear through Black culture and identity with a good dose of the current street trends and hip-hop's influence, as well as such pivotal periods as the Harlem Renaissance, and the civil rights movement. There is also much to consider looking further back into our country's troubled past related to the imposed uniforms for servants and enslaved people, including two examples that are featured at the start. Visitors will walk through 12 sections — Ownership, Presence, Distinction, Disguise, Freedom, Champion, Respectability, Jook, Heritage, Beauty, Cool and Cosmopolitanism. They are meant to be defining but not definitive, Miller said. A preview of the Met's'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' exhibit for the Met Gala 2025. The layout, which includes glass-encased garments, prompts gallery goers to look closer, as well as upward and outward, prompting a certain transcendence. The 'Superfine' name borrows from the 1789 autobiography of the enslaved Olaudah Equiano, who wrote of laying out eight pounds of his money 'for a suit of superfine clothes to dance with at his freedom.' Miller said, 'I'm giving you 12 different scenarios to think about the power of fashion in the largest terms, and in particular its power in relation to race. But there are so many other ways that you can take any one of these themes and topics and blow it out in a different direction to think much more comprehensively than we've been able to do here. That's exciting to me because I don't know what people are going to do. Younger people in particular are really ready, so go. 'Go' is what I want to say.' The exhibition also features looks from about 40 contemporary Black designers including Grace Wales Bonner, Ozwald Boateng, Labrum London, Botter, Telfar, Dapper Dan, Jeffrey Banks, Luar, Willy Chavarria, Balmain's Olivier Rousteing, Fear of God, Jawara Alleyne, Ervin Latimer, Bianca Saunders, Jacques Agbobly, and Off-White's Ib Kamara, among others. Multiple garments on view are from the past five years or so. There is also a good smattering of creations from Louis Vuitton, which is the show's lead sponsor and where Virgil Abloh served as creative director of men's collections and was succeeded by Pharrell Williams. 'You should be able to come through here and be really excited by contemporary Black fashion,' Miller said. A preview of the Met's'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' exhibit for the 2025 Met Gala. A$AP Rocky, Lewis Hamilton and Louis Vuitton's Williams, who understand the might of self-fashioning and are among the cohosts of Monday night's Met Gala, will help to take the current interest in the show next level. To keep the pop culture conversation going, 'Superfine,' which opens to the public on Saturday and runs through Oct. 26, will be on view for eight weeks longer than any previous Costume Institute exhibition. At the entrance to 'Superfine,' the wall text defines a dandy as 'someone who studies above everything else to dress elegantly and fashionably.' During Sunday's preview, Miller, who collaborated with Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute's curator in charge, spoke about the importance of dandyism to Black identity in the diaspora and the ways that Black designers have interpreted and envisioned that history. 'Museums are often in the business of telling history through objects. One of the things that people will learn in this exhibition is that you can learn really signal moments in Black history by thinking about it and looking at it through the lens of fashion and dress,' Miller said. 'We're also looking at things dialectically — what it means to be fashionable, when somebody imposes a perspective or idea on you, and what that means to fashion and how those two things have related over time and different geographies. I hope that people will be able to see how they've managed that dialectic even if they are not Black. But there are also very moments in here that will feel not only familiar but familial to people, like a strategy around fashion that their grandfather' may have adopted. A preview of the Met's'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' exhibit for the 2025 Met Gala. Referring to the Cosmopolitanism section, for example, Miller noted how designers had referenced how their families really dressed up for their first flights. 'It was really a class journey to be able to afford air travel,' she said. The tensions tied to dandyism — such as when a dandy is racialized, or when a Black person uses dandyism as a tool — are also analyzed. Dandyism dates back to the 18th century, when it was imposed on Black servants who were used as figures of conspicuous consumption with fine textiles being used as form of currency and a means of exchange. A Brroks Brothers livery coat 1856-64 that was worn by an enslaved boy before the Civil War is one example of that. Deeper into the show there is a record of W.E.B. Du Bois' 1925 receipt for two Brooks Brothers suits. Knowing that some Met goers will spend a few hours in the galleries and others will skate through, Miller shared some of her must-see items, starting with the livery suits. A navy wool coat with an appliquéd braid of gold silk from John Galliano's 2000-01 haute couture Dior collection that was worn by the former Vogue journalist André Leon Talley and two spring 2023 black wool 'Body Stitch' suits by Off-White's Kamara that challenge gender norm with male anatomy stitched on one and female anatomy stitched on another are also must-sees, Miller said. 'Sometimes dandyism can be used for survival,' Miller said in the Disguise section, noting how some enslaved people dressed above their station in life to escape and then later sold their clothes to have money to live on. A preview of the Met's'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' exhibit for the 2025 Met Gala. In the Freedom area, Miller stopped before a wall of portraits from the 1800s — including William Whipper, Abraham Hanson and Thomas Howland — to highlight the significance of their attire, expressions, jewelry and adornments. A few feet away in Respectability is an homage to the American abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass — clothing, a cane, a top hat, a comb, non-prescription sunglasses and a pocket watch. Miller noted how the latter symbolized how as a free person Douglass had control over his own time. A jockey's jacket of red silk satin with individually handstitched stripes of green silk satin and white buckskin breeches from 1830-50 is another one of Miller's essentials to see. She noted how the colors worn by the enslaved jockeys signaled the status and property of their owners, as well as the household's livery. A preview of the Met's'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' exhibit for the 2025 Met Gala. A 1987 Dapper Dan ensemble that repurposed Louis Vuitton logo leather indicated how the designer brought luxury labels to the people, Miller said. The musician known as Prince's white ruffled shirt from Vaughn Terry Jelks from his 1984 'Purple Rain' tour and a Pat Campano jacket worn by 'Disco Queen' Sylvester James are expected to be of interest. Miller also highlighted a quartet of designs by Pyer Moss' Kerby Jean-Raymond, including a red outfit with guitar-shaped piping from the designer's final collection that focused on the singer Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her significance in rock 'n' roll. Standing near a white Western suit with a swath of monogrammed Kente cloth that Abloh created for Louis Vuitton, Miller mentioned how the design, which referenced his Ghanian heritage, may get a good amount of attention. Drawn as many may be to contemporary designers, there are also Zoot suits that are not to be missed — a 1943 navy wool twill one and a 1940-45 green wool check one from Progress Tailoring Co. are on view. 'In his autobiography, Malcolm X talks about being obsessed with the Lindy Hop at The Savoy. So when he bought his first Zoot suit, he couldn't wait to get it out on the dance floor,' Miller said. The fact that Zoot suits were created at a time of rationing led to the 'Zoot Suit Riots,' after some American servicemen got into a fracas with some Zoot-suited Jooks, Miller said. That illustrates how some of Black fashion and style means one thing to people inside of the community and something else to people outside. It may be part of community building, but also provocatively different for people outside of the community. 'That's another conversation that's happening in the exhibition,' Miller said. View Gallery Launch Gallery: The Met Previews 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style' [PHOTOS] Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
