The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute is set to spotlight an important aspect of menswear with its upcoming exhibition, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. This exhibition, which will open alongside the renowned Met Gala in May, will delve into the history and influence of Black dandyism—an underrepresented but vital part of the sartorial world. The exhibit will not only highlight the legacy of Black men using fashion to define their identity but also showcase the profound impact Black culture has had on contemporary menswear.
Black Dandyism: A Rich Legacy
Black dandyism, an often-overlooked facet of fashion history, represents resilience, resourcefulness, and autonomy. As curator Andrew Bolton notes, the story of Black dandyism has largely been absent from the broader narrative of dandyism itself. The Superfine exhibit will aim to fill this gap, focusing on how Black men have historically used formal attire to assert their power, identity, and place in society. From the early days of the Harlem Renaissance, where zoot suits became iconic, to the present-day influence of modern-day cultural icons, the history of Black dandyism is rich and complex.
The Influence of Black Designers
Recent years have seen an increasing recognition of the contributions of Black designers and style influencers to menswear. The Superfine exhibit will feature works from around 30 contemporary Black designers, including the likes of Virgil Abloh, Wales Bonner, and Pharrell Williams. This recognition comes at a pivotal moment for Black creatives in the fashion world, who often face challenges related to funding, visibility, and support in a competitive industry. As Ames, a Black menswear designer from Virginia, points out, while the Met’s focus on Black dandyism is exciting, the real test will come after the red carpet glamour fades. How will these designers and their contributions be supported and sustained in the long term?
A Critical Moment for Black Menswear
The inclusion of Black dandyism in the Met’s exhibition is more than just an acknowledgment of past fashion trends. It offers a chance to reflect on the role that Black men and designers have played in shaping the current menswear landscape. With the spotlight on Black cultural figures like Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, and Lewis Hamilton, the Met Gala will celebrate not only the history of Black dandyism but also its ongoing influence in modern fashion.
As the fashion world moves forward, it is essential to ensure that Black designers continue to receive the recognition and support they deserve. The Superfine exhibition is a crucial step in making sure that Black dandyism’s contribution to menswear is celebrated and preserved for future generations.